ASHEVILLE, N.C. – From the outside, the VT 880 exudes power and performance with its massive front grille and sleek VN-styled headlights. The truck I drove was pimped up with plenty of chrome, aluminum wheels and a red pearl metallic finish.

Inside, the VT 880 has been designed to provide a luxury automobile look and feel and it does just that. From an ergonomics standpoint, the VT 880 is just like its sister truck the VN. The dash is essentially the same and the VT 880 uses the VN shell. The designers’ theme seemed to be “why mess with what’s not broken?” and there’s something to be said for that.

Where the VT differs from the VN is in the interior design packages available. The VT 880 I test drove was spec’d with the Supreme Limited package with Saddle colouring. The colour gave the interior a bright, spacious feel and while some O/Os may be reluctant to spec’ such a light colour, Volvo officials insist the material is easy to clean.

Frank Bio, product manager, trucks, says Volvo consulted with drivers and owner/operators extensively while developing the VT’s interior design packages. The company found drivers wanted to maximize storage space and Volvo complied by adding several new storage areas. Space has been optimized to provide plenty of storage and functionality in every nook and cranny – no space goes wasted in the VT 880. For example, the small area behind the driver’s seat has an area where paperwork or magazines can be stashed out of sight.

The expansive, one-piece windshield provides excellent visibility despite the large hood. And there are numerous controls on the steering wheel allowing the driver to keep both hands on the wheel while driving.

I spent the night in the truck at Asheville, N.C. and was surprised at how comfortable the upper bunk was. With the windows open, there was good airflow through the cab. The night breeze was enough to keep the cab cool even though this was a June night in North Carolina.

The bed was exceptionally comfortable and plenty wide enough for a comfortable rest. It would have been nice to have an alarm clock that was more accessible from the top bunk as I had to perform some minor acrobatics to check the time during the night.

But that wasn’t necessary very often as I slept soundly in the VT 880’s comfortable sleeper despite the hum of the nearby generator.

If you are looking for an interior that has all the comfort, functionality and ergonomics the VN is known for, combined with a luxury car look, than you won’t be disappointed with the new Volvo VT 880.