Volvo S60 Review

Redesigned for 2011, the Volvo S60 maintains its standing as the looker in the family, but we like what Volvo's done under the S60's skin even more.When it debuted nearly 10 years ago, the Volvo S60, with its muscular fenders and sweeping roof line, gave the rather staid Swedish company some spice it previously lacked on its
menu. But it's been due for a revamping for a few years now, so for 2011 the Volvo S60 gets a makeover that maintains this midsize sedan's glamour standing in the lineup.

Based on a shortened S80 platform, the new S60 remains on the small side of the midsize car spectrum. However, it's 1 inch longer overall, 2 inches wider and has a 2.3-inch-longer wheelbase than before. Inside, you'll find Volvo's understated but classy design aesthetic that includes the trademark "floating" center stack control panel. Under the skin, the 2011 S60 promises a more engaging drive thanks to quicker steering and a choice of suspension options that include a more firmly calibrated sport version dubbed "Dynamic" as well as Volvo's adaptive "Four C" setup.

The company known for building safe cars hasn't forgotten its roots; as such the 2011 S60 will boast Volvo's latest bit of safety technology called Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake. This system has the ability to detect pedestrians over 31 inches tall and can apply full braking power even if you take no action. At lower speeds (around 21 mph or less) it can bring the car to a full stop, while at higher speeds it slows the S60 to lessen the severity of a potential impact. You can, of course, take back control of the situation by steering around the danger.

Set to debut this fall, the 2011 Volvo S60 will initially only be available in top-of-the-line "T6" form, meaning it will sport a 300-horsepower turbocharged inline-6 engine and all-wheel drive. Later in the model year, a front-wheel-drive version of the T6 will become available, as will the T5 trim, with the brand's familiar turbocharged inline-5 making 227 hp. A six-speed automatic transmission will be standard across the board.