The upcoming 2013 Volvo S60 is a luxury sedan that brings high performance, an attractive exterior, and interior design.
After taking a year off in 2012, this 5-seater returns redesigned from its 2011 appearance. The 2013 edition will come with new features that include a brand-new body design, a new engine, and an AWD system.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $31,750.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.8 gallons (67L) | MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy |
| Length: 182.2 in. (462.7 cm) | Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277.6 cm) |
| Height: 58.4 in. (148.3 cm) | Width: 73.4 in. (186.4 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3548 lbs (1609 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 12 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 20 Valve Inline-5 DOHC | Displacement: 2.5 Liter |
| Horsepower: 250 HP | Max RPM: 5500 RPM |
| Torque: 266 lb-ft @ 1800-4800 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing Capacity: 3307 lbs (1500 kgs) | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:T6 AWD | MSRP: $40,450; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy |
| Option:T6 AWD R-Design | MSRP: $43,900; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy |
Engine & Performance
The base T5 trim comes with a 2.5L turbocharged 5-cylinder engine that makes 325 hp and 266 lbs-ft of torque. This engine combines with a standard 6-speed automatic gearbox and front-wheel drive, to enable the T5 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a remarkable 6.4 seconds and 6.6 second with the AWD system. You can get 21/30 mpg city/highway with the front-wheel drive; and 20/29 mpg city/highway with the AWD.
The T6 model is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 that generates 300 horsepower and 325 lbs-ft of torque. AWD system and 6-speed automatic transmission are standard, enabling the T6 to move from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. The fuel economy of this engine is estimated at 18 mpg in cities and 25 mpg on highways.
T6 R-Design models on the other hand are powered by a powerful version of the 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 that makes 325 horsepower and 354 lbs-ft of torque. The 6-speed automatic transmission and AWD are still standard, and the fuel economy remains the same to the T6’s. However, the R-Design is able to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in incredible 5.5 seconds.
Exterior
The 2013 S60 is the latest from Volvo to expand the brand form the traditional boxy design. The redesigned compact posture comes with low roofline and flowing lines giving the car a stylish and luxurious look. The S60 will be available in 3 trim levels including: T5, T6 and the T6 R-Design. T5 trims are fitted with 17-inch wheels, automatic wipers, headlight washers, heated mirrors and automatic headlights among other standard exterior features.
A premier package consisting of keyless entry, auto-dimming rearview mirror and sunroof is also available. The T6 adds 18-inch wheel to its exterior, while the T6 R-Design comes with extra exterior features that include sport-tuned suspension, and rear spoiler.
Interior
This sedan receives a lot of praise for having front seats that are very comfortable and with sufficient back support. It accommodates up to 5 people on its 60/40 split-folding rear seat and the front bucket seats. Many high-tech features are also found in the cabin that include, Bluetooth, USB iPod integration, satellite radio, auxiliary input jack, HD radio and dual-zone climate control.
This car also comes with Volvo’s floating center-control-panel, available in aluminum or wood finishes. The S60 comes with a cargo space of 12 cubic ft.
Safety & Reliability
This car comes with notable safety features including Volvo’s City Safety system that is designed to reduce the severity or prevent low-speed rear-end collision altogether. Other key safety features are: traction control, emergency trunk release, daytime running lights, 4-wheel ABS, electronic stability control, child safety locks, 4-wheel disc brakes, front passenger airbag with on/off switch, driver airbag, side head airbags, side airbags, and rear head airbags.
The S60 is backed with a 5-year or 50,000 miles basic warranty as well as 5-year road assistance.
Pros
- Comfortable front seats
- Upscale interior
- High-tech safety features
- Strong brakes and smart AWD system with T6
- Well balanced ride and handling
- Powerful and efficient engine
Cons
- Smaller-than-average back seats
- Confusing infotainment system
- Small trunk
The 2013 Volvo S60 comes with an impressive value, striking design, luxury and subtle sportiness that will definitely make people shopping for upscale midsize cars, to put this car in their buy list. The S60 comes with many standard equipment, offering an alternative to the ubiquitous German luxury sedans.
This car will however face competition from Acura ILX (MSRP $25,900; 24 city / 35 hwy), the Cadillac CTS (MSRP $33,095; 22 city / 33 hwy), and the Infiniti G25 (MSRP $33,100; 20 city / 29 hwy).
Overall Rating
77 out of 100
What others say:
“Powerful and efficient engines; well-balanced ride and handling; strong brakes and smart all-wheel-drive system with T6; comfortable front seats; superb crash test scores…Smaller-than-average backseat; some dated controls.” Edmunds
“The stylish 2013 Volvo S60 family spans the range from luxurious to edgy, all while hitting the mark for safety and top-notch interior design.”Car Connection
“The S60 is nimble and balanced in quick direction changes. The available all-wheel drive provides an extra measure of road-holding grip. The brakes feel strong and operate smoothly.”Consumer Guide
“If you want an attractive European sports sedan, but you don’t want to be a slave to the status quo, you’ll find the 2013 Volvo S60 offers both driving excitement and unmatched safety features.”KBB
