Matt started by complimented the new S60 exterior, stating: “The exterior, with its Thor’s hammer LED headlights, deep chin spoiler and flashes of chrome and gloss black aero trim is purposeful without veering into aggressive like its German rivals, and the optional 20s fill the arches perfectly.”
It was in fact the interior however that really impressed. Matt described the updated interior as “minimalist, slick and achingly stylish” and pointed out that there are very few physical controls because “most things are taken care of via the Sensus touchscreen, steering wheel buttons or voice control.”
Matt went on to say: “The R-Design Edition’s sports seats are very sculpted, with lots of folds and wings but they’re never uncomfortable. They support and grip in the right places without becoming too firm over long distances.”
The first model on sale in the UK is R-Design Edition, ahead of the release of entry-level R-Design Plus and the more luxurious Inscription Plus. R-Design models come with stiffer springs, faster dampers, thicker anti-roll bars and a lower ride height than Inscriptions, putting the focus on the S60’s sports saloon ambitions.
Testing the S60 on winding country roads, Matt was impressed with how the car performed. “The body stays flat as you use the quick (but not too twitchy) steering to guide it but the suspension is supple enough to shrug off all but the worst potholes and despite its near two-tonne weight it changes direction willingly and rapidly.”
At launch all S60s come with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 247bhp and badged T5. Matt thought the engine was well matched to the chassis, saying it’s “muscular enough to push the S60 to 62mph in just 6.5 seconds and with plenty of impetus through the gears.”
Cleary then, Matt is a big fan of the new S60 - and so are we. It’s a mark of how far Volvo has come in recent years, and we can now talk about the unparalleled style the range now offers – as well as the entertaining and rewarding driving experience you can achieve.
Read the full review from Boston Standard here.