This latest version of the turbo five is, at the same time, the most civilized and the most powerful one Volvo has produced. Three hundred horsepower is no small amount from 2.5 litres, and that output has been attained through a combination of some traditional approaches - like a whopping big turbocharger - and the application of modern technology such as continuously variable valve timing and two intercoolers. There is no shortage of torque, either, with 295 lb-ft of twist available on the six-speed manual-equipped model. (The five-speed automatic-equipped S60R has but 258 lb-ft. All figures quoted herein are for the manual transmission model.)
What is more impressive is that maximum torque is available as low as 1,950 rpm, right up to 5,250 rpm. That rev range certainly covers most of the everyday usage of the S60R, except of course the initial launch from rest. Assuming non-abusive low-rev use of the clutch, standing starts exhibit little of the dreaded turbo lag that plagues many other engines with one large turbo. Such are the benefits of modern auto electronics. That six-speed box is a close-ratio unit that keeps the revs up into boosted territory. Top gear has about the same overdrive ratio as high gear in the previous five-speed box. Shifting feel is very linear and positive, a big improvement over previous manuals from Volvo, although a little wider lateral spacing in the shift gate would minimize incidents of shifting from 2nd to 5th and the like.