The Volvo S60 continued its reign as a celebrated sedan in 2013, earning accolades for its stunning design, engaging driving experience, sophisticated powertrains, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional value proposition. The 2013 model year marked an exciting evolution for Volvo’s sportiest and most dynamic offering, introducing refined trim levels and a host of enhancements to further amplify its appeal.
For those seeking enhanced all-weather capability, 2013 marked the first time Volvo’s advanced All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction became available for the value-driven S60 T5. This system, designed to provide optimal grip across diverse driving conditions – be it wet, slippery, or dry roads – was offered as a standalone $2,000 option for any S60 T5 configuration.
2013 Volvo S60 T5: Pricing and Trim Options
To cater to a wider range of preferences and budgets, Volvo presented the 2013 S60 T5 in several trim levels, each offering a distinct blend of features and luxury. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2013 Volvo S60 lineup were as follows:
- S60 T5: $31,900
- S60 T5 Premier: $34,100
- S60 T5 Premier Plus: $35,250
- S60 T5 Platinum: $37,950
- S60 T6 AWD: $40,650
- S60 T6 AWD Premier Plus: $41,800
- S60 T6 AWD Platinum: $44,500
- S60 T6 AWD R-Design: $44,100
- S60 T6 AWD R-Design Platinum: $46,800
(Destination charge: $895)
These trim levels were designed to streamline the selection process for buyers, packaging previously optional equipment into convenient tiers. Customers could still opt for the base S60 T5, T6 AWD, and R-Design models or elevate their experience with the newly introduced trim levels.
Engine and Performance Upgrades for the Volvo S60 T5
The heart of the Volvo S60 T5, its standard 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, received notable mechanical enhancements for the 2013 model year. These improvements focused on increasing the compression ratio from 9.0:1 to 9.5:1 and reducing internal friction. These changes, coupled with quicker gear shifts in sport mode, resulted in enhanced acceleration. The front-wheel-drive S60 T5 could now sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, a notable improvement from the previous year’s 6.8 seconds. When equipped with the optional All-Wheel Drive, the 0-60 mph time was clocked at a brisk 6.6 seconds. The engine continued to deliver a robust 250 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, ensuring ample power for both city driving and highway cruising.
Enhanced Standard Features Across the 2013 S60 Range
Volvo enriched the already extensive list of standard features on all S60 models for 2013. Rain sensor windshield wipers and headlight washers became standard across the range, enhancing convenience and visibility. A particularly innovative addition was the new Tunnel Detection feature, which automatically activated the headlights upon entering a tunnel and seamlessly reverted to the previous light setting upon exit. The S60 T5 also gained dual polished exhaust pipes as a new standard styling element. Moving up to the T6 AWD models, further standard enhancements included a power passenger seat, a power glass moonroof, and Keyless Drive with Personal Car Communicator (PCC), adding layers of luxury and convenience.
Decoding the 2013 Volvo S60 T5 Trim Levels
The new trim levels for the 2013 S60 were thoughtfully curated to bundle popular optional features, offering customers a simplified and value-added approach to customization.
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S60 T5 Premier: Building upon the standard T5, the Premier trim added a power glass moonroof, luxurious leather seating surfaces, Keyless Drive with Personal Car Communicator (PCC), a power passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an Accessory Prep cable, enhancing both comfort and convenience.
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S60 T5 Premier Plus: Stepping up to the Premier Plus trim, available for both the T5 and T6 AWD, brought active dual Xenon headlights for improved nighttime visibility, front and rear park assist for maneuvering ease, a Homelink remote garage door opener, and a compass integrated into the rearview mirror (along with an Accessory Prep cable for the T6 AWD).
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S60 T5 Platinum: The Platinum trim, offered across all S60 models, emphasized technology and premium audio. It incorporated the Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby® Pro Logic® II Surround Sound, boasting 12 premium speakers and 650 watts for an immersive audio experience. Furthermore, it included a Navigation System with Real Time Traffic and Map Care, along with a rear park assist camera for added safety and convenience.
Despite these pre-configured trim levels, Volvo maintained flexibility, allowing customers to add option packages and select individual stand-alone options to further personalize their S60. Notably, heated rear seats became a new stand-alone option available across the entire 2013 S60 range.
