Volvo S60 T4 Teknik 2011 review

It's Volvo's stated aim to reduce the capacity of its engines to cut fuel use and emissions while at the same time improve performance. Seems like a contradiction in terms but is the way of the world and after our experience with the new Volvo S60 T4 1.6, yes a 1.6-litre medium luxury sedan, all looks pretty rosy for Volvo.

EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGY

Other (clever) car companies are doing something similar and we'll see the "small is good" engine philosophy gain momentum sooner rather than later. The S60 T4 long termer we have looks like any of the other S60 models, a sexy four door "coupe", typical Euro prestige drive. But the engine had us worried. Big car/small engine brings back memories of things like the Fiat Croma from years ago ... useless. But we should have known better gauged off say the Mercedes-Benz E250CGi - a large sedan powered by a 1.8-litre (turbo) four-cylinder, petrol engine. Goes like a train.

THE DRIVE

So does the Volvo S60 T4. The hi-tech, direct injection engine runs turbocharging and variable valve timing to optimise efficiency and that, readers, can be felt under your right foot. It gets straight onto boost from the get-go so there's plenty of kick off the mark and all the way through. At 1495kg it's no lightweight but the S60 T4 feels to have more punch than a 3.0-litre Commodore V6, more responsive and easier access to available torque.

HARD NUMBERS

The hard numbers are; 132kW/240Nm and fuel use of 7.4-litres/100km. Maximum torque comes in at a low 1600rpm. Having a six speed dual clutch Powershift "auto" helps stir matter along and also contributes to the car's smooth drive feel. This transmission really is something else.

Volvo is offering the T4 at a drive away price of $49,950 in the short term and you get five years free scheduled servicing, five years warranty and five years roadside assist for the spend. It's kitted out with the usual Volvo luxury and safety features, nothing left to spend really.

VERDICT

Why pay for something you don't need. The S60 T4 covers all the bases, well nearly, it might struggle with a 30 foot cruiser behind.

VOLVO S60 T4

Price: $49,950 driveaway
Warranty: 5 years/100,000km
Resale: 40 per cent
Safety equipment: ABS, DTSC, BA, City Safe
Crash rating: 5 stars
Engine: 1.6-litre turbo petrol 4-cyl; 132kW/240Nm
Body: four doors, five seats
Dimensions: 2,776mm (wb); 4,628 (L); 1,865(w); 1,484 (h)
Weight: 1495kg
Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch auto
Economy: 7.4L/100km; 173g/km.