In a few words, this S60 is the hottest and coolest Volvo since the P1800, at least in my books. As we move inboard, the sight is also familiar but slightly more osé. The dashboard flows with design and functionality, however with a not inconsiderable cluster of tiny buttons for audio and other controls smack in the middle of the centre stack. They require a fair amount of attention at first, but can be tamed; once most of the settings are set, the redundant steering wheel-mounted controls become the ideal tools.
Volvo is also famous for having excellent seats. This has been the case for the better part of the last few decades. In fact, the S60's perches are nearly identical to those found in a first-generation XC70, which they themselves are an evolution of the 850's, which arrived in 1993. Yes, they are comfortable, orthopaedic even. The rear bench is also cozy, ideal for two adults.
Styling is one way to “naughtify” a car but once aboard, the car has to perform. I am extremely pleased to report that the new S60 delivers the goods. The first points that jumped out at me are how extremely agile, lithe and nimble the car feels. Actually, I found that it drives as the C30 and S40 should, but they don't.
And that's my point. Volvos have never been lively or “alive” on the road. Compared to all other Volvos I have ever driven, this one carves corners, reacts and dashes around like an Olympic athlete. Number one reason for this is that steering assistance is adjustable, I love this! Even in its firmest setting, effort is light at low speeds and firms up imperceptibly at speed. For my tastes, medium proposed the ideal compromise. One more thing about steering: The turning radius is super-sized. Be mindful when negotiating tight areas.
In the engine bay, the T6 has got it where it counts. The turbocharged 3.0L inline-sixer pumps out 300 ponies and 325 lb-ft of torque. Between its all-wheel drive and motor, a 6-speed autobox carries the duty of making things happen. The 1,700-kg (3,740-lb) car launches itself to 100 km/h in just over 6 seconds, less than a half-second slower than the previous S60 R. Here's hoping that the next R pumps out at least 375 hp, should it ever come... Passing manoeuvres are child's play: the box drops a pair of gears and wham-o! You're gone!
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| As we move inboard, the sight is also familiar but slightly more osé. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Volvo is also famous for having excellent seats. This has been the case for the better part of the last few decades. In fact, the S60's perches are nearly identical to those found in a first-generation XC70, which they themselves are an evolution of the 850's, which arrived in 1993. Yes, they are comfortable, orthopaedic even. The rear bench is also cozy, ideal for two adults.
Styling is one way to “naughtify” a car but once aboard, the car has to perform. I am extremely pleased to report that the new S60 delivers the goods. The first points that jumped out at me are how extremely agile, lithe and nimble the car feels. Actually, I found that it drives as the C30 and S40 should, but they don't.
And that's my point. Volvos have never been lively or “alive” on the road. Compared to all other Volvos I have ever driven, this one carves corners, reacts and dashes around like an Olympic athlete. Number one reason for this is that steering assistance is adjustable, I love this! Even in its firmest setting, effort is light at low speeds and firms up imperceptibly at speed. For my tastes, medium proposed the ideal compromise. One more thing about steering: The turning radius is super-sized. Be mindful when negotiating tight areas.
In the engine bay, the T6 has got it where it counts. The turbocharged 3.0L inline-sixer pumps out 300 ponies and 325 lb-ft of torque. Between its all-wheel drive and motor, a 6-speed autobox carries the duty of making things happen. The 1,700-kg (3,740-lb) car launches itself to 100 km/h in just over 6 seconds, less than a half-second slower than the previous S60 R. Here's hoping that the next R pumps out at least 375 hp, should it ever come... Passing manoeuvres are child's play: the box drops a pair of gears and wham-o! You're gone!
 |
| The turbocharged 3.0L inline-sixer pumps out 300 ponies and 325 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |