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Volvo S60 T6 (2011)
by Barry Green,reviewed April 2011
A switch from US marketed Ford Taurus underpinnings to Ford Mondeo platform has done wonders for Volvo’s new mid-sized S60.
The revision has endowed the S60 with impressive dynamics by way of handling, steering and body control. And all-wheel-drive provides the grip levels to match any weather or road condition.
Firm ride quality is a trade off with most sporty drives, and the S60 is no exception, particularly at low speeds (i.e., around town).
The 3.0-litre turbocharged six is eager to please, with low-down grunt and mid-range performance tappable through a smooth-changing six-speed auto. And it needs the oomph, hauling a not insubstantial 1888 kg.
The interior is functional and well-appointed, but the S60 is more convincing as a four seater, rather than five. The powered front seats provide driver and passenger with plenty of adjustment, but don’t really live up to the sporty theme - more lateral support would be nice for when the twisty bits come up.
This is a car that wants for nothing safety wise. Particularly worth a mention is City Safe (fitted as standard), which uses a closing velocity sensor to help determine whether a low-speed tail-end collision is likely. Depending on the speed, the Volvo's computer system will either prepare the car to brake, or automatically apply the brakes to avoid, or mitigate, a rear-ender.
For
Safety, vehicle dynamics, solid performance
Against
No spare (repair kit only), chunky A-pillars impair vision
Key features
18” alloys, climate control airconditioning, rear spoiler, central locking with remote control, immobiliser, leather seats, premium audio system, sat/nav system, power front seats, front/rear park assist
Safety
Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA), emergency brake light, front/side/curtain airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control (TC), front/rear seatbelt pretensioners, City Safety (collision avoidance) system
Car Details
| Vehicle make |
Volvo |
| Vehicle model |
S60 T6 |
| Vehicle type |
Medium Over $50,000 |
| Year |
2011 |
| Price when new |
$64,950 MLP |
| Current price range |
$ - $
|
| Insurance |
Get a quote for car insurance |
| Technical advice |
For more information about your prospective purchase, contact our Motoring Advice Service. |
| Engine |
24-valve, DOHC turbo petrol, 6-cyl |
| Max power |
224 kW @ 5600 rpm |
| Max torque |
440 Nm @ 2100-4200 rpm |
| Acceleration to 100 km/h |
6.1 sec (claimed) |
| Economy ADR |
10.2, 12.3 (as tested) |
| Emissions rating |
|
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This review is based on road testing conducted by The Road Ahead. Further vehicle reviews, in-depth comparisons and coverage of consumer motoring issues can be found in the Club's magazine. Prices listed were current at the time of review and are manufacturers list prices and do not include statutory and delivery charges. Prices can vary from time to time and dealer to dealer.