Drivesouth (Enlarge photo)

12/10/2008 09:29. The Volvo S80 is aimed fairly and squarely at those who seek a large, luxurious European saloon, but who do not want to make a song and dance about it.

When it first arrived here in 2007, this all-wheel-drive Swedish alternative to the BMW 5-series, Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6 was offered only in V8 petrol form. Now, though, the range has been extended to include both a diesel and a 3.2-litre straight six petrol variant.

It is the latter, priced at $89,990, which is the subject of this test.

As with all S80 variants, the 3.2 delivers neat if slightly anonymous high-shouldered exterior styling and a spacious and uncluttered cabin.

While the 3.2 is the entry-level S80, standard equipment list includes leather trim, dual-zone climate control, a six-stack MP3-compatible sound system,... // Drivesouth