MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
The S60 is Volvo's mid-size sedan and comes in two distinct flavors-S60 and S60 T5. The S60 is comfortable yet quite sporty, and comes in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive versions, both powered by a 208-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine. Enthusiasts will probably want to opt for the T5, because it includes a 258-hp, 2.4-liter version of 5-cylinder engine, plus upgraded wheels and tires, other mechanical upgrades, and a host of luxury and high-tech extras.
The Haldex all-wheel drive system that's available on the S60 is oriented toward providing strong, steady performance on slippery road surfaces without a loss of traction, sending up to 50 percent of torque to the back wheels only when needed; the system is one of the better systems offered on luxury sedans and brings a confident feel. With either engine, the S60 has more than adequate power, although the T5's engine excels for high-speed passing.
The S60's interior is among the most comfortable of any in its class, with especially good sport seats on either trim, and the instrument panel has a cockpit feel, angling toward the driver; even the base 2.5T model gets wood trim. Back seats are proportioned for adults, and occupants will find plenty of legroom.
Of course the S60 comes with a generous array of safety features, all standard. Electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, front side airbags and side-curtain airbags are all included.
The base 2.5T sedan includes all the features buyers will expect in a luxury car, along with some that are typically optional or not even offered. Dual-zone climate control, sport leather seats and a power sunroof are all standard, and bi-xenon headlamps with Active Bending Light are also included. The performance-oriented T5 model gets firmer shocks and springs, along with flashier 17-inch alloy wheels; it also really steps up the luxury and tech feature list, including such enhancements as premium leather, brushed aluminum door handles and a premium 325-watt, 13-speaker sound system. On the technology front, it also includes rear park assist, an interior air-quality system and a universal garage door opener. Options on the top T5 are limited to a DVD-based navigation system, 18-inch bright alloys with Pirelli summer performance tires and a climate package with rain-sensor wipers.