The 2015 model year is a transition one for the Volvo S60, which gets new 'Drive-E' powertrains for part of the lineup. New S60 T5 models come with a newly developed 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque; while S60 T6 models have a special version of this engine employing both a turbocharged and supercharger, bringing output up to 302 hp and 295 lb-ft. These engines get extraordinarily good mileage--up to an EPA-rated 25 mpg city, 37 highway for the T5.
Stepping up to all-wheel drive, which is available on the entire model line, means a whole lineup of different and well-proven (although not as economical) engines. In T5 AWD models, a 2.5L turbocharged in-line 5-cylinder engine makes 250 horsepower and 268 pound-feet, while the top T6 R-Design gets a turbo 3.0L in-line six making 325 hp and 354 lb-ft.
The new Drive-E models also get a new 8-speed automatic transmission, which further helps with fuel-efficiency. So does an engine stop-start system that smartly shuts off the engine during periods of idling (at a stoplight, for instance) and starts it up seamlessly when you lift off the brake.
As for those all-wheel-drive versions, they have a Haldex system that sends most power to the front wheels during ordinary driving but can very quickly send more to the rear wheels as soon as a tire loses traction.
At the top of the 2015 S60 performance lineup is the T6 R-Design, which gets the 325-hp six, all-wheel drive, paddle-shifters, and various performance upgrades, plus a Sport Mode that makes transmission shifts more aggressive.
On T5 models you can add a Sport Package that brings sport seats, paddle shifters, a sport suspension, and 19-inch 'Bor' alloy wheels.
Throughout the S60 line, you'll find cabin appointments that are refreshingly different compared to most luxury cars, with contrasting trims, soft leather upholstery and woodgrain in places. The front seats are some of the most supportive in the S60's class, and even though the swoopy roofline doesn't suggest a lot of back-seat space, the seats are contoured so that even taller adults can sit back there comfortably.
V60 sport-wagon models offer essentially the same package as the S60 ahead of the back seats, but with its flip-forward seats and continuous cargo floor, it offers up far more versatility to active types and families--and it's going to appear even sportier than the sedan to some.
Major option groups include the Climate Package (heated front and rear outboard seats, heated windshield, heated steering wheel, heated washer nozzles), a Technology Package (Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake, Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake, Distance Alert, Driver Alert Control, Lane Departure Warning, Road Sign Information, Active High Beam and Lane Keeping Aid).
Standalone options include heated front seats, active dual xenon headlamps with washers, Park Assist Pilot, a dual-screen rear entertainment system, Urbane Wood inlays and a new Nubuck textile/leather upholstery--as well as several styles and sizes of wheels, ranging up to 19-inch 'Bor' diamond-cut alloys on the T6 or 'Ixion' II alloys with summer tires on the R-Design.
All S60 models come with the Sensus interface, which allows a screen interface for audio, optional navigation, apps, and Internet music streaming. Even the base audio system includes HD Radio tuning, satellite radio compatibility, Bluetooth audio streaming and USB inputs.
Strong Yet Economical New 'Drive-E' Engines
Versatile New V60 Sport Wagon
Beautiful Cabin Appointments
Excellent Safety Ratings
Safety And Technology Features
The Volvo S60 lineup gets a completely new 'Drive-E' generation of 4-cylinder engines beginning with the 2015 model year. They're mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission and have further fuel-saving measures such as engine stop-start technology.
For this year, the new Drive-E engines are offered only for front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive models retain the carry-over 5- and 6-cylinder engines.
Other new features for the S60 T5 models include new electric power steering, and a standard power passenger seat. New options include power retractable mirrors in the Premier Plus trim, a Lane Keeping Aid added to the Technology Package, a new Park Assist Pilot option and a new Sport Package with 19-inch wheels, sport seats, and steering-wheel paddle shifters. On top T6 R-Design models there's a newly optional Nubuck textile/leather upholstery.
Otherwise new or reconfigured packages include the Climate Package, Blind Spot Information (BLIS) Package, as well as many standalone options.
The 2015 Volvo S60 sedan lineup spans the range from practical, smart luxury sedan to full-fledged luxury sedan; and the svelte V60 follows suit, appealing to active people who need a little more versatility but don't necessarily want an SUV.
With a new lineup of 'Drive-E' engines, these cars have become much more attractive to those who want a fuel-efficient luxury car; and with Volvo adding more to the feature set each year, they're better equipped than most other luxury models for the same money.
The S60 line also has a very strong reputation for safety, with top-tier results from both of the U.S. agencies.
