• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    First impression? Copper! But I am anyway so that doesn't matter! Otherwise, probably a family man. Those in the know, know it is a great car. Those who don't probably just see the Volvo badge and ignore it.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Love it. Think it looks much more expensive than it is. Everyone says how powerful, smooth, comfortable and quiet it is. Excellent car which will do everything you ask of it. Couldn't ask for any more really.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No question. I would go for the T5 next time. But thats just because I am 23 and like fast cars. But 180bhp and 0-60 in 8.5 is plenty fast enough for most. Excellent car. Cannot be faulted. Highly recommended.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Hopefully a T5 when I decide it is time to part with this one. I have thought about a 740i or another Omega but in terms of overall running costs, I think the Volvo wins.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £3,800

    When did you buy the car?

    February 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I believe I did. Excellent car with full Volvo service history and serviced just before I bought it. Mileage was 82k when I purchased it. Basic TS trim is excellent compared to some "high" spec cars I have owned. Reasonably priced and tax included after some negotiation!

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Always liked the look of the car. Looked solid, powerful and sleek. Executive car with equivalent quality of it's German rivals.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very good for a self-employed independent. Only sources cars from main dealers. Buys their cars brought in as part-exchange. Very friendly. No hidden nasties so far.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Smooth as silk. Had one passenger say to me it was like "driving on glass". And this is the basic model! Performance wise, keep the revs up! I hadn't driven a turbo engine until this car so at first I was disappointed. Until I realised I was driving it wrong. Take this thing past 3000rpm and it will take your breath away. The sound at 4-5000rpm is amazing! Steering is not as weighted as you would expect so if you are not used to handling a big car at speed, beware! It will get away from you before you feel it through the steering!

    What's it like to park?

    Not as easy as I thought it would be. My Omega was around the same size as this but much easier to park. It is a big car so be careful. Steering is excellent around carparks. One complaint I had from someone who drove my Omega was how heavy the steering was. I prefer that. But the Volvo is much lighter.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Passenger door has a mind of its own when it comes to locking, when using the central locking; sometimes it will, sometime it won't. Common problem apparently. Does always start first time on normal days but on below freezing mornings, fires first time! Bizarre! Other than that, nothing major.

    What's most practical about your car?

    The boot is huge! I have owned an Omega and only that compared to the storage of these things. Who could lose things in there its so big!

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    I suppose the audio system. Execellent quality and so simple to use. Beats other systems I have used, for ease of use, hands down.