2012 Volvo S60 R-Design
Categories: Car Reviews
Written By: admin
This R-Design is the best riding Volvo I’ve ever driven. Which is ironic, insofar as it has an even stiffer suspension than the setup under the S60, one of the sportiest cars ever from the Swedish firm.
Its chassis combines an eagerness to dive for a corner’s apex and a unusually neutral balance right up to the high limits of grip, with a suppleness over blighted, broken urban blacktop that puts it right at the top of an accomplished class of contenders. Even sharp transverse ridges don’t cause it to descend into noisy harshness—rare for something with such low-profile tires. Part of the credit goes to the S60’s solid structure, but much can be laid at the feet of the chassis engineers, who have done an incredible job of tuning springs, dampers, and bushings to work as a harmonious whole.
The S60’s steering is good too; quick and direct, if not exactly brimming with feedback. Brakes are strong and fade-free, with decent pedal feel. Altogether, this represents a high water mark for the company.
The Volvo’s engine, bumped in output over lesser S60s to 325 horsepower, feels very robust; its 354lb-ft of torque give the R-Design great punch just off idle, 0-60 in 5.3 seconds, and excellent midrange passing power. The six-speed automatic’s control logic makes the most of the engine’s grunt, and it is channeled through an all wheel drive system which is much more rear-biased—a very good thing—than earlier Volvo offerings.
R-Design gives you some tweaked bodywork and bespoke wheels, upping the amperage on an already slinky shape. Inside, the class’ best interior is only made more appealing thanks to some really cool materials and color contrasts that come with this package. Back seat space is still at a premium, but for those in front, it doesn’t get any better.
Volvo is fully competitive on their warranty and free servicing package, and lease rates make put the S60 R-Design right in the heart of the market. For those sick of the default Audi, BMW and Mercedes offerings—or anyone who wants a good premium sedan with a great sporting bent—this is a great choice.
EPA ratings: 18/26
Price as tested: $46,875
