Volvo has again taken a step up with its S60. The mid-size model is the whole package, and is certainly a move in the right direction for the Swedish automotive juggernaut. Perhaps the most dynamic Volvo ever, both in terms of style and the drive.

Three S60 models are offered. The flagship model is the T6, offered with a 3-litre petrol engine or the D5 and D3 turbodiesels. There is also the S60-based wagon and the V60, which will be offered in early 2011.

Built from the structural mould of the larger Volvo flagship model, the S80, the S60 is strong, safe and enjoyable. A notable improvement is that rear legroom is now enhanced by 50mm.

The chassis work was reformed by Stefan Sallgvist, who aimed to produce a car that is “very predictable yet very responsive.” In keeping with this idea, the suspension has been recalibrated and reworked, incorporating 80% stiffer front springs.

The fit out is great – its not boxy, but rather it is sophisticated. Though there are touches of plastic, these actually look like metal. The steering wheel is attractive, as is the entire centre console, both of which are well-designed and very user friendly. Also thrown into the package are a great sound system and a solid performing aircon.

The packages for Down Under have not been finalized yet, however if all goes according to plan, Australia can expect a full lineup of S60 and V60 models (both petrol and turbodiesels, in six-speed manual and auto, as well as front-wheel drive and AWD). The range will also include high-tech torque vectoring, with the option of gear change paddles still under discussion.

The car is more spacious and sporty than any of its counterparts, and maintains the impeccable Volvo safety standard. The S60 incorporates numerous groundbreaking safety features, most notably the Pedestrian Protection feature. The S60 also gains standard City Safety (like its counterpart XC60), the brand’s latest advanced stability control, a full set of airbags and anti-skid brakes.

The drive is unexpectedly sporty, not only for a Volvo, but in general. It has a great cornering ability, reminiscent of BMW’s agile grip and rides like an Audi. It nimbly takes on tough roads and drivers can revel in the control of the grippy steering wheel and the comfort that cushy, supportive seats provide. Rear occupants can enjoy a similar comfort due to the enhanced space. Overall, its solid and precise, yet still maintains the prestigious comfort and quietness luxury-car-loving drivers are accustomed to.

The price point is noteworthy. The starting point is below $50,000 for the entry level variant in the class, well below the usual luxury vehicle price point. All in all, the S60 under-promises and definitely over-delivers.

Specifications:
• Price: Estimated below $50,000
• Sale date: Early 2011
• Body: 4 door sedan
• Engines: 3-litre petrol, 2.4-litre turbodiesel, 2-litre turbodiesel
• Power: 226kW, 125kW, 121kW
• Torque: 440Nm, 420Nm, 400Nm
• Transmission: Six-speed manual and auto
• All-wheel and front-wheel drive
• Economy: 9.9L/100km, 5.3L/100km, 5.3L/100km

???Competitors:
• Audi A4?
• BMW 3 Series
• ?Lexus IS?
• Mercedes C-Class