Used to seeing concepts watered down for production, we’re happy to see Volvo sticking to their guns for the new S60. The production version of Volvo’s mid-sized exec, revealed here ahead of its Geneva debut, looks remarkably similar to the S60 Concept the Swedish brand wheeled out at the 2009 Detroit show. Among the distinctive cues carried over is the XC60 style front end, the wavy signature line on its profile and those inverted L-shaped tail lamps, but the basic shape is recognizably as an S60. Volvo says that “the sculpted hood and the short overhangs front and rear also emphasize the sports-car feel.” We’re not sure about the “sports-car feel” but this S60 does have presence. It has grown is size too; longer, wider and with a longer wheelbase, but is less than 45kg heavier than the current car (Cars United State Of America, Car United State Of America, USA Car, USA Cars, Car USA, Cars USA).
Engine choices include a twin-scroll turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with 300 bop and 440 NM. Paired to a new six-speed auto (faster shifts) and Haldane WAD, this S60 T6 does 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 6.5 seconds. Of course following the common trend of ‘engine downsizing’, there will be a new 2.0-liter Gd Ti engine, which is good for 203 hp and 300 NM of torque from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm (Cars United State Of America, Car United State Of America, USA Car, USA Cars, Car USA, Cars USA).
Three suspension setups will be available: Base, Dynamic and Four-C Adaptive. The optional Dynamic uses stiffer springs and bushings, returned dampers and thicker piston rods, while Four-C adaptive damping aims to provide the best of all worlds. On the safety front, Advanced Stability Control employs a new roll angle sensor to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. Also debuting is Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake, which can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the S60, warn the driver, before automatically apply full braking power if he/she does not respond in time. This system works at speeds up to 35 km/h. This is a development of City Safety, which works the same way, but for vehicles.
