The 2019 Volvo S60 was named a 2019 North American Car of the Year finalist, and also a finalist for 2019 Motor Trend Car of the Year. Since February of 2018, sales have grown by 34%.
CEO of Volvo Cars Hakan Samuelson said, “Our vision is that by 2020 nobody should be killed or injured in a new Volvo car.”
Now that is quite a statement!
However, it is understandable because the S60 is a sedan that is sporty, sophisticated, and safe. Not only superbly built but also filled with safety and security technology.
Yet, there may be a learning curve when it comes to mastery of the technology. It is nearly impossible to use the 12.3-inch Digital Driver Display when driving. The screen is just too cluttered with options, making it difficult to locate and select the task you need.
The on-screen controls for audio, HVAC, and communication functions should be easy to locate, with goal achieved in two or three steps. Knobs are welcome, and easy to use while driving.
The 2.0-liter super- and turbo-charged direct injection engine packs 316 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,200 rpm. Your power surge is instantaneous. The fuel economy is 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, for a combined 25 mpg.
The engine is married to an 8-speed Geartonic automatic transmission with drive mode settings.
This five-passenger sedan has numerous impressive features. Integrated into the Digital Driver Display infotainment system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; both standard features. Choose you own music apps and voice control. The Bowers and Wilkins Sound System is a premium conveyor for the music you enjoy.
Inside the cabin is very quiet, even on challenging roadways. The dash and under-paneling along with the seats are comprised of quality materials with rich good-looks.
I would like to see a little more room in the seats, and not so much confinement. I know this is a design choice for safety, but still. Also, the car sits low so dismounting may pose an issue if you have knee or back issues. Back seat volume is quite adequate when it comes to head, shoulder, and leg rooms.
10-way power-adjustable seats with 4-way lumbar together plus driver and passenger memory settings made for a very convenient and comfortable front seating.
The S60 has 18-inch alloy wheels with all season tires, dual integrated tailpipes with specially designed colored panels, and LED front fog lights with cornering offer handsome outer appeal. The R-Design package brings a lowered sport chassis and stiffer suspension, plus inside and outside changes to match its performance. The R-Design’s high-gloss black inserts for the front, lower, and outer grilles add to the beautiful ensemble.
The R-Design model comes standard with Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert for additional peace-of-mind. Steering wheel and gearshift knob are unique R-Design spec with Fine Nappa and Perforated leather; adding a high degree of eloquence to the cabin. The T6 AWD R-Design model starts at $46,400. The R-Design package adds an additional $6,100 to the MSRP of the entry-level Momentum model.
Like all Volvos, the S60 is Scandinavian-designed with a focus on safety. In addition to the above-mentioned BLIS, you have the renowned City Safety Collision Avoidance, Road Sign Information, plus all the usual active driver assist tech like Lane Keeping Aid. To make city life easier, there is Park Assist Pilot and Rear Park Assist with camera. WHIPS Whiplash Protection System is a noteworthy last-defense protection.
The S60 handles extremely well. It has the torque to accelerate in a hurry. The laminated panoramic moonroof with power sunshades keeps you in touch with the outside while the two-zone automatic climate keeps your world comfortable inside.
All the items mentioned above are made to enhance your driving experience. Volvo’s enriched styling, advanced technology work together combining a yeoman’s performance while delivering great room for folks and their luggage.
