Model Overview: 2007 Volvo S60 R

Model Overview: 2007 Volvo S60 R

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

S60 R: $38,995

Destination: $695

Volvo puts a fresh face on performance for 2007 with subtle changes to its state-of-the-art dynamic S60 R sport sedan. The redesigned front grille and bumper have been crafted to slip through the wind via improved aerodynamics. Likewise, the optional Sport Body Package includes a newly modified color-keyed front spoiler along with lower body side sills and rear spoiler. New side mirrors with integrated turn signals add a touch of luxury along with increased practicality by flashing three times with a single press of the steering wheel stalk.

The S60 R’s lengthy roster of standard equipment has been augmented with the addition of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a compass in the rearview mirror, a sunglass holder and a grocery bag holder.

Volvo’s five-cylinder 2.5-liter in-line turbocharged power plant produces 300 horsepower and 295 ft.-lbs. of torque. The engine reaches maximum torque at 1,950 rpm, thanks to a larger cylinder bore and a turbocharger with a maximum charging pressure of about 1 bar. This raises the temperature of the intake air, so the S60 R is fitted with twin intercoolers. The engine is equipped with Dual Wide Range CVVT continuously variable valve timing, on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. CVVT adjusts the valve opening times to suit the engine speed and load, lowering fuel consumption and reducing emissions, while increasing performance. To withstand the increased stress, pistons and connecting rods are heavily reinforced and cylinder head cooling is enhanced.

To embrace the connectivity between the car and driver, the standard six-speed manual gearbox has a short-throw shifter for rapid gear changes. The S60 R’s optional six-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission takes driving enjoyment to the next level by enabling the full torque and horsepower of the engine to be used. Factory measured 0 to 60 mph acceleration is 5.4 seconds for the former and 6.4 seconds for the latter.

All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction™ is a standard S60 R feature designed to enhance road grip. Computer-controlled Haldex AWD delivers up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff. Instant Traction employs a one-way pre-charging valve to the AWD system that maintains a torque load of 59 foot pounds, which is available instantly. Prior to Instant Traction, if the AWD system sensed that the front wheels were losing traction, one-seventh of a wheel rotation occurred before it began redirecting torque to the wheel with traction. That rotation could influence performance under certain conditions.

Performance by Volvo also means the safety of handling and control that comes from the unique Volvo Four C (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept). With this active chassis system, which compensates for road variances using a sophisticated network of sensors, All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction™, DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control), and “performance on demand” versatility, the S60R retains its status as Volvo’s most exhilarating and fun-to-drive sport sedan.