Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) has just unveiled the updated S60 model, now featuring the company’s modular Drive-E powertrain. This mechanical update also comes with a new transmission – an eight-speed torque converter automatic.
The S60 is a direct competitor to the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4. Previously, VCM offered the S60 in two trims, the T4 and T5, both of which are now no longer offered. In their places is this T6 variant, powered by a transversely mounted 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that is turbocharged and supercharged to produce 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
Drive is sent to the front wheels (no all-wheel drive here) through a new Aisin-sourced eight-speed automatic. Given the price, the S60 certainly has plenty to write home about in the performance department. It sprints from 0 to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, maxes out at 230km/h and consumes just 6.7 litres of fuel per 100km travelled. Comparatively, the pricier BMW 330 (RM298k) and Mercedes-Benz C300 (RM308k) match the S60’s 2.0-litre displacement, but the Germans pack just 252 hp and 245 hp respectively.
The cabin of the S60 remains identical to the facelift model introduced here back in early 2015, so it still comes with the digital instrument cluster. One thing the T6 has over the older T4 and T5 is paddle shifters – fitting toys to fiddle with, considering the amount of grunt you have up front.
As with any Volvos, safety is of the utmost priority. Here, the S60 T6 is equipped with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology, City Safety, Active Cornering Light, Blind Spot Information System, Cross Traffic Alert, Road Sign Information and two new systems – Park Assist Pilot and Lane Keeping Aid.
The S60 T6 is locally assembled at the Swedish Motor Assemblies in Shah Alam and is priced at RM280,888.00 (OTR without insurance). It can be had in five colours, namely ice White, Seashell, Ember Black, Saville Grey and Bright Silver. There are plenty more genuine accessories to complement your purchase, so be sure to drop by your nearest authorised Volvo dealership today!
