The 2007 Volvo S60

Volvo has revealed details of the new 2007 model of its S60 sports saloon which has been refined with new chassis and suspension settings to make it more enjoyable to drive, along with subtle interior and exterior refinements to give it added style and quality.

"We're making the S60 sportier in every respect," says Gerry Keaney, senior vice president marketing, sales and customer service, "We've fine-tuned the chassis to create greater driver appeal and subtly spiced up the design," he continued.

More fun to drive

Volvo has developed a new Dynamic chassis for the S60 models, plus a revised Sport chassis for the Sport model, to make the new 2007 S60 feel sportier to drive, without compromising on ride quality.

Firmer shock absorbers front and rear with 24 per cent stiffer springs increase the car's torsional rigidity and grip by about 25 per cent, while the front and rear anti-roll bars are up to eight per cent stiffer to reduce body roll. Improved steering feel is achieved thanks to bushes which are now solid to reduce torque steer and create a better combination of confident road manners and supple ride.

In addition, the Volvo active Four-C chassis (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept) based on the high-performance S60 R will still be available for 2007 models offering the option of personalising the driving experience with Comfort and Sport modes available at the touch of a button.

Performance continues to be a priority for the 2007 Volvo S60 with the powerful range of five-cylinder engines still including four petrol, two diesel and one Bi-Fuel: 2.0T (180PS), 2.5T (210PS), T5 (260PS), R (300PS) petrol units; plus two diesels, the 2.4D (163PS) and D5 (185PS) and Bi-Fuel CNG.

Exterior design

The S60's sleek coupé-like design has only needed subtle evolutionary changes to keep it fresh and modern. For the 2007 model, this includes the addition of a lower front spoiler¹ inspired by the all-new S80, plus a bigger grille with a larger, more pronounced Volvo 'iron mark' badge in its centre.

More noticeable are the new door mirrors which now incorporate the side indicators, new alloy wheels and Active Bi-xenon headlights that swivel to optimise their beam and improve the driver's view of the road ahead.

New exterior colours include Orinoco blue and Maple red pearl paint plus Inscription Electric silver (previously only available on the high-performance R model).

Interior design

The S60's interior is enhanced with quality touches like satin chrome inlays on the air vents, switches, column stalks and between the remote controls on the steering wheel, plus a new 'grid aluminium' inlay for the doors and dashboard. The indicators also gain the convenience of a 'one-touch' function.

There is also a new sports steering wheel with perforated leather and silver insert, sport gear knob and handbrake, also with perforated leather. A new optional two-tone 'Imola' sports leather upholstery with two grades of leather in contrasting colours is also introduced.

Availability

Prices and specifications are expected to be announced in late spring ahead of the first models appearing in showrooms in July.