The Volvo S80 II (facelift, 2011) 3.0 T6 AWD Geartronic represents the pinnacle of Volvo’s executive sedan offering during its second-generation run. Produced from 2011 to 2013, this variant sat at the top of the S80 lineup, combining a potent turbocharged and supercharged inline-six engine with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. It was positioned as a direct competitor to luxury sedans from German manufacturers like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, offering a blend of Scandinavian design, safety features, and performance. The facelift brought revised styling cues, updated technology, and refinements to the powertrain, solidifying the S80’s position as a sophisticated and capable grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 T6 (304 Hp) AWD Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 231 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 175.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 253.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 304 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2100-4200 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 2100-4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B6304T4 |
| Engine displacement | 2953 cm3 (180.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1736 kg (3827.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 554 kg (1221.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4851 mm (190.98 in.) |
| Width | 1861 mm (73.27 in.) |
| Height | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2835 mm (111.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
INTRODUCTION
The 2011-2013 Volvo S80 3.0 T6 AWD Geartronic represented a high-water mark for Volvo’s flagship sedan. Built on the Y20 platform (internally designated as the S80 II), the facelifted model benefited from a comprehensive refresh that included exterior styling updates, interior enhancements, and improvements to the powertrain. The T6 designation signified the top-tier engine option, a 3.0-liter inline-six that combined a turbocharger and a supercharger for a broad and potent powerband. The inclusion of all-wheel drive (AWD) provided enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather, aligning with Volvo’s reputation for safety and all-weather capability. This model aimed to provide a luxurious and capable alternative to established German competitors.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 T6 is the Volvo B6304T4 engine, a 2953cc (180.2 cubic inch) inline-six cylinder powerplant. What sets this engine apart is its unique combination of a turbocharger and a supercharger – a configuration Volvo termed “Twin Charge.” The supercharger provides immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag and delivering responsive acceleration. As engine speed increases, the turbocharger takes over, providing sustained power throughout the rev range. This dual-charging system results in a remarkably flat torque curve, peaking at 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) between 2100 and 4200 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and features a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. The six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, developed in-house by Volvo, is designed for smooth and efficient operation. It offers a manual shift mode for greater driver control, though it’s primarily geared towards comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The S80 T6 AWD Geartronic delivers a refined and effortless driving experience. The combined supercharger and turbocharger setup provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes and a responsive feel. While not a sports sedan, the S80 T6 offers ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, inspiring confidence in various road conditions. Compared to the lower-powered 2.5L five-cylinder variants, the T6 offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, though the combined fuel economy of 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) reflects the engine’s substantial power output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 T6 AWD Geartronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and a sunroof. Safety features were, as expected from Volvo, comprehensive, including ABS, traction control, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design emphasized Scandinavian minimalism, with clean lines and high-quality materials. The dashboard layout was intuitive and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but it still offered decent handling characteristics. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance in emergency situations. The S80 T6 typically featured larger brake rotors and calipers compared to the lower-trim models to accommodate the increased weight and performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S80 T6 AWD Geartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, strong engine performance, and comprehensive safety features. However, some critics noted that the S80 lacked the dynamic flair of its German rivals. Compared to the 2.5L models, the T6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but it also came with a higher price tag and increased fuel consumption. Against competitors like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the S80 T6 offered a unique blend of Scandinavian design, safety, and performance, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and practicality over outright sportiness.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 T6 AWD Geartronic, while not a sales leader in its segment, remains a respected and capable luxury sedan. The B6304T4 engine, with its innovative twin-charge technology, is known for its reliability and durability, provided it receives regular maintenance. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with a well-documented service history. Common maintenance items include timing belt replacement (a crucial service for this engine) and regular fluid changes. The S80 T6 represents a final flourish for Volvo’s traditional large sedan, showcasing the brand’s commitment to safety, comfort, and understated elegance.
