Model Strengths:

• Impressive Handling Performance
• Innovative Safety Features
• Powerful, Efficient Turbocharged Engines
• All-wheel Drive Available Across the Lineup

Model Overview:

With its 2011 redesign of the S60 sedan, Volvo served notice to other sport sedan makers of the world. Good things continue in 2013 with new features across the board.

The entry-level S60 T5 comes with a 2.5L turbocharged inline 5-cylinder engine. The unit produces 250 hp and 266 ft-lb of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, though a Haldex all-wheel drive system is now available. S60 T6 models are powered by a turbocharged 3.0L 6-cylinder engine that develops 300 hp and 325 ft-lb of torque, with all-wheel drive standard. Finally, the range-topping S60 R-Design shares the T6 powerplant and all-wheel drive, but it is tuned to put out 325 hp and 354 ft-lb of torque. All S60s utilize a 6-speed automatic with Geartronic manual control.

Safety is a big part of the Volvo brand. In addition to top-notch crash-test protection, both S60s include Volvo's Advanced Stability Control. The system not only provides power where it's needed for best stability in a new Sport Mode; it also helps aid stability in emergency maneuvers.

Both the S60 T5 and T6 are highly customizable. The Technology Package features a Pedestrian Detection system that will stop the car automatically if it senses an imminent collision with a walker. The package also comes with adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system, Driver Alert Control and lane departure warning.

A Multimedia Package includes navigation, a rear parking camera and a high-power surround system. The Premium Package includes a power-adjustable front passenger seat, a power moonroof and leather seating. The Climate Package adds heated seats, rain-sensing wipers and an in-cabin filtration system.

The Volvo S60 T5 cabin comes with T-Tec cloth upholstery, with optional leather seating surfaces available. Leather is standard on the T6. Those who desire the warm look of wood can select the Urbane Wood inlays option. This veneer is made from real wood that is sourced from responsibly managed forests and is certified by the Forest Steward Council. The wood is dyed and artfully layered together, creating a pattern inspired by the exotic grain of the African Zebrano, which is a threatened species. All models include a Driver Control Interface, more and more common in luxury cars today, which places many functions into a 7-inch color monitor.

The standard sound system is a 160-watt unit with a CD player, satellite radio, HD Radio, auxiliary audio and USB inputs and eight speakers. A Bluetooth hands-free interface is also included. The S60 offers the Audyssey Laboratories sound system as an option. It uses MultiEQ, technology common in home and professional theater equipment.

Model Changes:

Following a significant redesign back in 2011 and the introduction of the entry-level 2.5L turbocharged T5 model last year, Volvo's popular S60 enters 2013 with subtle updates to keep it fresh and exciting. Most notable is the availability of Haldex all-wheel drive on turbocharged T5 models, a feature previously found on T6 models alone. More changes in the T5's mechanicals include a revised compression ratio and engine management to allow for faster shifts from the 6-speed automatic transmission and improved acceleration; Volvo claims a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.4 seconds in front-wheel drive models. Additionally, the Dynamic Package has been dropped, rear heated seats are now an option and trim levels have been labeled Premier, Premier Plus and Platinum.

Model Value:

Volvo's handsome S60 is the Swedish carmaker's strongest international superstar sedan yet, and it covers all bases in the realms of design, performance and safety. The entry-level T5 offers excellent turbocharged power and now the sure-footedness of all-wheel drive, while the 3.0L T6 and T6 R-Design models offer standard all-wheel drive and world-class performance. As always, safety features abound on the S60, and the overall package provides stiff competition to everything from the cars of the BMW 3-Series to offerings from Acura, Lexus and Infiniti.