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2006 Volvo S80 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.46
Based on 17 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2006 Volvo S80 is a mid-size luxury sedan representing Volvo's commitment to safety and comfort. Part of the second generation S80, it boasted a sleek design and a comfortable ride. Key trims included the base 2.5T, T6, and V8 models. New, the S80 ranged from approximately $38,000 to $48,000. It stood out for its understated elegance and emphasis on occupant protection, a Volvo hallmark.
The Good

The 2006 Volvo S80 offers a comfortable and safe driving experience. Its performance is adequate, with the T6 and V8 models providing more power. It is known for its comfortable ride and ergonomic design. Practical buyers will appreciate its safety features and decent value, while emotional buyers will be drawn to its understated luxury and Scandinavian design.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2006 Volvo S80 include potential electronic issues, particularly with the infotainment system and sensors. Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission and suspension components. Rust can be a concern in colder climates. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid costly repairs on this model.

2006 Volvo S80: Quick Overview

Key specifications for the 2006 Volvo S80:

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5T: 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5
    • T6: 2.9L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6
    • V8: 4.4L Naturally Aspirated V8
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.5T: 208 hp
    • T6: 268 hp
    • V8: 311 hp
  • Fuel Economy (City/Highway): (Estimates vary depending on source and driving conditions)
    • 2.5T: Approximately 20/29 mpg
    • T6: Approximately 17/25 mpg
    • V8: Approximately 16/24 mpg
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.5T: Approximately 7.5-8.0 seconds
    • T6: Approximately 6.5-7.0 seconds
    • V8: Approximately 6.0 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Generally not recommended for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • 2.5T (Base): Leather upholstery, power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, alloy wheels, and Volvo's standard safety features (ABS, stability control, airbags).
    • T6: Adds more power with the twin-turbo engine, upgraded interior trim, and potentially additional features like a sunroof or upgraded audio.
    • V8: Includes the V8 engine, premium leather, wood trim, upgraded wheels, and potentially navigation system.

2006 Volvo S80 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Volvo
Model S80
Trim -
Style All-Wheel Drive 2.5-T
Type Sedan
Category Mid-Size Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Sweden
Manufacturing City TORSLANDA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 3691 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine B5254T2
Engine Size 2.5L
Engine Cylinders 5
Transmission 5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $37,585
Invoice Price $35,365
Delivery Charges $695

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What Problems Does the 2006 Volvo S80 Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2006 Volvo S80 include issues with the electronic throttle system (ETS), which can cause reduced engine power or stalling. Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, particularly with rough shifting or slipping. Suspension components, such as the struts and control arms, can wear out prematurely, leading to a less comfortable ride and increased noise.
Electrical issues are also not uncommon, including problems with the infotainment system, sensors (like the mass airflow sensor), and the climate control system. Water leaks, particularly around the sunroof (if equipped), can lead to mold and mildew issues.
Recall information should be checked with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) using the VIN of the specific vehicle. Common areas for recalls on this era of Volvo vehicles include fuel pump relays, airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the complexity of the vehicle's electronics and the potential for costly repairs as the car ages. Regular and preventative maintenance is crucial to mitigate these risks. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters and road salt.

How long will the 2006 Volvo S80 last?

A 2006 Volvo S80, with proper maintenance, can realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 15-20 years of service life. Longevity heavily depends on diligent maintenance habits, including timely oil changes, fluid flushes, and addressing minor issues promptly.
Over time, common wear items like suspension components, brakes, and exhaust systems will need replacement. Electronic systems can become more prone to failure as the car ages. Early detection and repair are key to extending the vehicle's life. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
JennyMac
This is a great reliable car, I had mine for 9 years and it never left me stranded. Volvo's are known for their reliability and that's why I bought another one!
Auntie Pamela
This was a good purchase, great suspension, smooth ride, well crafted luxury appointments, & solid composition.
Auntie Pamela
This car suits my needs. Quiet ride & luxury features, handles well & feels like a quality vehicle.
Negative Owner Reviews
kcoleman
Nice looking. Smooth ride on the highway. Quiet. Nice features. I had the AWD model and it averaged about 16 MPG. On the highway I could get around 25MPG. Not real smooth acceleration, but I can't complain. I traded it in for a Subaru Outback, AWD and gets 21 MPG City and 31 MPG highway. Not sure how any one can say they got 30 MPG on the highway with the S80, especially if it was AWD. There is just no way!

