Volvo has set the benchmark so high for safety that it puts Indian manufacturers to shame and keeps other European brands on their toes. Not even the C Class or A4 can compete with the safety features on offer in Volvo’s latest edition for the Indian Market – the S60.
The bottom end variant costs you Rs 27 lakh ex-showroom Delhi and comes loaded with everything a careful and diligent driver should hope for. Besides the standard ABS, driver and passenger 2 step airbags, Immobilizer and Child safety locks, it also features Dynamic stability traction (DSTC), Advanced stability control, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Intelligent driver information system (IDIS), Whiplash protection front seats and Pyrotechnical pretensioners for the front and rear seats. The list goes on. In fact, all three variants of the S60 feature the exact same safety technology.
Even though the S60 may be the safest entry level sedan from a European manufacturer, it’s best not to assume that this is a modest family carrier. The S60 is actually very sporty and packs a powerful engine. The smallest engine variant is the 2.4 litre 5-cylinder diesel which can summon 205 horses @ 4000rpm, and boasts a hefty 420Nm @ 1500rpm of torque. If you’re willing to spend a little more than Rs. 30 lakh, you can pick up the 3.0 litre T6 diesel engine which can produce 302bhp @ 5600rpm. The S60 is a viable competitor for the entry level Indian luxury sedan and will compete directly against the 3 Series and the C Class. The S60 has fresher looks and Swedish luxury and safety which is sought the world over.
