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2002 Volvo S60
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| Volvo gets in the AWD groove |
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 21:59:56 |
| Rating |
 178 ( -22 -12.35% ) | | Author | Brian Chee |
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Description:
2002 Volvo S60 AWD
Volvo gets in the AWD groove
Writer's Notes
New for 2002
AWD system
Standard electric foldable rear headrests
Optional enhanced Volvo Navigation System with single disk for US, larger screen, optional remote control and increased functionality
Improved throttle response for 2.4T and T5
Stability & Traction Control for 2.4T, AWD and T5
Available Dynamic Stability & Traction Control (DSTC) for T5
Sunroof is standard for 2.4, 2.4T and AWD
Volvo stands up on its own with swooping lines and a very distinguished grill. The grill makes a big impact--in fact, it's a critical difference between competitive sedans.
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It used to be that you knew a Volvo on sight. The shoebox-on-wheels styling, the tank-like defensive handling…the smiling occupants who knew they were safe. A Volvo was as unmistakable as a Swede on the beach. Thankfully, that's no longer the case. Nowadays, the Volvo looks downright curvy. Whoever said Swedes can't be sexy has never seen the 2001 Volvo S60. And that's not just sexy in a pig-tails and hot chocolate sort of way.
Of course, somethings never change, and thankfully, Volvo's dedication to safety is one thing that doesn't waver. It's fair to say that Volvo has made their name on safe, dependable cars, and the S60 does nothing to disabuse us of that notion. The S60 comes standard with a Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) (side impact airbags and Inflatable Curtain), Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS), seat belts with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners, dual-stage front airbags (SRS), and Volvo's safety cage construction.
Looks
Could there be a little German in the mix? Aren't all mid-sized sedans influenced by the benevolent God of the mid-size, BMW's 325I? Yes, the Volvo S60 looks a bit like the BMW 3-Series. And baseball general managers are looking for pitchers who look like Nolan Ryan. Who cares except maybe BMW designers? Through the similarities, the Volvo stands up on its own with swooping lines and a very distinguished grill. The grill makes a big impact--in fact, it's a critical difference between competitive sedans.
Think of the S60 as a 35-year-old with graying temples.
Driving
It almost drives as good as a 325, too, which is saying something. The difference isn't enough to bother most normal people, and those who notice probably wouldn't be in the market for a Volvo anyway. On long and straight highways, the S60 slides comfortably into a nice cruising speed. It's not a racer but a mid-sized sedan that can pick up her skirts and get down the road, or settle into a long and powerful gait. Passing power is more than ample. There's a 5 cylinder engine that standard on all models, and that's nice--but if you can, jump up to the 197-horsepower 2.4T. All S60s come with Multi-Port Fuel Injection.
The S60 AWD features an electronically controlled, Active-On-Demand (AOD) all-wheel-drive system that distributes power between the front and rear wheels.
The electronic system senses the road condition, and determines AWD activity. For example, on a loose surface, the AWD system reacts instantly with full power.
Controlled through an electronic module mounted on the rear differential, the AWD system uses sensor signals to control oil pressure on the wet clutch plates by adjusting a control valve. The oil pressure on the wet clutch plates determines the torque that can be transferred to the rear wheels. Oil flow begins when a difference in spped is detected.
The electronic system senses the road condition, and determines AWD activity. For example, on a loose surface, the AWD system reacts instantly with full power. During low speed cornering or parking, the system does not enage. Beginning in 2002, the Volvo S60 AWD will also be available with DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) for better driving control.
Late for a date on the other side of the Utah Red Rocks, I really pushed the S60's handling capability. And through pretty hearty twists and turns, the S60 kept its cool--even when I pushed it out on the corner and whipped past an 18-wheeler.
Yeah. Imagine doing that in a Volvo.
Comfort
It would never happen back in the old days, when the Volvo was square and you could trust your neighbor. Back then, amenities like comfort were limited to a seat that went back and a center console interior light. But that was back when Volvo owners used to say "…yeah, but it's safe. And you know how long Volvos last…" and everyone would nod their head and agree.
Now look at how things have ended up. The S60 has one of the coolest cockpits around; the front seats are more comfortable than my living room sofa, even if the tank-feel of sitting into the car is still a bit present. But that's the front, and therein lies the key to comfort in the S60: don't sit in the back, especially if you're on the Hungry Big Man side.
If you're in the market for a notoriously safe mid-sized sedan with hot looks and enough kick to remind you of that mule trip down the Grand Canyon, put the Volvo S60 on your short list.
--Story by Brian Chee |
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