Volvo S60 T6 AWD 2011 - Volvo,
Yes It's Cool!
por Juan Robbin
When
you think Volvo, you think mainly of cars that offer safety and at
times, conservative, even uninspiring styling. This typical reaction is
rapidly changing, thanks to the current line-up of Volvo vehicles which
are actually good looking and interesting to drive. Yet, maintaining the
all-important DNA that Volvo is so well known for. The refreshed styling
and active safety features are perfectly highlighted by the newly
redesigned and cool-looking 2011 S60.
Even though the S60 has the unmistakable Volvo lineage look, it most
definitely manages to come across fresh and current. The roof line has
an elegant sweep, ending at the base of the rear window and the front
fascia looks forceful and modern. Headlight treatment is styled more
aggressively, and it works, blending in quite well with the overall
design.
Inside the S60, you are greeted with an updated interior that continues
to offer the clean and crisp Scandinavian look that is reminiscent of
the current Volvo interior design, yet updated and modern. This works
well for the S60 as it gives the driver and passenger a feel of
relaxation and comfort without being over the top. Front seats are
superbly comfortable, offering pleasing, supple-to-the-touch leather.
Dash, instrument cluster and center console are brushed metallic, giving
off a modern flavor to the interior. Switchgear and controls are first
rate, quite pleasing to the touch, actually. Rear seat is comfortable
for two, a smidge tight for three. Navigation system is a leap forward
in ease of use and on screen presentation. Trunk is deep and spacious.
Driving the S60 is a delight. There is a noticeable,
yet non-intrusive exhaust tone that does give a hint of sportiness to
the car, especially when you go deep with the accelerator pedal.
Steering wheel feels superb, more so because of the luxurious feel of
the leather used around the grip area. Acceleration is smooth and
powerful, not overly-so though. Cornering feels direct and quite lively;
this is due in part, to the AWD system and the excellent suspension set
up. Braking is good, with a linear and powerful brake pedal feedback.
The smooth 6 cylinder, turbocharged engine left us pleasantly surprised,
making the S60 a bit of a stealthy, dark-horse sleeper when you want to
impress off a stop light. For those that are tech and safety focused,
the S60 offers a host of active safety features that will make even the
most timid feel safe. These include: Lane departure warning, Distance
alert/Driver alert control, Collision warning and pedestrian detection,
both with full auto brake, (no, we didn’t ask for volunteers).
The 2011Volvo S60: A brilliant mix of traditional Volvo DNA coupled with
a striking design as well as useful modern technology.
The Essentials:
MSRP: $37,700.00 MSRP (As tested): $46,200.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 22.1 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 300 HP turbocharged
Popular options: Premium & Technology Packages
visit: www.volvocars.com
