2012 Volvo S80: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Volvo S80 is that City Safety becomes standard on every trim. This is a broad safety, technology, and cabin update rather than a full redesign.
About the 2012 Volvo S80
2nd gen, late-cycle update year with a cabin and feature refresh rather than a full redesign.
Volvo positions the S80 as a quietly upscale large sedan built around comfort, calm Scandinavian design, and safety rather than flashy styling. The focus is supportive seats, relaxed long-distance driving, and driver-assistance technology that lowers stress in traffic. Compared with German luxury sedans, the S80 leans less on aggressive performance or prestige and more on an understated, secure feel. Buyers choose it for peace of mind, everyday comfort, and a simple, elegant cabin.
The 2012 S80 is a calm, comfort-focused luxury sedan with two distinct versions. The 3.2 pairs front-wheel drive with a non-turbo six-cylinder engine, while the 300-hp T6 adds turbo power and AWD; both have leather upholstery, a 7-inch Sensus screen, and Classic Walnut Wood trim.
What changed, by category
2012 Volvo S80 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter / 6-Cyl, PZEV, 3.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3300 lb | 3300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.9 cu-ft | 14.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Volvo S80?
The biggest change is standard City Safety on every 2012 S80. This system can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or lessen a low-speed collision.
Was the 2012 Volvo S80 fully redesigned?
No, the 2012 S80 was not fully redesigned. It received a late-cycle update focused on standard safety equipment, the cabin interface, connectivity, and minor styling details.
How is the 2012 Volvo S80 different from the 2011 model?
The 2012 S80 adds standard City Safety, a standard 7-inch Sensus screen, Bluetooth audio streaming, Classic Walnut Wood trim, a revised dashboard and center console, and mirror-mounted LED turn signals.
Did the 2012 Volvo S80 receive new engines?
No, the main engines and six-speed automatic transmissions carry over. The 3.2 uses a non-turbo six-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, while the T6 has a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine and AWD.