Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2013 Volvo S60T6 AWD R. I had not been in a Volvo since 2006. I’m sorry for that because I try so hard to look at all the cars but there are more cars than there are weeks available.
Volvo has always presented the image of quality and safety and that is a popular correct need for today’s consumers. Growing up in the 50s, 60s and 70s it was enough that the car had 4 wheels and an engine that actually ran. A little bailing wire and chewing gum would keep it together and then along came Duct Tape to replace the bailing wire and chewing gum.
The first thing I noticed is that it was BLUE and I mean BLUE… bright and although it would not be the color I would select I’m guessing marketing thought otherwise. And it is reminiscent of the blue in the Swedish flag. Perhaps that’s what inspired the color for this S60. Looks great on the flag, I must admit.
General Information:
It is assembled in Ghent, Belgium. Classification is Compact. Cars from Volvo: C-30, C70, S40, S-60, S-80, V50, XC-60, XC-70 & XC-90.
Opinion and Observations:
Would someone explain why indentations were made in the surface of the highway as dividing markers… thump, thump, thump…. Ok, so it’s good to have a reminder that you are crossing over the line to change lanes. Sometimes folks drift and it is a good reminder you are going astray.
However the idiot’s who thought up the idea of carving those immovable indentations should be fired. Stupid is, stupid does. Why, because CalTrams failed to think ahead at the obvious since they are constantly changing the placement of the lanes and therefore those indentations ground out of the cement are a nuisance to millions of drivers when those indentations end up in lanes when the original lanes are moved.
Only government can be so stupid. Private industry must not make such mistakes since it cost the company … unaccountable government spends YOUR money and so they don’t give a damn. Shame on them.
Handling & Performance:
Great ride. I tested this Blue Volvo in the state of Oregon, with snow, sleet and rain which is so common to the Pacific Northwest. The all wheel drive feature gave me and my wife a great deal of comfort in such conditions. It is a powerful sedan and seats 4 large adults comfortably.
If you are impressed with quick passing speed on the highway, you’ll love this turbo charged 325 horsepower 6-cylinder engines performance. Impressively and effortlessly smooth.
Styling:
Distinctively Volvo. Unmistakable in a world of “generic” designs that are all too common.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
MSRP of $43,900 is priced at what I expected.
Conveniences and comfort:
There is a ton of great features for today’s needs… or at least wants . . . ok it’s not a ton but you know what I mean. Volvo is typically a comfortable car and this S 60 was no exception. It is a super comfortable car which is most notable on long drives and our travel around Oregon was long enough to notice there was an absence of even thinking whether or not you were comfortable.
Consumer Recommendation:
This Volvo is in good company and among some other great cars. That means your job of deciding which is the best choice for you and where to spend your transportation dollars will be challenging. Volvo has a long history and also is a company that emphasizes safety and that will resonate in a huge way with young families looking for the safest car in today’s world. Volvo has a near cult following in the area of safety and that gives the Volvo an edge in this market. Ask the crash dummy.
Recognized Competition:
Volvo S60 $43,000, Acura RL $48,000, Acura TL $36,000, Audi A4 $33,000, BMW 335i $45,000, Buick Regal $33,000, Cadillac ATS $48,000, Cadillac CTS $50,000, Chrysler 300 $36,000, Hyundai Azera $32,000, Infiniti G Sedan $39,000, Lexus ES 350 $36,000, Lexus GS 350 AWD $50,000, Lincoln MKS $45,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $39,000, Nissan Maxima SV $36,000, Volkswagen CC $42,000, Volkswagen Passat SEL $34,000.
Good News:
Long history for safety, fast turbo, super comfortable in class and great safety and driving assist features.
Bad News:
None noted
Standard Equipment:
3.0 liter 325 HP turbo charged 6-cylinder engine, CTV – continuous variable valve timing, 6-speed auto trans, all wheel drive, dynamic stability control, with corner traction control, speed sensitive steering, ventilated 4-wheel disc brakes with electronic brake distribution and assist, 18” alloy wheels, leather seating, with aluminum inlay and sport pedals, front side and side curtain airbags, adjustable steering wheel, LATCH system, driver information system, security system with back up battery for siren, tire pressure monitoring, foglights, power glass moon roof, 7” color monitor, power seats, keyless entry and push button start/stop, power heated mirrors, Bluetooth hands free phone, climate control, 60/40 split folding rear seat, tilt steering column, audio with CD, MP3, HD Radio, USB and AUX inputs, Sirius satellite radio.
Gas Stats:
$3.93/ Gal avg. April 5, 2013
For more information.
18 City and 25 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $43,900.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
