Volvo S60. 2011

VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS

The 2011 Volvo S60 is redesigned, with freshened styling, more power, and new features. This premium-midsize car comes in a single T6 trim level with standard all-wheel drive. Due later in the 2011 model year is a sporty T6 R-Design. The sole powertrain teams a 300-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This replaces turbocharged 5-cylinder engines of 208 and 257 horsepower.

Volvo offers a choice of two standard suspension configurations: Dynamic Chassis, or the softer-riding Touring Chassis. Optional is the FOUR-C Active Chassis, which enables drivers to select Comfort, Sport, or Advanced suspension settings via dashboard buttons. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Blind-spot alert and lane-departure warning are available. Volvo's City Safety accident-avoidance system is standard. It automatically activates the brakes at low speeds to avoid or reduce the severity of an imminent collision. Newly available on the 2011 Volvo S60 is Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake. This accident-avoidance feature uses sensors to detect pedestrians who might step in front of the vehicle. If this happens, the system can apply full braking force at speeds up to 22 mph. A navigation system is available. The S60 T6 R-Design has specific trim, performance suspension tuning, and sport bucket seats. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium-Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.
Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G Sedan, Jaguar XF, and Volkswagen CC. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A6, Lexus ES 350, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo XC70.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS Coupe, Cadillac CTS-V, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class(convertible and wagon), and Volvo S60. For 2011, the Lincoln MKZ gains a gas/electric Hybrid model, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan gains a new diesel model for 2011.