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Volvo S80 came equipped with a range of tech, entertainment, and safety features for its time. Standard features included a premium audio system (often with a CD player and available subwoofer), dual-zone climate control, and power accessories. Optional features included a navigation system (often CD-based), sunroof, upgraded audio systems (like Dolby Pro Logic), and rear parking sensors.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars, but the S80 did offer cruise control. The focus was primarily on safety.
Safety features were a Volvo strength. Standard features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (DSTC), traction control, and a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags. Volvo's Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) was also standard, designed to reduce the risk of neck injuries in rear-end collisions.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific scores. The S80 generally performed well in crash tests, reflecting Volvo's commitment to safety. Remember to search for these specific reports using the 2006 Volvo S80 model year.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Stone
Silver Metallic
Titanium Gray Pearl
Midnight Blue Pearl
Willow Green Metallic
Cranberry Pearl
White
Graphite Metallic
Quartz Sand Metallic
Interior Colors
Beige
Black

2006 Volvo S80 Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2006 Volvo S80 ranged from approximately $38,000 to $48,000 depending on the trim and options. As a used car, prices vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, potentially less for high-mileage or poorly maintained examples.
Depreciation is considerable given the car's age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance history, mileage, and geographical location. Lower mileage and a well-documented service history will command a higher price. The V8 model may retain slightly more value due to its rarity.

2006 Volvo S80 Cost of Ownership

Owning a 2006 Volvo S80 can be moderately costly. Insurance rates will be moderate, generally comparable to other luxury sedans of its age. Fuel costs depend on the engine, with the V8 being the thirstiest. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average, particularly if using a Volvo specialist mechanic. Parts can be more expensive than those for domestic brands. Long-term ownership requires budgeting for potential repairs, making it less economical than a comparable mainstream sedan.

2006 Volvo S80 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity 18 gallons
City Mileage 19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 27 miles/gallon

2006 Volvo S80 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2006 Volvo S80 Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2007-03-29
Recall no. 07e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2006-10-03
Recall no. 06v375000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Vehicles Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." THE Label Denoting THE Tire and Loading Pressure Information IS Incorrect.
Consequence A Misprinted Label Would Lead TO Improper Vehicle Loading Specifications or Tire Inflation Which Could Result IN A Tire Failure, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Mail THE Correct Labels Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 18, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. 161.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Recall date 2010-11-08
Recall no. 10v566000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling Certain Vehicles Equipped With Garmin 760 Portable Global Positioning System (Gps) Units Because THE Batteries ON Those Units MAY Overheat.
Consequence AN Overheated Battery Could Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy Volvo Advises Owners TO Please Stop Using THE Garmin Portable GPS Device Immediately, and Visit THE Garmin Website TO Determine IF Their Unit IS Affected. THE Unit's Battery Will BE Replaced With A NEW Battery and A Spacer Will BE Inserted ON Top OF THE Battery Next TO THE Pcb. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON November 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Garmin AT 866-957-1981 or Visit Garmin's Website AT Www.garmin.com/Nuvibatterypcbrecall.
Notes Volvo Safety Recall NO. R231.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-09-30
Recall no. 21v766000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo Car Usa, LLC (Volvo Car) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2006 S80 and 2001-2009 S60 Vehicles. THE Driver's AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode During Deployment, DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR Bag, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed November 29, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Car Customer Service AT 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's Number FOR This Recall IS R10125.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2006 Volvo S80 Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Volvo S80 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Volvo S80 Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2006 Volvo S80 competed with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and Lexus GS. In terms of performance, the BMW and Mercedes generally offered sportier handling, while the Lexus emphasized comfort and reliability. The Audi A6 provided a blend of luxury and performance.
Features were comparable across the segment, though Volvo prioritized safety. Reliability is where the S80 can lag behind the Lexus GS and potentially some of the German rivals. The S80's price point, both new and used, is often lower than the German competitors.
Similar alternatives include the Acura TL, which offers a balance of reliability, performance, and features at a competitive price. The Infiniti M35 is another option, known for its sporty handling and distinctive styling. For superior reliability, the Lexus GS is a compelling alternative, though it may command a higher price. If sporty driving dynamics are a priority, a BMW 5 Series or Audi A6 might be a better choice, understanding that maintenance costs could be higher.

