Volvo S60

The recently showcased 2013 Volvo S60 T5 is all set to give a tough competition to other models belonging to the luxurious sports sedan category. This latest offering from the Swedish car manufacturer brings in a combination of style, comfort and performance blended together to give an extra edge to this model. This sporty sedan does not fail to impress you a bit even at high altitudes and this speaks volumes about its powertrain.

The Mechanics

The 2013 Volvo S60 T5 is powered with an all-wheel-drive feature that takes it to another level. With the inclusion of the Haldex AWD of the fifth generation, the S60 T5 guarantees a smooth drive even on snowy terrains. This upgraded AWD is almost 5 pounds lighter than the earlier ones and this in turn enhances the fuel efficacy. Although this AWD feature adds an extra $2000 to the overall cost, it is still a good bargain.

The engine with 5 cylinder capacity is turbocharged to generate 250 horsepower and

Volvo S60

create a torque of 266lb-ft in a normal city drive. It also consists of an optional Over-boost feature which has the capacity to enhance the torque productivity to 295 lb.-ft. The upgraded engine model uplifts the entire torque scale to 4200rpm. The automated transmission system is designed to facilitate easy and rapid gear shifts. The 2013 S60 T5 model can switch over to the sport mode in a jiffy. This improved model performs fairly well in fuel efficiency as it provides an EPA of 20mpg in the city and nearly 29mpg on the highway.

The powerful engine in combination with all-wheel-drive feature provides a smooth and comfortable drive. In normal drivetrain, the torque is distributed amidst the front and rear with a ratio of 95/5 but in tough conditions it instantly regresses to a 50/50 ratio. The drive experience is awesome in highways. It also manages to pull the car to as high as 9000 feet altitude. The electronic system powered with torque vectoring is designed to generate extra power and supply it to the outer wheel during sharp turns. This in turn enhances the gripping power of the tires. The appropriately weighed steering is highly responsive.

The Exteriors

The S60 T5 Volvo is styled to make it more attractive. The outer body with well-contoured lines adds a touch of elegance. While the front portion is sharper, the rear end is more wedged. The trunk of this car is aptly sized which is trimmed accordingly to hold adequate luggage.

The Interiors

Volvo Interiors

True to the Swedish style, the interior has been kept subtle and is accessorized minimally. The basic T5 model is upholstered with T-Tec fabric which gives absolute comfort. This can be further enriched with well combined Beech wood and leather to give a touch of glamor to the entire look. The dashboard is designed with high quality material to give it adequate softness and style. A 7 inch wide LED screen is placed at the central point of the dash board where information regarding the audio system and the climatic conditions are displayed.

Apart from the standard features, the interior is loaded with additional features like Bluetooth feature, windshield wipers with rain sensors, high definition radio system and automated climate controls. The keyless start-button feature and the rear mirror with automatic dimming feature are some of its latest additions. It also provides full parking assistance. The front seats are very comfortable and provide enough leg space. The rear seats are not as cozy as the front seats. The cushioning at the bottom of the rear seats is quite low and does not provide ample leg space. You also have an option of adding upgraded features like glass Moonroof, state-of-the-art navigation system, high-powered xenon headlights and a latest entertainment arrangement with DVD players for the rear seats.

Safety Features

Volvo S60

The overall structure of the car gets full support from the Dynamic Stability Traction Control or DSTC. It gets immense grip from the torque vectoring feature. Along with a set of six front and side airbags, it has a load of other safety features like brake system powered with anti-locks and Whiplash Protection to provide appropriately cushioned headrests for the front seaters. The Pedestrian Detection feature with automated brakes and the City Safety feature aim at providing a safe drive within the city as the car stops on its own as soon as it senses any kind of physical hindrance. These enhanced safety features have helped this model to acquire the highest five-star rating in all parameters by the NHTSA.

The basic T5 model has a starting price rate of nearly $32,000 and an upgraded T5 model may be priced at $38,000. It actually depends on how many extra features you intend to include. This luxury sports car with high-end features is definitely worth the money.