By Asian Journal Auto Editor
Now under the ownership of Chinese automaker Geely, Swedish premium carmaker, Volvo has come out with some wonderfully executed vehicles in the last few years. Case in point is the lasted generation of the S60 sedan. This premium sporty four-door sedan has svelte, sensuous coupe styling. With its strong rear shoulders, muscular fenders and a purposeful stance, the S60 looks every bit the blueblood Euro sedan. The interiors are also beautifully finished. For now, the S60 arrives in three trim levels. The Momentum starts at $42,400 with front-wheel-drive, and at $47,400 with all-wheel-drive. The AWD-only R-Design (As tested) starts at $52,400, and the top-line Inscription at $53,900. Very reasonable pricing in my opinion for this superlative luxury brand, but beware as options do inflate the prices somewhat.
All S60 models use a 2.0L engine. In the entry-level FWD Momentum, it’s turbocharged and puts out 250 horsepower. In the all-wheel-drive models, it’s both turbocharged and supercharged, making 316 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission is a smooth eight speed automatic unit. Volvo aims that nothing larger than a four-cylinder engines and is wan tall its vehicle to offer electric versions.
Our tester was a S60 T6 with the R-Design package featuring: gloss black detailing, and a unique lower fascia, sports suspension along with 18-inch wheels, specific body styling, R-Design seats and paddle-shifters. Also added is unique R-Design front grille, full LED headlamps proximity-sensing keyless access, special R-Design metal sill mouldings, R-Design carpeted floor mats, a three-spoke R-design leather-wrapped steering wheel, R-Design metal pedals, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, paddle shifters for the eight-speed automatic gearbox, driver selectable low, medium and high personal power steering settings. The Interior features: Comfort, Eco or Dynamic adjustable drive mode settings, four-zone automatic climate control with rear controls, navigation, metal mesh decor inlays, a black headliner, and Nappa leather upholstery with raised contrast stitching. Options include: 19-inch wheels, Nappa leather, a Bowers and Wilkins audio system, (As fitted) and Volvo’s semi-autonomous Pilot Assist driving system.
Interior wise, a fanatic attention to detail is evident with the sleek-and-minimalistic Scandinavian design, Meanwhile, I still don’t know why or how only the Swedes seem to make the most comfortable and supportive car seats on the planet! The rear seats and cabin is equally well kitted out Up front; Well thought out design dominates with a wonderful integration of metal, aluminum, and premium leather. There is a crisply styled dash and instrument controls. The cabin has got to be simply one of the best in its class in terms of luxury, design and comfort.
The S60 does not have a lot of buttons or switches on the dash, instead there is an as standard, Volvo’s Sensus Connect infotainment with its nine-inch, portrait touch screen. which you swipe sideways or up-and-down to access almost everything —It will no doubt appeal to minimalists, but others may wish for the simplicity and ease of proper buttons or dial for quickly needed things like heated seats and climate operation. However there is voice control for some features
The S60 and its sibling V60 wagon are the first models offered under the company’s new Care by Volvo subscription plan. For a two year monthly fee when you order a Volvo you get all maintenance paid for and a set of winter tires, and during the second year, you can trade for a new vehicle and plan if you don’t want to go the whole two years. Safety has always been a high point on Volvo’s and the S60 does not disappoint. The City Safety system reduces the severity of rear-ends collisions at low speeds, the system sends a warning. Ignore it, and the car will brake hard to a complete stop.
On the road the S60 is a fast and very efficient luxury sedan. The S60 engine is a smooth-and-powerful engine, and combined with precise eight-speed automatic transmission offers strong acceleration. A firm, well-weighted steering, and quick response also inspire confident spirited handling. The ride is also well composed and road bumps and potholes are muted. If you like to drive hard, the S60’s Dynamic Mode, tightens up the steering, open up the exhaust and transmission offers quicker, more aggressive shifting. It is a supremely well-balanced sedan. There is, as standard an auto engine start/stop feature that helps to reduce emissions and fuel consumption. The T6 AWD offers estimated 10.9 city and 7.7 highway (L/100/km). Volvo builds probably the safest cars in the world and the S60 is no exception. It is capable alternative to German and British luxury sedans. Wonderful inside and out in very way. Highly recommended.
2019 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Base price: $52,400 plus options. www.Volvo.ca