Advanced Technology and Safety Features in the 2013 S60
Volvo’s commitment to safety and innovation shone through with the advanced technology integrated into the 2013 S60. The Technology Package, available across all S60 models, saw the debut of two new features:
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Active High Beam: This intelligent system automatically switched the headlights between high and low beams upon detecting oncoming traffic, maximizing visibility without dazzling other drivers.
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Road Sign Information (RSI): Utilizing the Forward Looking Camera (FLC), RSI displayed traffic speed signs on the instrument cluster, providing drivers with real-time speed limit information.
The Technology Package also encompassed a suite of existing advanced driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Queue Assist, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake (CWAB), Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake, Distance Alert (DA), Driver Alert Control (DAC), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW), reinforcing Volvo’s leadership in automotive safety. Standard safety features included City Safety, a collision mitigation system designed to prevent or lessen the severity of low-speed rear-end collisions.
The Performance-Oriented S60 T6 R-Design
For driving enthusiasts, the S60 T6 R-Design returned for 2013, delivering a heightened level of performance and sporty aesthetics. Powered by Volvo’s most potent six-cylinder engine at the time, a 3.0-liter turbocharged unit, the R-Design unleashed an impressive 325 horsepower and a substantial 354 lb.-ft. of torque. Compared to the standard T6 AWD, the R-Design boasted an additional 25 horsepower and 29 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in a quicker 0-60 mph sprint of just 5.5 seconds versus the T6 AWD’s 5.8 seconds.
To match its increased power, the S60 T6 R-Design featured performance-focused upgrades. The front disc brake diameter was increased to 13.2 inches for enhanced stopping power. The standard Sport Chassis was further refined with a strut brace under the hood to stiffen the body structure and improve steering response. Monotube dampers at the rear, stiffer springs, and firmer bushings contributed to sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience. Visually, the R-Design distinguished itself with a unique lower front fascia, glossy black grille, color-matched body components, matte finish details, and distinctive 18-inch “Ixion” alloy wheels. The interior featured sport seats, a sport steering wheel, sport pedals, and unique R-Design trim elements.
Chassis and Driving Dynamics of the 2013 Volvo S60 T5
The 2013 Volvo S60 T5 was engineered to provide a balance of engaging driving dynamics and comfortable ride quality. The T5 models came standard with the Touring Chassis, tuned for a comfortable ride, particularly on less-than-perfect road surfaces. The T6 AWD and R-Design variants featured the Dynamic Chassis, prioritizing control and agility. For those seeking even greater adjustability, the FOUR-C (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept) active chassis was available as an option on the S60 T6 AWD, allowing drivers to select between Comfort, Sport, and Advanced settings to tailor the suspension to their driving preferences. All S60 models were equipped with Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) and Corner Traction Control, enhancing handling and stability in various driving situations.
Striking Design and Refined Interior
The Volvo S60’s design was often lauded for its emotionally charged styling, projecting a sense of motion and dynamism. Its profile resembled a four-door coupe, characterized by a sleek roofline and a distinctive “double wave” contour along the lower body. The front fascia made a bold statement with a sculpted grille and V-shaped positioning lights. LED technology was strategically employed for the front positioning lights, side marker lights, turn signals, and taillights, creating a distinctive and modern lighting signature. Inside, the S60 T5 offered a refined and driver-focused environment. Sport front and rear seats, a sport leather steering wheel, and Shimmer Graphite aluminum inlays were standard. Urbane Wood inlays were available as an option for those seeking a warmer ambiance. The Volvo Sensus system managed vehicle functions and infotainment, displayed on a seven-inch high-definition color monitor. A standard high-performance audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the available Premium Sound System incorporated Audyssey Laboratories’ MultiEQ technology for optimized acoustics.
Conclusion: The 2013 Volvo S60 T5 – A Compelling Choice
The 2013 Volvo S60 T5 presented a compelling package of style, performance, technology, and safety. With its enhanced engine, new trim levels, and expanded list of standard features, the S60 T5 solidified its position as a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment, offering a dynamic and sophisticated driving experience with exceptional value. Whether prioritizing fuel efficiency, all-weather capability with AWD, or a balance of luxury and performance, the 2013 Volvo S60 T5 offered a variety of configurations to meet diverse driver needs and preferences.
