Volvo 850 Review

See also the main fact sheets for the Template:Model.

High Points

 * Timeless elegant styling
 * Solid build quality
 * Robust engines and gearboxes
 * Roomy interior and boot
 * Good roadholding
 * Good fuel economy

Low Points

 * Modest performance from non turbos

Performance and Handling
The 850 was assured and stable on the road. It had a firm ride with good road holding abilities and responsive as well as neutral handling.

Safety
Active safety features
 * ABS
 * Traction Control (standard in T5 AND T5R)

Passive safety features


 * Driver's Airbag
 * Front-passenger Airbag (Not standard in GLE)

Reliability and Maintenance
Oil change intervals

5000 kilometres

Service intervals

10,000 kilometres

Interior and Comforts
The 850 sits 4 adults in comfort and with the 850's low waist line, there are large areas of glass that gives the interior an airy feel. The steering column can be adjusted.

Exterior
Like all other Volvo models particuarly the 850's predecessor, the body has a low waist line with large areas of glass. It kept with Volvo's design theme of being boxy and edgy but the lines have been softened to keep the car more up to date. Alloy wheels are standard starting with the SE moldel which got 15 inch sizes. Both T5 AND T5R models get 16 inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler.

Australian specifications
GLI
 * Air conditioning
 * ABS
 * Driver's Airbag
 * Power Steering

S
 * ABS
 * Air Conditioning
 * Dual Airbags
 * Power Steering

CD
 * ABS
 * Cruise Control
 * Dual Airbags
 * Power Steering

SE
 * 15" Alloy Wheels
 * Air conditioning
 * ABS
 * Cruise Control
 * Dual Airbags
 * Power Steering

GLT
 * 15" Alloy Wheels
 * Air Condioning - Climate Control
 * Cruise Control
 * CD Player
 * Cruise Control

T5
 * 16" Alloy Wheels
 * Air Conditioning - Climate Control
 * Cruise Control
 * Dual Airbags
 * Rear Spoiler
 * Traction Control

T5R
 * 16" Alloy Wheels
 * Air Conditioning - Climate Control
 * Cruise Control
 * CD Player
 * Dual Airbags
 * Rear Spoiler
 * Traction Control

Main Competitors

 * Audi A6
 * BMW 5 Series
 * Saab 900