What Changed for 2008:

• Standard auxiliary audio input and MP3 capability


• Standard WMA CD readability


• Premium package and T5 models receive 5-speed "Geartronic" transmission


• New Advanced package


• Standard satellite radio prep


• Standard 17-inch silver bright diamond cut "Cassiopeia" wheels (T5)


• Standard leather sport seating, glass sunroof, compass in rearview mirror (T5)


• Changes in optional paint colors

Overview
The Volvo S60—a 4-door sedan closely related to the V70 wagon—arrived in 2001 to replace the S70. In 2007, the S60 received a new grille, front bumper, outside mirrors, and a redesigned front spoiler for better aerodynamics and a more aggressive appearance. The S60's sporty driving character was also enhanced at that time with firmer front and rear shock absorbers and springs. For 2008, the S60 models gain standard auxiliary audio input and MP3 capability plus standard WMA CD readability. Options packages have been simplified and changes have been made to the color and trim choices. The second-generation S60 is scheduled to debut in 2009.

All 2008 Volvo models are covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile comprehensive Volvo New Car Warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile corrosion warranty. Volvo On-Call Roadside Assistance is standard for the first four years of ownership.

Model Lineup
There are three different S60 models for 2008: S60 2.5T, S60 2.5T AWD and S60 T5. All are 4-door sedans sharing the same chassis and body style. The T5 model is the performance version in the lineup. Standard equipment on all S60 models includes power windows, power door locks with keyless entry, cruise control, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system with air conditioning and pollen/dust filter. The standard audio system is a 100-watt, 6-speaker system with a single CD. A 325-watt, Premium sound system with Dolby Pro Logic II is optional on all versions. A DVD-based navigation system with remote control is also optional. The top-of-the-line S60 T5 is fitted for 2008 with standard leather sport seating, power glass sunroof, compass in the rearview mirror, satellite radio prep, upgraded 5-speed "Geartronic" transmission, and 17-inch wheels.

Several option packages are offered on the different models. On the S60 2.5T and 2.5T AWD, the new Advanced package includes a Premium sound system with in-dash, 6-disc CD player, rear park assist, aluminum inlays and Volvo's Interior Air Quality System (IAQS). The Advanced package for the T5 gains Active bi-Xenon headlamps, a rear spoiler and brushed aluminum door handles. Climate and Premium packages are also available.

Powertrain
All 2008 Volvo S60 models are turbocharged. The 2.5T models receive a turbocharged, 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine rated at 208 hp and 236 lb.-ft. of torque (EPA fuel economy estimates are in the 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway range, depending on model). The T5 models receive a more powerful turbocharged, 2.4-liter 5-cylinder engine rated at 257 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque (EPA fuel economy estimates are 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway). All Volvo S60 engines are designed to run on regular-octane fuel. The standard transmission is a 5-speed, microprocessor-controlled automatic. An upgraded 5-speed “Geartronic” transmission is standard on the T5 models and optional on both 2.5T models.

While the 2.5T and T5 models are front-wheel drive, Volvo’s all-wheel drive (AWD) with Instant Traction is standard on the S60 2.5T AWD. Volvo says the computer-controlled Haldex AWD system instantly delivers up to 50-percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff.

Suspension on all 2008 Volvo S60 models is a MacPherson strut design in the front, and a multi-link independent type in the rear. Hydraulic shocks and stabilizer bars are standard and all models receive 4-wheel disc brakes. The performance-oriented T5 models receive an upgraded sport suspension and an upgraded braking system featuring larger, more powerful disc brakes.

Safety
The 2008 Volvo S60 benefits from a comprehensive array of safety features. Dual-stage front air bags (SRS) and Volvo’s standard Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side air bags help protect front passengers from injury. An Inflatable Curtain (IC), the Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS), and seat belts with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners in all seating positions add to the level of safety. All models are equipped with Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) and a tire-pressure-monitoring system (TPMS). The ISO-FIX attachment for rearward-facing child safety seats is standard on all models. The 2001-2008 Volvo S60 has been crash tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The S80 earned a “Good” rating for the frontal offset test overall evaluation—the highest rating issued by the Institute. The side-impact test results were scored “Acceptable.” (The vehicle tested was equipped with front and rear head curtain air bags and front-seat-mounted torso air bags.)

Technology
The standard transmission on the 2008 Volvo S60 2.5T models is a traditional 5-speed automatic. Standard on the T5, and optional on the 2.5T models, is Volvo’s 5-speed “Geartronic” transmission. The Geartronic transmission is microprocessor-controlled and operates like a standard automatic transmission in the “D” mode, shifting automatically. However, it also features an “Auto-stick” function that allows the driver to manually switch gears much like a manual transmission. Compared to the standard 5-speed automatic, the gear ratios of the Geartronic are identical with the exception of the T5 which receives a slightly different final drive ratio.