RoadWorthy!
Functionally dynamic:
2008 Volvo S60 sedan
Continuing evolution of the Volvo sedan brought an exterior freshening last year. A new grille and front bumper design lead the way in the Renaissance of changes to the automaker’s sportiest sedan. The available front spoiler was redesigned for better aerodynamics and a more aggressive appearance. Other S60 models feature a color-coordinated front spoiler, side sills and rear lower bumper. A rear wing spoiler is an available option. Redesigned outside mirrors include integrated turn signals. For added convenience, these automatically flash three times with light pressure on the turn signal stalk.
Available in 2.5T, 2.5T AWD and T5 models, base power for the S60 is a 2.5L five-cylinder turbo motor with an intercooler, while the performance oriented T5 is propelled by a 2.4L five-cylinder engine featuring an exhaust-driven turbo with an intercooler.
Torque is transferred to the pavement via the standard five-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic. A five-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic and Auto-stick manual gear selection system is standard for the T5.
Based on the company's P2 platform that launched the S80 and V70 series, the S60 is a taut sedan that is more responsive when driven hard. In order to highlight the S60’s sporty driving character, the standard chassis was further developed last year in a number of areas. Firmer front and rear shock absorbers and springs increased torsional rigidity by about 25 percent. Anti-roll bars are sturdier and supported by solid bushings. These changes work together to promote a harmonious balance between reassuring road manners and supple ride comfort.
The control hardware setup features MacPherson struts, coil springs, hydraulic shocks and stabilizer bar up front with the rear suspension consisting of an independent multi-link set up with hydraulic shock absorbers, coil springs and a stabilizer bar. The T5 boasts a Sport Suspension system equipped with MacPherson struts with asymmetrically mounted coil springs, hydraulic shocks and a lager 24 mm stabilizer bar in front; multi-link independent suspension with coil springs, hydraulic shocks and stabilizer bar at the rear.
Inside the cabin, cockpit of the S60 optimized the driving experience for the performance-oriented T5 with the addition of the same sporty watch-dial instrument cluster as found on the Volvo S80 sedan. Displays and controls are well thought out. There are two power points for electrical appliances -- one in the dash, the other for rear seat passengers at the back of the center console. Grab handles at all four doors facilitate entry and exit from the vehicle.
Rear seat passengers enjoy comfortable sculptured seating with an armrest and ventilation provided from vents in the floor and B pillar. The split fold-down rear seat maximizes the cargo space available in the deep, square trunk.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 106.9; overall length: 180.2; width: 71.0; height: 56.2
-- all vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 2.4L turbo -- 257 hp at 5,500 rpm and 258 lbs-ft of torque at 2,100-5,000 rpm; 2.5L turbo -- 208 hp at 5,000 rpm and 236 lbs-ft of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm.
Transmission: five-speed automatic or five-speed automatic w/Geartronic.
EPA fuel economy: 19 city/27 hwy. (FWD); 17 city/26 hwy. (AWD); 18 city/26 hwy. (T5).
Cargo capacity: 13.9 cu. ft.
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front head curtain side-impact airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, daytime running lights, dynamic stability control, traction control, engine immobilizer, front fog lights, rear fog light, tire pressure monitoring system, remote keyless entry and central locking system. T5 adds garage door opener.
Optional safety features include rear parking sensors, high intensity headlamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a navigation system.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.
Corrosion: 10-year/100,000 mile.
Roadside assistance: 4-year/unlimited, 24-hour.
Pricing
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Volvo S60 sedan starts from $30,885 for the 2.5T, $32,735 for the 2.5T AWD and $33,985 for the T5. Destination charges add $745.
Copyright 2008 Motor News Media Corporation
