New Volvo S60 & V60

Used to seeing concepts watered down for production, we’re happy to see Volvo sticking to their guns for the new S60. The production version of Volvo’s mid-sized exec, revealed here ahead of its Geneva debut, looks remarkably similar to the S60 Concept the Swedish brand wheeled out at the 2009 Detroit show.

Among the distinctive cues carried over is the XC60 style front end, the wavy signature line on its profile and those inverted L-shaped taillamps, but the basic shape is recognisable as an S60. Volvo says that “the sculpted hood and the short overhangs front and rear also emphasize the sports-car feel.” We’re not sure about the “sports-car feel” but this S60 does have presence. It has grown is size too; longer, wider and with a longer wheelbase, but is less than 45kg heavier than the current car. 

Engine choices include a twin-scroll turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with 300 bhp and 440 Nm. Paired to a new six-speed auto (faster shifts) and Haldex AWD, this S60 T6 does 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 6.5 seconds. Of course following the common trend of ‘engine downsizing’, there will be a new 2.0-litre GDTi engine, which is good for 203 bhp and 300 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm.

Three suspension setups will be available: Base, Dynamic and Four-C Adaptive. The optional Dynamic uses stiffer springs and bushings, retuned dampers and thicker piston rods, while Four-C adaptive damping aims to provide the best of all worlds. 

On the safety front, Advanced Stability Control employs a new roll angle sensor to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. Also debuting is Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake, which can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the S60, warn the driver, before automatically apply full braking power if he/she does not respond in time. This system works at speeds up to 35 km/h. This is a development of City Safety, which works the same way, but for vehiclese D series that depends on diesel.

Volvo V60 R-Design Package 

Volvo will debut an R-Design package for the S60 sedan and Euro-only V60 station wagon Paris auto show. While there are no engine upgrades, the cars do benefit from sportier suspension tuning and some visual upgrades; the result is somewhere between the regular cars and Volvo’s old R models, which never really delivered on their sporty promise. There are four petrol and two diesel options in the UK.

 Looks wise, R-Design cars have a redesigned front valance while a distinctive diffuser houses twin tailpipes. Also included are unique five-spoke 18-inch Diamond cut wheels. Inside, a special leather/textile upholstery is available in off-black and ceramic light, or in all-black, both with contrasting stitch. The cabin also features an R-Design steering wheel, gear knob, sports pedals and floor mats.


The changes aren’t just skin deep. A strut brace under the bonnet stiffens up the structure and the rear features monotube dampers. Unlike twin-tube dampers, the monotube system features compression and return damping via the same valve. This gives shorter, faster fluid flow, which means faster response. The front and rear springs have been shortened by 15 mm and spring stiffness is 15% higher compared to the standard-fit dynamic chassis.

 “This makes the car easier to control and reduces any tendency to lurch. This is an area that requires true fingertip sensitivity in order to find the right blend of dynamics and comfort. If you go too far the car feels bumpy even on smooth surfaces. We’ve invested a lot of time and effort in finding the ideal balance,” said Stefan Sällqvist, manager of vehicle dynamics at Volvo Cars.