Ranks #1928 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0β˜…)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0β˜…)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0β˜…)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0β˜…)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0β˜…)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0β˜…)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0β˜…)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0β˜…)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0β˜…)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0β˜…)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0β˜…)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0β˜…)
1928 2006 Volvo S80 (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Volvo S80 a Good Sedan?

The 2006 Volvo S80 is a decent choice for someone prioritizing safety, comfort, and understated luxury on a budget. It's ideal for those who appreciate Volvo's design philosophy and aren't seeking the most exhilarating driving experience. It's worth buying as a used car *if* you find one in excellent condition with a well-documented maintenance history. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential. The T6 or V8 models offer more power, but the 2.5T can be a more fuel-efficient and reliable option. Be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs compared to mainstream brands. Avoid examples with significant rust or signs of neglect.

2006 Volvo S80 Owner Reviews

4.46
Consumer Rating, Based on 17 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Sgt Jim, Proud Veteren. on March 18, 2021

I love the safety and reliability of Volvos.

I have own 14 of them since 1967. I started all 4 of my children in Volvos . Volvos have saved my and my sister's life at least once, as well as protecting my wife of 45 years when her Volvo was totaled as the result of a neighbor running a stop sign.

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JennyMac on July 7, 2018

Most reliable car I've owned. Great car.

This is a great reliable car, I had mine for 9 years and it never left me stranded. Volvo's are known for their reliability and that's why I bought another one!

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Auntie Pamela on September 27, 2017

Enjoying driving this luxury car, handles well!

This was a good purchase, great suspension, smooth ride, well crafted luxury appointments, & solid composition.

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Auntie Pamela on September 27, 2017

New Volvo owner. Smooth ride w/good suspension

This car suits my needs. Quiet ride & luxury features, handles well & feels like a quality vehicle.

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RonnieMac on September 3, 2017

Surprised by performance

Having never owned a Volvo before I hesitantly purchased the Volvo S80. This car rocks! It has a 2.5T Turbo which kicks in when the accelerator is pushed. The S80 is a heavy car with great safety ratings but still manages to average over 23 mpg and can keep up with any car on the road. Excellent handling. The steering on this car it tight. Made by Volvo the engine will easily last 300k miles with scheduled maintenance.

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bizydad on July 1, 2017

Very reliable, car. Feel safe in it.

This car has plenty of leg room. Love the features. Cold A/C with the well-designed ventilation system. Great storage space in the trunk.

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Volvo3 on June 9, 2017

Great car to have

Very reliable Great car 2nd one i have owned High school kids wod love it Parents safe comfortable car Great car to have Priced right

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northender on March 9, 2017

2006 S80 AWD TurboVolvo Maintained - Now for Scrap

I purchased a 2006 Volvo S80 AWD (certified used with 20k miles on it at purchase) and always kept it up through Volvo shops. I purchased the car due to its marketed reliability. I had the radiator replaced 4 months ago and now at 140,000 miles the engine failed and it will cost almost $7k to replace. The recommendation from Volvo is to scrap the car. Had I known I was going to only have the car for 140k miles I would have looked elsewhere.

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Becmeister on August 27, 2016

Still going strong

I'm the original owner with 210k miles. Very reliable, hoping for another 200k. Well maintained, dig it!

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kcoleman on October 14, 2011

Gas guzzler

Nice looking. Smooth ride on the highway. Quiet. Nice features. I had the AWD model and it averaged about 16 MPG. On the highway I could get around 25MPG. Not real smooth acceleration, but I can't complain. I traded it in for a Subaru Outback, AWD and gets 21 MPG City and 31 MPG highway. Not sure how any one can say they got 30 MPG on the highway with the S80, especially if it was AWD. There is just no way!

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehiclesβ€”starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.