The 2012 Volvo S60 marked a significant step for the Swedish manufacturer, boldly declaring itself as “the sportiest Volvo ever” upon its initial release. Expanding on this sporty ethos, Volvo introduced the enthusiast-focused S60 R-Design, further cementing the S60’s position as a dynamic and engaging sedan. For those seeking a blend of luxury, safety, and performance, the Volvo S60 T6, particularly in its All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configuration, presented a compelling option within this exciting model range.
Unveiling the Volvo S60 T6 AWD: Mid-Range Muscle
Positioned as the core performance model within the 2012 S60 lineup, the Volvo S60 T6 AWD shared its potent heart with the top-tier R-Design. At its core was a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, a powerplant that delivered a robust 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine was engineered for responsiveness, with peak torque arriving as early as 2,100 rpm and sustaining throughout the rev range, ensuring brisk acceleration and confident overtaking maneuvers in various driving scenarios.
This configuration allowed the Volvo S60 T6 AWD to achieve a 0-60 mph sprint in a respectable 5.8 seconds. While not sacrificing practicality, the fuel economy remained reasonable for its class, registering at 18 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway. This balance of power and efficiency made the T6 AWD a versatile choice for drivers who desired both spirited performance and everyday usability.
The Apex of Performance: Volvo S60 T6 AWD R-Design
For drivers craving the ultimate in S60 performance, the 2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD R-Design represented the pinnacle. Building upon the already impressive foundation of the T6 AWD, the R-Design amplified every aspect, resulting in what Volvo proclaimed “the sportiest and most dynamic Volvo ever.”
The R-Design variant boasted an enhanced version of the 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, pushing output to an exhilarating 325 horsepower and a commanding 354 lb.-ft. of torque. This marked a notable increase of 25 hp and 29 lb.-ft. over the standard T6 AWD, making it the most powerful six-cylinder engine Volvo offered at the time. The increased power translated directly to performance gains, with the 0-60 mph acceleration time dropping to a swift 5.5 seconds. Remarkably, despite the power boost, the fuel economy figures mirrored the T6 AWD, maintaining 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Beyond the engine enhancements, the S60 R-Design distinguished itself with a dedicated Sport Chassis. Volvo’s engineering team meticulously refined the already capable S60 chassis, incorporating several performance-enhancing components. A strut brace under the hood stiffened the body structure, sharpening steering response. At the rear, monotube dampers replaced the twin-tube units of the T6 AWD, offering quicker damper response through a more direct fluid flow.
Further contributing to the R-Design’s athletic character were front springs shortened by 15mm, giving it a more aggressive stance, and spring stiffness increased by 15 percent compared to the Dynamic Chassis of the T6 AWD. Bushings attaching the rear dampers to the body were stiffened by 20 percent, and the front tie-blade bushing saw a significant 400 percent increase in stiffness to minimize wheel bouncing and shaking.
Transmission and Drivetrain: Geared for Performance
Both the Volvo S60 T6 AWD and R-Design models utilized Volvo’s second-generation six-speed automatic Geartronic transmission with a dedicated sport mode. Upgrades in the form of new valves and reduced friction resulted in faster and smoother gear changes. As the name suggests, the T6 AWD and R-Design models featured a standard electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system with Instant Traction, complemented by Corner Traction Control with torque vectoring. This sophisticated system ensured optimal grip and handling in diverse driving conditions, further enhancing the sporty driving experience.
R-Design Styling: Visual Aggression
The Volvo S60 R-Design visually communicated its performance intentions through distinctive exterior and interior styling cues. The front fascia was redesigned with a more aggressive lower section and a glossy piano black grille. Color-matched body components and matte finish details emphasized the sporty stance, while a hexagonal pattern was subtly incorporated into the front and rear designs. The rear exhaust baffle integrated prominent 3 1/2-inch twin exhaust pipes. Unique 18-inch “Ixion” alloy wheels further accentuated the R-Design’s sporty appeal. An exclusive Passion Red paint option was offered, alongside four other color choices. A rear spoiler and standard Dual Xenon Gas Discharge Headlights with Active Bending Light (ABL) completed the exterior enhancements.
Inside, the R-Design featured sport seats with enhanced side bolsters and exclusive Off-Black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching and textured accents. Embossed R-Design logos adorned the front seat backrests. A sport steering wheel, gear selector, sport pedals, floor mats, and blue watch-dial instrument cluster further differentiated the R-Design interior.
Shared S60 DNA: Safety, Technology, and Design
While the T6 AWD and R-Design models emphasized performance, they retained the core attributes that defined the 2012 Volvo S60 lineup. All S60 models boasted advanced safety systems, including world-first technologies like Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake and City Safety. These systems exemplified Volvo’s commitment to safety innovation.
The S60 also offered a luxurious cabin equipped with the Volvo Sensus infotainment system, featuring a seven-inch high-definition color monitor. Standard features included a high-performance audio system with multiple inputs and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional upgrades included a premium sound system with Dolby Pro-Logic II Surround Sound and a navigation system.
The exterior design of the S60, across all models, was characterized by its emotionally charged styling, often described as “the Volvo with an attitude.” The coupe-like profile, distinctive shoulder line, and strategically placed LED lighting elements contributed to a dynamic and modern aesthetic.
Chassis and Driving Dynamics: Tailoring the Ride
The 2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD offered drivers a choice between the standard Dynamic Chassis, focused on control and agility, and the no-charge Touring Chassis option, prioritizing ride comfort. The optional FOUR-C (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept) active chassis further allowed drivers to customize the driving experience with Comfort, Sport, and Advanced settings. Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) and Corner Traction Control by Torque Vectoring were standard across the S60 range, enhancing handling and stability.
Conclusion: The Volvo S60 T6 – A Performance Sedan with Swedish Sensibility
The 2012 Volvo S60 T6, particularly in its AWD guise, represented a compelling entry in the performance sedan segment. Offering a potent turbocharged six-cylinder engine, available in standard 300 horsepower or enhanced 325 horsepower R-Design forms, the S60 T6 delivered engaging performance without sacrificing Volvo’s renowned safety, luxury, and distinctive design. Whether opting for the balanced T6 AWD or the aggressively sporty R-Design, drivers could experience a dynamic and refined driving experience that set the Volvo S60 apart in its class.
