If you haven't looked at Volvo recently, and you are looking for all-weather capability, now is a good time to do so. For 2013, the Volvo S60 has been updated with an AWD option that expands the luxury sedans capabilities. The new 2013 S60 also comes with new automatic wipers and headlight washers for extra convenience in cold weather climates. The luxury sedan competes in the entry-level luxury sedan segment with the Acura TL, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
This Volvo S60 AWD ($31,750) tester came with the Premier package ($2,200) with a power glass moonroof, leather seats, keyless entry and push button start. It also came with a Climate Package ($700) that makes it the ideal car for cold weather climates. It features heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles and an interior air quality system. The electronically controlled all-wheel drive system adds $2000 and comes with a Instant Traction a rear deck spoiler and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Quicker than last years model
Volvo says the new 2013 S60 T5's 0-60-mph time is nearly half a second quicker than last years model. It doesn't sound like much, but after driving the S60 AWD for a week, it certainly feels quicker. The S60 T5 s 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder makes 250 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque over a broad range. It comes mated to a new six-speed Geartronic automatic with Sport-mode for quick shifts.
The chassis delivers excellent handling. The S60 had plenty of power in the high country of Colorado and felt at home on the snowy roads up near Evergreen. The all-wheel-drive with instant traction worked flawlessly in four inches of powder the area received during the week. And the sport sedan handled the snow packed roads on the commute to Denver with ease. The T5 gets descent mileage at 20/29 city/highway, but it's hard to keep your foot out of the turbo which drains the tank and fuel mileage numbers considerably.
Turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is very satisfying
When the foot feed is pressed to the floor, the S60 makes it easy to pass on a two-lane road, as we did going from Morrison to Evergreen. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is very satisfying, quick and smooth. The six-speed automatic with the Sport-Mode allows the driver to make quick upshifts while taking the curves hard going uphill. The T5 turbo performs like a sporty sedan should and leaves the driving enthusiast satisfied with the experience. It's not intended to compete with the BMW 3 Series or the Audi S4, but it shouldn't be expected to for the price.
Volvo has a unique take on how they use wood
The S60's interior is luxurious and the leather sport seats were comfortable and supportive while drive aggressively in the corners. The quality of materials in the 2013 Volvo S60 are on par with the rest of the entry-level luxury sedan class and the fit and finish is typical for the Swedish car. Volvo has a unique take on how they use wood and metal accents which gives the S60 more personality than most of the competition in this price range.
The back seat isn't quite as accommodating as the front seat. The seats are supportive, but legroom and foot room are tight for taller adults. Both rear seats and the front passenger seat fold down giving the S60 plenty of cargo room. And for taking the sport sedan to the slopes, there's a separate ski pass-through making it easy to transport skis inside. The trunk has a 12-cubic-foot capacity which is somewhat small for the class, but a low liftover height makes it easy to access the space for carrying luggage.
The T5 is a great value
The 2013 Volvo S60 AWD is stylish and beautiful inside and out. Its leather and aluminum interior appointments are satisfying, and its function nearly flawless. The four-door T5 has great power when you need it and cornering with all-wheel drive is superb. The T5 is a great value with enough performance to satisfy. The T5 AWD offers good value, considering its power, safety engineering, comfort and style. It's definitely worth taking a look for the buyer interested in an all-weather entry-level luxury sport sedan.
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