Vehicle Type: Luxury/Sport Sedan
Price as tested: $35,485

Pros:
Powerful Engine
Standard Safety Features
Sleek Styling
Handling
Available AWD

Cons:
I’m thinking….

Overview:

The S 60 2.4T is an entry level luxury sports sedan. Based on the upscale S80 platform the S60 includes the usual long list of Volvo safety features and the driving excitement of a 197 HP turbo engine. Competitors include the 3 series BMW, the Lexus IS 300 and the Infinity G35. There are 4 trim levels to choose from starting with the base 2.4. Standard equipment includes dual zone manual climate control, stability and traction control, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, side impact airbags whiplash protection and remote keyless entry. A 100 watt premium sound system with cassette and an in-dash CD is standard on all S60’s. Prices start at $26,370. The 2.4T receives a turbo and an 8 way power drivers seat. The 2.5T AWD gets rainsensor wipers, headlamp washers and heated front seats. The top of the line T5 gets lumbar support seats, auto-dim rearview mirror and more horsepower. Various upgrade packages are available throughout the line including leather seats, automatic climate control, power moonroof, an upgraded stereo and a navigation system.

Under the Hood:

3 engines are used on the S60 line. Base models get a transversely mounted 2.4 liter DOHC 5 cylinder producing 168 horsepower. S60T gets a turbo and intercooler making 197 HP. AWD models have a 2.5 Liter 5 cylinder with turbo and intercooler with 208 HP. The most powerful engine is the smallest, a 2.3 liter 5, with DOHC, turbo and intercooler producing 247 horses. Power is transferred through a 5 speed automatic with a 5 speed manual standard in the 2.4 and T5. MPG ranges from 22 city to 31 Hi-way depending on options.

The driving experience:

I’ve long been a fan of the Volvo ‘feel’ and the S60 is no exception. Steering response is quick with good road feel. Handling and ride are excellent for a front wheel drive car thanks to fully independent suspension with MacPherson struts and coil springs front and multilink with coil springs in the rear. Larger stabilizer bars are available for the T5. Base models are shod with 15” wheels with 16” standard on the 2.4T and AWD models. 235/45/17’s are available on the 2.4T and T5.ABS with electronic brake distribution is standard on all S60’s. The ride is well controlled and handling is crisp with little body roll. True, front wheel drive cars lack the balance of some of their rear drive competitors, but Volvo has done an outstanding job of tuning the S60 for ride and sporty handling. Snow belt drivers will appreciate the added traction of front wheel drive. Spirited driving is the order of the day in the turbo cars with excellent acceleration. The cars relatively light weight (3,400 lbs in the 2,4T) helps here. The tight 38.9 ft turning circle makes parking a snap. Towing capacity is rated at 3,300 lbs.

Inside the car:

The S60 is quiet and the front seats are very comfortable. Controls are logical except for the radio. The driving position is excellent with a good view out. Overall, the interior is tastefully done. The audio system, aside from the confusing controls, sounds excellent.

Conclusion:

The S60 may be the most underrated car in production. The 2.4T I drove was a joy. My advice is to buy the turbo car. The T5 would be my personal choice if you can afford the extra cost ($32,825) Drive the S60 before you buy any other car.

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
560 ESPN Radio
Denver