Overview:
This is the 2017 Volvo S60 T5 AWD Dynamic. Here is what Volvo says: “If you’re the type of driver who loves a sporty look and an energetic ride, the S60 Dynamic was designed just for you. With a bold exterior, Dual Xenon headlights, a power glass moon roof, leather sport seats and a host of other great standard features at an outstanding value, you’ll enjoy driving this self-confident Volvo sedan”.
That is all pretty accurate as a highlight overview by the marketing department. But whether or not you are a devoted fan of Volvo cars it is one of the premiere cars that has been around since 1927. Most know it is Swedish.
I, like you, are likely to be impressed by the fact that it is a Swedish company that brings it to us. But most important, in my experience over the years, is that it not only is respected as a fine machine, there are those subtle ooos and aaaas – “oh a Volvo”…. Nice. That makes an impression.
General Information: It is assembled in Ghent, Belgium; Parts – U.S./Canadian 1%, Sweden 30%, Belgium 20%, Engine – Sweden and Transmission – Japan. Classification is Compact. Cars from Volvo: XC90, XC70, XC60, S60, S80, S90, V60, V90.
Handling & Performance:
Very good all-wheel drive control, confident handling in the twists and turns of the mountain course. Adaptive cruise is outstanding.
Styling:
Uniquely Volvo, mostly because of the consistent grillwork design.
Fit and Finish:
No complaints on assembly. Well done.
Cost:
Very competitive pricing.
Conveniences and comfort:
Ok, so I have a bone to pick with car makers who make things more complicated than need be in the operation of our new car. We have just become acquainted with the features of our old car and knew where everything was. Well for me it is more noticeable because I change cars every week. What you realize is that some cars are pretty much the same in how the features can be used – but then some, like this Volvo, are not as intuitive as I demand. If I wanted to wade through the operation manual after all my years of driving thousands of cars I wouldn’t push back. Really, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how I judge how well the manufacturer has anticipated my expectations in operation. If I can’t make it work without the aid of the manual and doing 70 mph I’m not a happy camper.
What I haven’t figured out is the level of difficulty just a matter of how differently the Swedes think, or have they reacted to the feedback from consumers to go in the direction they have in design? Specifically, the features control requires a lot of “eyes off the road” to operate them. That simply isn’t ok with me. I simply want to get into the car push the start button and go. I don’t what to spend time in the driveway setting all the controls. Perhaps the Swedes who design the controls are laid back and do pre-flight like we used to do in the Navy before we stepped into the plane. Then we spent even more time checking every switch and knob before we lifted off into the sky. Hey, I’m just going a mile or two ….
Hands Free Phone: I have been unable to find out why the volume of the hands free feature is poor. If anyone has an answer, please email me and if others are experiencing the same problem we can tell Volvo about it.
Consumer Recommendation:
You have choices and that competition between providers is what makes all products better all the time. As you test drive new cars you will be impressed with most of what a Volvo car is. It is first cabin and top quality all around. I’m confident you’ll give it an A rating. . . in spite of the control thing-ee.
Recognized Competition:
Volvo S60 $36,000, Acura ILX $36,000, Audi A3 $35,000, Cadillac ATS $38,000, BMW 3 Series $34,000, Lexus IS $41,000, Mercedes Benz CLA $34,000.
Good News:
Best fuel economy in this segment, priced well, very comfortable ride and plenty of power.
Bad News:
Features control more complicated than it should be.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 240 hp turbo-charged engine, ultra low emission vehicle, 8-speed auto trans, Start / Stop engine technology, all wheel drive with instant traction, stability control, traction control through torque vectoring, power assisted rack and pinion steering, electronic brake distribution, ABS braking with ready alert brakes, 18” alloy wheels, navigation with 7” color LCD monitor, audio system with 8-speakers, in dash single CD with WMA and MP3, HD radio, USB & Auxilary inputs, Bluetooth hands free with audio streaming, Sirius radio and Sensus Connect with WiFi hotspot and Volvo On-Call (6 mos. Complimentary), smart phone apps for engine remote start, collision avoidance system, front airbage, side curtain and side impact protection system, driver and front passenger dual chamber side impact airbags, whiplash protection system, child safety locks/ rear doors, LATCH child system, tire pressure monitor, leather seating, 8-way power driver seat with memory, leather wrapped tilt and telescopic steering wheel, dual zone climate control, electron ignition with push button start, heated power mirrors, 60/40 folding rear seats, power foldable rear seat headrests.
Gas Stats:
$2.69 Gal avg. December 25, 2016
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
23 City and 31 Highway MPG
(best fuel economy of the competition noted)
Pricing:
MSRP $35,950.
