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So equipped, our test car managed a run from zero to 60-mph in a scant
7.6 seconds and covered the quarter mile in 15.8-seconds at 88.3 mph. Such performance is formidable for a middle-range
engine choice and will probably prove to be more than enough power for most drivers.
While performance is very good, fuel economy also remains quite competitive. A combination of slippery aerodynamics
and the efficient I-5 engine help the 2.4T to manage 21-mpg in the city and a frugal 28-mpg on the highway, quite
good for a car this size.
Acceleration is a great thing, though bringing the car to a stop is even more important. This is especially so
for the car company known for its industry-leading safety levels. The S60 2.4T is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes
that are assisted by anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake distribution (EBD). This system works smoothly
with little fade, and brings the car to a stop from 60-0 mph in only 122 feet.
Suspension on the car is of MacPherson strut multi-link design combined with an independent rear. The setup is
smooth and swallows most bumps with much poise, though it remains taught in the curves with surprisingly little
body roll for a car not equipped with any sort of sport suspension package, as is common in this segment. Though
it is not as hard-edged as the Lexus IS300 or BMW 3-series, the Volvo's suspension is surprisingly sporty while
retaining a very composed ride over rough pavement.
The steering is precise and, like the acceleration, would prove exceptional to most drivers. Our more sporting
preferences left us wanting a feel that was not so light at highway speeds, and providing us with perhaps a bit
more road feel, though it did not leave us disappointed. However, this is one aspect of the S60 we hope Volvo addresses
with the introduction of the much anticipated S60 R.
The interior is very uniquely Swedish and, in turn, very uniquely Volvo. The large flat center console is slightly
angled toward the driver, and the trademark seat profile pictogram shows the occupants where the car's dual zone
environmental control system is directed. Features such as the frontal seat pouches found between the legs of the
driver and front passenger in addition to the B-pillar mounted rear seat air vents are unique designs that Volvo
has employed on most of its models.
Seats in the S60 are surprisingly gripping, though they are definitely designed more for comfort than for performance.
While the smaller bolsters don't look the most sporting, the unique design keeps the driver planted in the center
of the seat through hard cornering. The front seats' lumbar adjustment is also a plus.
In the rear, the electronically released headrests allow for significantly
improved rearward view. However, a driver should take care with using this feature by accident with passengers
in the rear, as back seat occupants will not be happy with a whack in the head by a quickly lowering seat rest.
There is always a plethora of safety equipment found as standard in every Volvo, and this S60 is no exception to
that rule. The 2.4T comes equipped with dual stage front airbags, inflatable side curtains, side impact front airbags,
the side impact protection system (SIPS), 3-point safety belts for all passengers, ISO-FIX child seat mounting
system, headrests for all seating positions, daytime running lights and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Our test car came further equipped with several stand alone options in addition to two option packages. The trip
computer is a nice addition that displays data such as miles to empty, average miles per gallon, average speed
and outside temperature. Gray leather seating, a power sunroof, power passenger seat, CD player, simulated wood
trim and metallic paint were also equipped on this car, adding to the price.
A Cold Weather Package and Touring Package were also equipped on our S60, adding equipment such as Stability Traction
Control (STC), heated front seats, the aforementioned trip computer, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a Homelink security
system and home lighting control transmitter, memory side mirrors, electric folding rear headrests and a grocery
bag holder. This equipment, while nice, is not necessary and is one place a prospective 2.4T buyer can choose to
drop in order to shave some money off of the as tested price of $36,260.
While the 2.4T has a base price of an affordable $30,375, it is easy to see how one can raise the price considerably
as options are added. There are several of those options we'd probably delete in order to keep the price down,
though the $200 Geatronic transmission option would most definitely be added to the list.
While you can't please all of the people all of the time, Volvo's S60 2.4T does its best to come darn close. The
relatively low price point, combined with better than average performance, one of the best looking designs in its
class and industry-leading safety make it truly Volvo's golden boy. For most drivers, the 2.4T delivers more than
enough, and because of this will garner a sizeable share of the attention from consumers considering offerings
in its highly competitive market niche. This car will most likely succeed in winning over many first-time Volvo
owners, while not disappointing the traditional Volvo buyer. With this car, it would appear Volvo has hit a home
run. |
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| Specs:
Volvo S60 2.4T |
| Engine |
2.4-liter 5-cylinder |
0-60mph |
7.6 seconds |
| Maximum Power |
197-hp@6000rpm |
60-0mph |
122 feet |
| Maximum Torque |
210 lb-ft.@1800rpm |
Fuel Economy |
21mpg / 28mpg |
| Transmission |
5-speed Automatic |
Base Price |
$30,375 US |
| Drive Type |
front-wheel-drive |
Price As Tested |
$36,260 US |
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