2014 Volvo S80

Volvo is one of those automakers that rarely makes a splash in the auto scene. Unless it comes out with a concept - a feat in itself - it’s usually content with just sitting out of the spotlight and producing cars that are known for their fuel efficiency and safety.

That being said, we still have to give due attention to the automaker, especially when it decided to roll out a bevy of new models for nearly its entire product line.

One of these models is the new S80, the Swedish automaker’s luxury sedan. Previous versions didn’t really inspire a whole lot of interest from the market, but that doesn’t mean that the new S80 doesn’t come with some interesting new features about it that could make it a safe choice for a luxury model.

We certainly see some merits on the new S80. Sure, there are some things we don’t like about it too, but with a brand like Volvo, the case is always the customer taking what he can get.

Updated 08/02/2013: Volvo announced today that the 2014 S80 luxury sedan starts at $39,900. Click past the jump to see all of the pricing details.

Find out more about the 2013 Volvo S80 after the jump

Exterior

When you’re describing the exterior of the S80, you’re not going to expect any sort of award-winning designs. Volvo has never been the type to wow with aesthetics. Having said that, the new S80 does come with a host of exterior upgrades that makes the sedan look a little more appealing.

Volvo fitted the S80 with new front and rear bumpers that exude a more stretched look that makes the car look wider. We’re not sure what that accomplishes apart from being a little more difficult to park in smaller spaces.

Volvo describes the changes as adding a more sophisticated elegance to the car but we struggle to see where the sophistication is, especially when the automaker retained the old Volvo lights on the rear.

Ultimately, judging the look of a Volvo is like telling a giraffe it’s got a long neck. There are no surprises and nothing that will make you stand up and take attention.