The 2012 Volvo S60 marked a significant step in Volvo’s journey, showcasing a blend of luxury and sporty performance in a sedan. This model year introduced the R-Design variant, adding a new dimension of driving excitement to the already well-regarded S60 lineup. For those in automotive repair, understanding the nuances of each S60 model is crucial. Let’s delve into the details of the 2012 S60 Volvo, exploring the T5, T6 AWD, and R-Design AWD trims.
2012 Volvo S60 T5: Standard Features and Reliable Performance
The S60 Volvo T5 served as the entry point to the lineup, yet it was far from basic. It boasted a robust 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine was paired with a smooth six-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission, ensuring a comfortable and responsive driving experience.
Beyond performance, the S60 Volvo T5 prioritized safety and technology. Standard features included:
- City Safety: Volvo’s innovative system designed to help mitigate or avoid low-speed collisions.
- Advanced Stability Control and Corner Traction Control: Enhancing handling and stability in various driving conditions.
- Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) with sport mode: Allowing drivers to tailor the driving dynamics to their preferences.
- Volvo Sensus with integrated 7-inch color display: A central hub for infotainment and vehicle settings.
- High performance multimedia audio system with Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth, and HD Radio: Providing a comprehensive entertainment experience.
- Comfort and Convenience Features: Power driver seat with memory, sport leather steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and split-folding rear seats.
These standard features in the S60 Volvo T5 underscored Volvo’s commitment to safety, technology, and driver comfort, even in its base model.
2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD: Enhanced Power and All-Wheel Drive Capability
Stepping up to the S60 Volvo T6 AWD brought a significant boost in performance and capability. It featured a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. The inclusion of All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction provided enhanced grip and control, especially in challenging weather conditions.
Building upon the T5’s features, the S60 Volvo T6 AWD added:
- Leather seating surfaces: Elevating the interior luxury.
- 18-inch “Sleipner” alloy wheels: Enhancing the vehicle’s stance and aesthetics.
- Dynamic Chassis and Speed-sensitive steering: Further refining the driving dynamics and handling.
- Convenience Upgrades: Auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass and Homelink integrated garage door opener.
- Dual polished exhaust tips: Adding a touch of sporty styling.
The S60 Volvo T6 AWD was designed for drivers seeking more power and all-weather confidence without sacrificing the luxury and safety features Volvo is known for.
2012 Volvo S60 R-Design AWD: Sport-Focused Performance and Styling
The pinnacle of the 2012 S60 Volvo lineup was the R-Design AWD. This model amplified the performance and styling, catering to driving enthusiasts. The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine was further tuned to deliver 325 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. The Sport Chassis sharpened the handling, while unique R-Design elements set it apart visually.
Exclusive features of the S60 Volvo R-Design AWD included:
- Increased Horsepower and Torque: A noticeable performance upgrade over the T6 AWD.
- Sport Chassis and 18-inch “Ixion” alloy wheels: Optimized for more dynamic handling.
- R-Design Exterior Styling: Unique lower front spoiler, air intake, rear diffuser, grille, rear spoiler, and silk metal accents.
- R-Design Interior Enhancements: Embossed leather sport seats, blue watch dial instrument cluster, aluminum inlays, sport steering wheel, gearshift lever, and floormats.
- Power glass moonroof and Active dual Xenon headlights: Adding both luxury and enhanced visibility.
The S60 Volvo R-Design AWD was the performance-oriented choice, offering a sportier driving experience and distinctive styling cues that reflected its enhanced capabilities.
Available Packages and Standalone Options for the 2012 S60 Volvo
To further personalize the S60 Volvo, several packages and standalone options were available:
- Premium Package (T5 and T6 AWD): Including power glass moonroof, leather seating surfaces (T5), power passenger seat, auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass (T5), Homelink (T5), and Active dual Xenon headlights (T6).
- Climate Package: Featuring heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, rain sensor windshield wipers, headlight washers, and Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).
- Dynamic Package (T5): Upgrading to 18-inch “Sleipner” alloy wheels, Dynamic Chassis, and speed-sensitive steering.
- Multimedia Package: Adding Volvo Premium Sound System, Volvo Navigation System with map care, and Rear park assist camera.
- Technology Package: Incorporating advanced driver aids like Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake, Pedestrian Detection, Distance Alert, Driver Alert Control, and Lane Departure Warning.
- Standalone Options: Metallic paint, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Personal Car Communicator (PCC), Urbane Wood inlays, park assist, Active dual Xenon headlights (T5), FOUR-C Active Chassis (T6), different wheel options, and Rear Entertainment System.
These options allowed buyers to customize their S60 Volvo to match their specific needs and preferences, further enhancing the appeal of this luxury sport sedan.
Conclusion
The 2012 S60 Volvo lineup offered a compelling range of models, from the well-equipped and efficient T5 to the powerful and sporty R-Design AWD. Each model provided a unique blend of performance, luxury, and Volvo’s renowned safety features. Understanding the specific features and options of each S60 Volvo variant is essential for automotive professionals and enthusiasts alike when working with or considering this model.
