2002 Volvo S60 - Style and Performance Meets Safety and Reliability
Call me fickle, but since the graceful P1800 ended production in the early 70's I haven't fallen head over heals for Volvo styling. That is until recently. If my newfound enthusiasm for their current model line-up is any indication of the demographic Volvo is trying to target, they're on the right track.
Volvo is finally producing cars that are as much about style and performance as they are about safety and reliability. The S60, introduced this spring as a 2002 model, builds on the radically styled S80 sedan and V70 wagon theme. Its lines are fluid and its stance athletic. A protruding grille sits amid large flush headlights that precede a long front hood. The steeply raked windshield melds into an especially attractive arched roof. Muscular folds stretch along the beltline, paying homage to the much-loved 240 series, and end at tastefully detailed tail lamps. Overall, the S60 looks thoroughly modern while maintaining a few classic Volvo styling cues.
Slide behind the wheel and the modern theme continues. Soft-touch plastic covers the attractive dash and console area. The knobs and switches are industrial size and have a quality feel. Although the appointments look durable, attention has been paid to form as well as function. For instance, its brushed aluminum door handles are exquisite bits of automotive art. The simulated wood accents are tasteful and appear authentic, adding warmth to my test car's all-gray interior color scheme. The power adjustable leather seats kept my wife and I comfortable, even on an extended foray to the Okanagan. Things are a little less roomy in the rear for both leg and headroom, but adequate for average size adults. Our rear facing child safety seat, however, hardly fit.
Call me fickle, but since the graceful P1800 ended production in the early 70's I haven't fallen head over heals for Volvo styling. That is until recently. If my newfound enthusiasm for their current model line-up is any indication of the demographic Volvo is trying to target, they're on the right track.
Volvo is finally producing cars that are as much about style and performance as they are about safety and reliability. The S60, introduced this spring as a 2002 model, builds on the radically styled S80 sedan and V70 wagon theme. Its lines are fluid and its stance athletic. A protruding grille sits amid large flush headlights that precede a long front hood. The steeply raked windshield melds into an especially attractive arched roof. Muscular folds stretch along the beltline, paying homage to the much-loved 240 series, and end at tastefully detailed tail lamps. Overall, the S60 looks thoroughly modern while maintaining a few classic Volvo styling cues.
Slide behind the wheel and the modern theme continues. Soft-touch plastic covers the attractive dash and console area. The knobs and switches are industrial size and have a quality feel. Although the appointments look durable, attention has been paid to form as well as function. For instance, its brushed aluminum door handles are exquisite bits of automotive art. The simulated wood accents are tasteful and appear authentic, adding warmth to my test car's all-gray interior color scheme. The power adjustable leather seats kept my wife and I comfortable, even on an extended foray to the Okanagan. Things are a little less roomy in the rear for both leg and headroom, but adequate for average size adults. Our rear facing child safety seat, however, hardly fit.