THE NEW 2020 VOLVO S60 R-DESIGN SPORT SEDAN

VOLVO HAS PRODUCED A HUGELY IMPROVED OFFERING WITH THE LATEST S60 R MODEL.

Volvo is a globally trusted vehicle manufacturer, highly renowned for its intuitive design and immaculate safety record. Founded in 1927, the brand has gained huge popularity over the decades with 642, 253 cars being sold in around 100 countries, in 2018 alone. With an ever-improving array of models being produced, this label is sure to keep attracting fans for many years to come. This month, the fact magazine team were delighted to test drive Volvo’s new mid-sized premium sedan, the 2020 S60 R, compliments of Motorcity.

The overall exterior design of the S60 R is definitely an improvement on the previous generation. It exudes an athletic dynamism, combining refinement, high-end materials and clean, shapely lines. The high gloss black, R-Design grille with horizontal mesh adds to the car’s already appealing presence, whilst Thor’s hammer headlights add a further attractive touch to the front end. The 19-inch, five-spoke, matt black, diamond cut, alloy wheels look superb and augments the vehicle’s already distinguished appearance. The rear spoiler may be small, but it enhances the elegance and sporty demeanour of the S60 R and looks particularly good from a side view.

Entering the vehicle, we were greeted by comfortable contour seats and fine Nappa leather upholstery. The designers have taken a classic Scandinavian minimalistic approach without leaving the driver wanting for anything. Metal mesh aluminium inlays can be found throughout the interior and all materials have a premium feel to them. There is enough space in the rear to seat three people with class leading legroom and ample headroom on offer. The boot provides 442-litres of space, with its wide design allowing for the easy loading of large items.

The infotainment system is fast, responsive and user-friendly and includes a 9-inch, upright screen that is both well placed and reactive to voice commands. This tablet-style touch screen interface combines car functions, navigation, connected services and in-car entertainment apps. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 4G. It is also one of the few systems where you can access other features whilst CarPlay is open.

Our 2020 Volvo S60 R came with the T5 AWD, four-cylinder, direct injection, turbo petrol engine, complete with an eightspeed Geartronic™ automatic transmission. This capable engine produces 250 hp (183 kW) and 350 Nm of torque. This enables the S60 R to race from 0 – 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds as well as to generate a top speed of 240 km/h. The power on offer always seemed instantly accessible whilst the smooth gearbox provided perfect shift points. This car with its lowered chassis, hugs the road well and inspires confidence in the driver. These features combined with the breaking abilities of this model make the S60 R extremely fun to drive.

As you would expect from a Volvo, the safety features included are impressive and extensive. These include Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Distance Alert, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, City Safety with Steering Support, Lane Keeping Aid, Driver Alert Control, Electronic Stability Control, Brakes with Hill Start Assist & Automatic Hold, automatic breaking after collision, a safety cage in high-strength steel, the Side Impact Protection System (SIPS™), a collapsible steering column, side airbags, dual-stage airbags for both the driver and front passenger, head restraints, the Whiplash Injury Protection System (WHIPS™), protective front seats with energy absorbing seat structure as well as an energy absorbing interior. These, along with others, including child-specific safety features, may also be inlcluded on the S60 R.

The mid-size premium sports sedan segment seems to house some rather stiff competition these days, with several established brands producing models, all contending for the consuming public’s attention. Volvo however has managed to distinguish itself and generate interest in its offerings with its continuous design upgrades, unwavering dedication to the advancement of its safety features, as well as its everreasonable price tag. We strongly recommend that anyone looking to purchase a capable and classy compact sedan, book a test drive at Motorcity, to experience for themselves, what the S60 R has to offer. ✤