Auto review by Veeno Dewan

The Volvo S60 is the Swedish automotive maker’s entry-level compact sedan. It is a performance driven car with a three-box design with a slew of high-tech features as standard, plus the availability of hybrid technology in the form of electric motors and a battery.
As Volvo pushes to an all-electric range, the S60 receives the B5 (As tested.) and B6 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engines (previously T5 and T6) paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system to make 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque. The more powerful B6 is now a single enlarged turbo unit with 295 horsepower, with torque at 310 lb-ft.
The 2022 Volvo S60 range features. Momentum, Inscription , R-design, and the performance Polestar Engineered versions. We tested the upscale R-design model. There is also a plug-in hybrid S60 T8 eAWD with the 315-hp turbo/supercharged 2.0L powering the front wheels, while an electric motor powers the rears. All S60s are equipped with an eight-speed Geartronic Automatic Transmission which also offers paddle shifters in the R-Design model for those wanting sportier shifts. R-Design versions also arrive with lowered suspension, adaptive dampers, and manual mode transmissions. The S60 is a very handsome looking car for sure with its sleek, understated design that oozes class and good taste
The R-Design offers such features as Glossy R-Design black inserts for the front, lower and outer grilles. Dual Integrated Tailpipes, LED Headlights with Active Bending Lights, Colour coordinated door handles with Illumination and Puddle lights, 18’’ 5-Double Spoke Matt Graphite Diamond Cut Alloy wheel, Black Rear View Mirror Caps with High Gloss Decor Side Windows. Optional 19- and 20-inch R-Design wheels are also available.to give the S60 R-Design a powerful, dynamic look.
R-design interiors offer a cool Metal Mesh Aluminium décor inlays, Charcoal headlining and Contour seats upholstered in Leather/Open grid textiles. The cabin also offers a: 12-speaker, Harman/Kardon, Surround Sound, 12.3-inch, Colour, Touchscreen, Voice Activating System for Audio, Phone, Navigation, AppleCarplay, Android, USB, Bluetooth, AM/FM, Satellite Radio, Hard Drive, In-car WiFi Network, Wireless Charging Pad, Head-up Display and more.
Some R-Design options include Climate Package: Headlamp Cleaners, Heated Rear Seat, Heated Steering Wheel Advanced Package: Head Up Display, Intellisafe Pilot Assist, 360° camera, 12V Outlet in Luggage Area, Air Quality with Advanced Air Cleaner.
Volvo’s interior design is a study in precision, craftsmanship and restraint. There is fastidious attention to details, the all-digital dash is cool, and the mesh metal inlay adds a touch of class. The large Sensus tablet-like infotainment display in the center of the dash is still a standout, but fiddly to operate. What is very impressive is the S60’s interior packaging – comfortable Nappa leather seats, plenty of legroom and headroom front and rear. The back seat meanwhile can accommodate 6-footer plus passengers with ease, trunk space is about adequate at 392 L (13.8 ft³).
Safety is high on the Volvo – as to be expected from a company known for building the safest vehicles in the world. The S60 has multiple airbags, anti-lock disc brakes and traction/ stability systems, plus an array of driver safety and assistive technologies. The S60 comes with automatic emergency braking that detects pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals, making it one of the more comprehensive systems on the road. Blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control are optional-and so is Pilot Assist, Volvo’s driver-assistance system.
On the road, the S60, feels rigid and composed thanks to its S90 and XC90 underpinnings. The power delivery comes fast from the mid-range and the driver is rewarded with a nice smooth progression of torque. You can also play with the various performance settings. I liked the taut, athletic ride, it is not too firm or soft and the Volvo exhibited crisp handling, and precise linear steering. Body roll is minimal thanks to the light weight and great engineering. The All-Wheel Drive provided exceptional road grip, while the suspension proved adept at handling all manner of road surfaces.
The S60 proved to be a fast, satisfying car to drive and is a fundamentally delightful car to own. High points are the wonderful Scandinavian-inspired cabin, soft and supportive seats, and multiple upscale features as standard. Lows are few but include an unintuitive infotainment system.
However, It is a good alternative to the German competition it takes aim at. Every Volvo is special and the S60 is no exception. The S60 should return a fuel efficiency of 8.3 L/100km highway and urban combined.
With attractive styling inside and out, a decent level of performance and motoring confidence, and competitive pricing, the S60 should be on the shortlist of those seeking a superb entry-level luxury sedan.

2022 Volvo S60 B5 AWD R-Design: from, $45,450. S60 B5 R- Design – $52,550 Plus Freight & PDI $2,015.
More info at www.Volvo.ca