Model Overview: 2006 Volvo S60 R

Model Overview: 2006 Volvo S60 R

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

S60 R : $37,920

Destination : $695

For 2006, the Volvo S60 R high-performance sport sedan receives two significant mechanical changes. New All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction™ is a standard feature designed to improve road grip. It’s fitted with the next-generation computer-controlled Haldex AWD system that instantaneously delivers up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff.

Instant Traction adds 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.

The S60 R’s new 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. The improvement can be measured in 0-60 mph acceleration of just 6.6 seconds compared to the previous model year’s 7.2 seconds. Meanwhile, the Volvo six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox continues to be offered. Its short-throw shifter allows rapid gear changes enhancing the connectivity between the car and driver.

Additional changes for 2006 include a new Convenience Package that replaces the former Touring Package. Its contents include a grocery bag holder, sunglass holder, rear park assist and laminated side windows. On the outside, Electric Silver becomes the premium exterior color replacing Flash Green. Sonic Blue is another new color, replacing Silver.

The S60 R is fitted with Volvo’s most powerful five-cylinder engine. Volvo’s 2.5-liter in-line turbocharged power plant produces 300 horsepower and 295 ft. lbs. of torque between 1,950 and 5,250 rpm. Power output per liter of cylinder displacement places it among market leaders for performance efficiency. The engine reaches maximum torque at 1,950 rpm, thanks to a larger cylinder bore and a turbo from KKK, with a maximum charging pressure of about 1 bar. The high charging pressure significantly 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. The emission standards of the R engine satisfy American LEV requirements. To withstand the increased stress, pistons and connecting rods are heavily reinforced and cylinder head cooling is enhanced. The oil sump is designed to safeguard oil supply to the engine under extreme G-forces.

Performance by Volvo also means the safety of handling and control that comes from the unique Volvo Four C (Continuously Control 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 state-of-the-art flagship sport sedan.