ROAD TEST: Volvo S60 T5 R-Design Edition

ROAD TEST by Nick Fletcher

Volvo S60 T5 R-Design Edition

VOLVO has completely changed the public perception of their brand with a range of new models encompassing svelte style and lots of technology and the latest is the just-launched S60.

The new S60 is priced from €44,534 (£37,935) and packages a 250 hp 2.0-litre 4-cylinder power unit with signature Volvo styling cues to reveal a smart and sophisticated premium saloon. Built in the United States, the S60 is the first new-model Volvo with no diesel engine option.

My test model was the T5 R-Design Edition and  it ably demonstrated it was the perfect premium, mile-munching saloon. With a top speed of 233 kph (145 mph) the T5 passes the benchmark 100 kph in just 6.3 seconds. Average fuel economy is 13.1 kpl(37 mpg) with emissions of  155 g/km.

Driving the front wheels through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with paddle shifts, a large Tesla style portrait touch screen offers most of the controls – including an array of connectivity options – and settings including the different drive modes. The dynamic mode really sharpens up the S60’s responses without loss of ride comfort. The shortest of gaps in traffic offers safe overtaking and on twisting country roads the car’s tight handling capability is demonstrated to great effect.

Standard fare across the range includes such items as dual zone climate, Nappa part-leather sports seats, heated front seats, diamond cut wheels, all-round parking sensors, voice activated control system and LED lighting.

Options on the test car were a powered glass tilt and slide panoramic sunroof with sun curtain, heated front screen, larger alloys and superb and almost iridescent Fusion Red metallic paintwork. This package adds €3,375 (£2,875) to the standard list price.

The range at the moment consists of one trim level – R-Design Edition – and just one version, the T5 front drive automatic. Soon to follow will be an all-wheel-drive option, an R-Design Plus entry version and luxurious Inscription Plus trim. In addition to the T5 engine a T8 twin-engine plug-in hybrid is planned with prices starting at around €57,524 (£49,000).

Volvo has a smart, stylish and very sophisticated saloon in the new S60. It continues their success in transforming the brand from solid, dependable workhorse to a desirable premium motoring brand.

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

Facts At A Glance

Model: Volvo S60 T5 R-Design Edition

Engine: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Performance: 0 – 100 kph 6.3 seconds, top speed 233 kph (145 mph)

Economy: 13.1 kpl(37 mpg)

Emissions: 155g/km

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Nick Fletcher

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