Volvo S60 T6 road test
by Stephen Walker
30th May, 2012
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Volvo Cars has certainly changed perceptions about their products over
recent years. The Swedish brand is big with SUVs, but the latest S60 range is an excellent example of how Volvo is now
transforming its image with sedans, too. Fitting into the medium-sized premium market, the Volvo S60 is available in a
wide range of variants. We were positively delighted to sample a higher-end version.
Test Car
Our white drive car was the S60 T6 sedan, fitted with the optional "Technik" pack. This was an extremely satisfying
package. Three-litre six, auto transmission, all-wheel drive, nicely presently feature packed interior, neat exterior
styling, a good strong feel, with a comfortable ride and very good handling qualities.
Prices*
The base price* for the Volvo S60 T6 is $65,490*, the optional Technik pack is priced at $5,000*. Therefore, the total
manufacturer's list price* is $70,490* for our drive car.
This is at the top end of pricing for mid-sized premium cars that aren't overtly performance orientated. But you can
be sure, at this price, the well equipped and extraordinarily satisfying Volvo S60 is quite competitive in pricing
because, simply, it is a better car than, for example, its German competitors. Yes, that's correct, I said the Volvo is
better than the similar German models (in my opinion).
Model background
The Volvo S60 arrived in Australia in late 2010. Since that time some changes have occurred to the model line-up. You
might suggest that Volvo is enhancing the sportiness of their product line. And that is true. Although, sportiness isn't
necessarily the first thing that one would think of when contemplating aspects of Volvo cars. However, Volvo has had some
mighty fine sporty models in the past and the future suggests there are more on the way, despite an emphasis on improving
fuel consumption.
Driving the Volvo S60 T6 Technik
Our 195 kilometres of suburban driving proved quite a pleasing experience. No fault can be levelled at the Volvo S60
T6. It has a strong, tight, secure feel about it. The ride is comfortable, just leaning a little towards the firm
side. Performance is pleasing, being better than adequate, whilst refraining from excitement. Therefore, the performance
is matched perfectly to the 'character' of the car, which is luxury, moreso than high performance.
Living with the Volvo S60 T6 Technik
Convenience is an important aspect of happy motoring. Sure, requirements will vary from driver to driver. But features
such as the camera for reversing, lumbar support on both front seats (manually operated), electrically controlled front
seats, auto up/down power windows (x4), driver's footrest, 4-way adjustable steering column, and an electric parking
brake (with drive-away release) are always going to be appreciated.
The lack of gearshift paddles has to be a plus!
Specifications
Powered by a transversely-mounted three-litre in-line, six-cylinder (2,953 cc), 24 valve, DOHC, turbocharged
petrol-fuelled engine, the test car came complete with 224 kW (at 5,600 rpm) of power and 440 Nm (in the range 2,100 to
4,200 rpm) of torque. The S60 Technik comes standard with all-wheel drive.
The S60 T6 has a 6-speed Adaptive Geartronic with Neutral Control and Sports mode automatic transmission.
Safety
Quite rightly, Volvo Cars is highly respected for the extensive research they have undertaken in respect to the safety
aspects of motoring. Such technologies as "city safety" are now standard on the S60, same with the reinforced passenger
compartment. The S60 has six airbags, Advanced Stability Control, Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) and
"anti-submarining" protection for the front seat occupants amongst a wide variety of safety related aspects.
Performance
Factory figures indicate that 0-100 km/h acceleration is possible in 6.1 seconds with the Volvo S60 T6.
Fuel and emissions
On the combined cycle, fuel consumption of the T6 is rated at 10.2 litres per 100 kms.
City cycle consumption is rated at 14.9 l/100 km. Highway cycle comes in at 7.5 l/100 km.
Although 98RON premium unleaded petrol is the preferred fuel, the S60 T6 operates quite suitably on 95RON petrol.
The fuel tank capacity is 67.5 litres.
CO2 emissions from the Euro5 compliant engine are 243 grammes/kilometre.
Equipment
Standard features include, but are not limited to; cruise control, trip computer, navigation, various connectivity
solutions for suitable equipment (Auxiliary audio input, USB, iPod, Bluetooth including audio streaming), memory settings
for driver's seat, retractable exterior rear-view mirrors, alloy wheels and so much more.
Options
Plenty of options are offered on all versions of the Volvo S60.
The test car had the "Technik" pack which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS),
Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake (CWAB) including Queue Assist and Pedestrian Detection and Adaptive Bending Lights
(with headlight washer system).
Variants
The Volvo S60 comes in numerous guises. Four-cylinder, petrol-fuelled, front-wheel drive variants include the T4, T4
Technik, T5, T5 Technik and T5 R-Design. A diesel-fuelled five-cylinder T3 and T3 Technik are on offer. Six-cylinder
models are T6, T6 Technik and T6 R-Design models.
Each of the versions feature an automatic transmission.
Performance enthusiasts will be excited to learn that the S60 T6 R-Design is now "Polestar" optimised!
Prices range from $49,490* for the S60 T4 to $75,490* for the S60 T6 R-Design. Options are available for each variant
to those wanting even more for their Volvo S60.
The T6 is all-wheel drive, whilst all others are front-wheel drive.
Dimensions
Length: 4,628 mm
Width: 2,097 mm (including mirrors)
Height: 1,484 mm
Wheelbase: 2,776 mm
Weight: 1,684 kg
Boot capacity: 380 litres
Towing
The towing capacity of an appropriately equipped S60 T6 is 1,800 kg for a braked trailer.
After Sales
The warranty and roadside assistance package operate, with conditions, on a three year/unlimited kilometre basis.
Conclusion
Few cars are as impressive as the Volvo S60 T6 Technik. To say we were excited with the presentation and the
overall feel of the car for everyday driving is a massive understatement. If your next car is this good, you will
be a very satisfied motorist!
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices,
fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications. Luxury Car Tax (LCT) is effected when
options are added to the car.
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