The S60 Volvo entered its second generation in 2011, and the 2012 model year continued to build upon this successful redesign, offering a compelling blend of Scandinavian luxury, sporty performance, and Volvo’s renowned safety. The 2012 s60 volvo was available in three distinct trims: the T5, T6 AWD, and the performance-oriented T6 R-Design AWD, each catering to different driver preferences and needs. This article will explore the features and specifications of each trim level, providing a comprehensive overview for anyone considering a 2012 s60 volvo.
Volvo S60 T5: The Entry to Luxury and Safety
The s60 volvo T5 served as the base model but was far from basic, offering a generous array of standard features. Under the hood, it boasted a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine was paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission.
Alt: 2012 Volvo S60 T5 showcasing standard 17-inch Balder alloy wheels.
Volvo’s commitment to safety was immediately apparent with standard features like City Safety, an advanced collision avoidance system, and Advanced Stability Control. Corner traction control by torque vectoring further enhanced handling, while Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) with sport mode allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience.
The s60 volvo T5 rode on 17-inch “Balder” alloy wheels and featured a Touring Chassis for a comfortable ride. Inside, the Volvo Sensus system with a 7-inch color display took center stage, integrating the high-performance multimedia audio system, Sirius satellite radio (with a trial subscription), Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and audio streaming, and HD Radio.
Comfort and convenience features included a power driver seat with memory (linked to the rear view mirrors), a sporty leather steering wheel, Shimmer Graphite aluminum inlays, a leather gearshift knob, and T-Tec/textile upholstery covering the supportive front and rear sport seats. Dual-zone Electronic Climate Control (ECC), power folding rear head restraints, and a split-folding rear seat added to the practicality and comfort of the s60 volvo T5.
Volvo S60 T6 AWD: Upgraded Power and All-Weather Confidence
Stepping up to the s60 volvo T6 AWD brought a significant boost in performance and capability. It featured a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. As the name suggests, All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction was standard, providing enhanced grip and control in various weather conditions.
Alt: 2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD equipped with standard 18-inch Sleipner alloy wheels.
In addition to the T5’s features, the s60 volvo T6 AWD included leather seating surfaces and larger 18-inch “Sleipner” alloy wheels. The chassis was upgraded to a Dynamic Chassis for a more engaging driving experience. Speed-sensitive steering with driver-selectable settings allowed for further customization of the driving feel.
Interior enhancements included an auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass and a Homelink integrated garage door opener for added convenience. Dual polished exhaust tips provided a subtle visual upgrade to the exterior of the s60 volvo T6 AWD.
Volvo S60 T6 R-Design AWD: The Pinnacle of Sportiness
For drivers seeking maximum performance and a more aggressive aesthetic, the s60 volvo T6 R-Design AWD was the ultimate choice. While using the same 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine as the T6 AWD, the R-Design version was tuned to produce 325 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque, further amplifying the sporty character.
Alt: Front view of 2012 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design AWD highlighting unique front spoiler and grille.
The s60 volvo R-Design AWD distinguished itself with a Sport Chassis for sharper handling and 18-inch “Ixion” alloy wheels. Active dual Xenon headlights improved nighttime visibility, while a power glass moonroof added an open-air feel to the cabin.
The R-Design treatment extended to the exterior with a unique lower front spoiler and air intake, a rear diffuser, and distinctive 3 ½-inch polished exhaust tips. An R-Design grille with a black gloss finish and emblem, a rear spoiler, and Silk metal accents on mirrors and around windows further enhanced the sporty appearance of this s60 volvo.
Alt: Interior of 2012 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design AWD showcasing R-Design embossed leather sport seats and blue instrument cluster.
Inside, the s60 volvo R-Design AWD featured a power passenger seat, R-Design embossed leather sport seats, a unique R-Design blue watch dial instrument cluster, R-Design aluminum inlays, a sport steering wheel with the R-Design emblem, R-Design floormats, gearshift lever, and sport pedals, creating a truly sporty and unique interior environment.
Optional Packages and Standalone Features
Beyond the trim levels, the 2012 s60 volvo offered several optional packages to further customize the vehicle. The Premium Package (available for T5 and T6 AWD) added features like a power glass moonroof, leather seating surfaces (for T5), power passenger seat, auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass (for T5), Homelink (for T5), and Active dual Xenon headlights (for T6).
The Climate Package focused on comfort in colder climates, including heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, rainsensor windshield wipers, headlight washers, and the Interior Air Quality System (IAQS). The Dynamic Package (T5 only) upgraded the wheels to 18-inch “Sleipner” alloys and added the Dynamic Chassis and speed-sensitive steering.
For technology enhancements, the Multimedia Package included the Volvo Premium Sound System, Volvo Navigation System with map care, and a rear park assist camera. The Technology Package bundled advanced safety and driver assistance systems such as 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).
Standalone options offered further personalization, including metallic paint, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Personal Car Communicator (PCC) with Keyless Drive, Urbane Wood inlays, front and rear park assist, Active dual Xenon headlights (for T5), FOUR-C Active Chassis (for T6), different alloy wheel options, a Dual screen Rear Entertainment System, and navigation prep.
Conclusion: The Versatile 2012 Volvo S60
The 2012 s60 volvo presented a compelling range of options for buyers seeking a luxury sport sedan. From the well-equipped and safe T5 to the powerful and all-weather capable T6 AWD, and finally to the sporty and high-performance T6 R-Design AWD, there was an s60 volvo to suit various needs and preferences. With a wide array of standard features, optional packages, and standalone options, the 2012 s60 volvo allowed drivers to tailor their vehicle to their exact specifications, all while enjoying Volvo’s signature safety and Scandinavian design.
