2003 Volvo S80 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.34/5 Average
34 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Only minor changes are in store for Volvo's flagship sedan. Rain-sensing wipers and On-Call Plus telematics are newly available features, and two new colors, Titanium Grey and Ruby Red, dress up the exterior.

Pros:
  • Loaded with outstanding safety innovations and features, impressively fast in T6 trim, spacious backseat.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 34.00
  • Volvo S80 T6 - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    The Volvo S80 T6 has been a joy to drive. The T6 provides power for that quick acceleration whenever needed, and a smooth and comfortable ride cruising along the highway. A sound system that is second to none, and innovative safety features make the S80 the smart alternative to more expensive BMW 5-series or the overrated Audi 6.

  • OLD VOLVO OWNERS-Your Reward is Here - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    This is a fabulous automobile and quite the sleeper. It is a big sedan in the Euopean sedan tradition that uses space rather than wastes it. Performance is on par with sedans costing $15-20K more. And what boy racer in a Honda would ever expect a Volvo to blow right by them? The car handles the twisty stuff with sure-footed comfort. This is my 5th Volvo and my favortie by far. So far we only have 3,000 mi on it with no negatives. I have paid my dues with old Volvos. I am a fan. This is my reward! A pleasure to drive.

  • Acceleration Hesitation - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    We purchased the car for its safety performance and chose the T6 model for the performance and added features. The car is fantastic except for one problem: hesitation during acceleration. The car hesitiates between 1st and 2nd gear under moderate to heavy acceleration. After four trips to the dealer I discovered the hesitation problem is designed into the car to save the tranmission. Volvo is working on a software patch, however, I was told the acceleration hesitation will always be noticed. Why make twin turbo model if the throttle is cut during acceleration?

  • Great ride - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    Best car ever had,worst dealership!nothing major yet,replaced the oxygen sensor,4 times the headlight bulbs ,trunk lock.Very fast break rotors replacement and they(the dealer) wouldnt turn the rotors.Radios AM very poor reception,problem with the A/C but it got fixed during warranty and knock on wood warrantys expired and hope not to see a mechanic for a long time.

  • S-80 T-6 Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    I bought this vehicle in late 2002 as a replacement for the exact same vehicle (including color) in a 2001 model. The 2001 was terrific and this one has been even better. I bought it in CA but live in TX now. The drive across country was very comfortable and I take this car whenever I have to go on long trips. This is my NINTH Volvo since 1974 - but Ive had lots of other vehicles as well. The lease just expired on this one but I bought it and will keep it for a long time to come. Volvo of Orange County CA is the best dealer coast to coast. Ive had Volvos from Boston to Houston to California but V.O.C. is the best!

  • Mixed Results with the Volvo S80 - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    Overall, a good car but with some notable problems. The car failed to start when almost brand new and the dealer asked if I had another set of Volvo keys on the same keychain! It appears that their keys contain a microchip that has caused starting problems if together(this was not the problem in my case and they couldnt diagnose the cause). The dealer never mentioned this problem when I bought the car. Windshield wipers are weak and the car is not nearly as good as my old 1997 Saab 9000 in the snow. I have had difficulty making it up some very low inclines with very little snow on the ground. Comfortable seating in front and back.

  • Headlights crack - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    I do love my S80. I have two complaints. I need more lumber support, and the headlights keep cracking!!! I had one crack in April, and figured somebody hit it. The other one cracked two days ago. That time it was just parked in the sun. If you have had this problem, or any other, seriously, dont just post to this board. Go to WWW.NHTSA.COM and enter a complaint. If that transmission slips and the brakes fail, THEY need to know about it.

  • Second Volvo S80 - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    I bought this car for my wife in December of 1999 and just traded it in for her second. Awesome drive especially in snowy weather. I own many luxury and exotic cars, this being my second favorite sedan next to my 2000 Rolls Royce Park Ward. Volvo is amazing, they have it all safety, performance, technology, and in recent years since they removed themselves from the boxy look, elegant style. Volvo has always been popular at country clubs and with opulent drivers and I would take this over the Acura 3.5RL and Lexus GS300 anytime. An alternative to this car is the Jaguar S- Type although its rear wheel drive does not handle well in inclement weather.

  • Good for the money! - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    I have owned the S80T since Aug 2003 and have mixed feelings on the car. Decent acceleration & Braking. However, the turbo lag can be somewhat annoying. Love the Stepronic like shifter. The interior of the car is cheap. Tons of plastic. Volvo saved a ton going this route. If you have experienced a BMW, Lexus, or MB, you will be dissapointed. The main reason I bought the car was for the seats. These seats are incredable! The Stereo rocks when playing CD s. However, the AM radio stinks. Several trips to the dealer to solve the ear popping crackling and interference have failed to solved the prob. Good Performance, Cheap interior, Great seats. 15K less than a BMW.

  • I like my S80 - 2003 Volvo S80
    By -

    After 7 months, I have been impressed by this car. Very comfortable to drive. The exterior looks set this car apart since it is not another "me-too" look. Interior is well laid out and seats are very comfortable - even on long drives.

Volvo S80 Reviews By Year:
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