“This is far more than just a facelift,” says Steve Harper, Platform Chief designer. “We have made comprehensive changes – outside to enhance the car’s sporty profile, and inside to boost the sensation of quality and comfort.”
The 2005 Volvo S60 has been renewed in a large number of areas, which give the car a more aggressive appearance and character and at the same time emphasizes the ties to the rest of the Volvo range.
Bolder front with new headlamps
The front is entirely new, with a more distinct nose with rounder contours. The grille is larger and set somewhat lower to give a more dynamic stance. The grille in the S60 is black, as is the lower air intake, setting the sedan apart from the V and XC models. The dark headlamp surrounds and the round foglamps also help to create a distinct profile.
The headlamps are new, with clear lenses and high performance reflector design (for both the halogen and the optional Bi-Xenon lamps). At the same time, Volvo has switched from glass to plastic, which is lighter and more resistant to stone-chip damage. It is also gentler on pedestrians in the event of a collision. Volvo’s traditional headlamp wipers have been replaced with high-pressure washers set into pop-up nozzles.
The windshield wipers now feature integrated flat blades. They have a more modern appearance and produce less wind noise than traditional wiper blades. What is more, they apply more pressure on the windshield, which improves wiper effectiveness.
More trim and more choice
Color-matched side trim moldings are now standard and boost the coordinated impression of the 2005 S60. The lower bodyline (sills, lower door trims and lower part of the bumpers) is also body color.
The bumper corners feature decorative and practical protective moldings. They are color-matched as standard and can easily be replaced in the event of damage.
Harmonized rear design
The Volvo S60 has become sportier at the rear too. The tail lamps have a more technically inspired design with transparent glass and visible bulbs. The light pattern has also been changed.
“We have made it easier to recognize a Volvo from the rear in the dark,” explains Steve Harper. “At the same time, we have redesigned the bumper so it harmonizes better with the trunk’s sharply defined profile.”
The exhaust tailpipe too has been modified, with a high-gloss finish and proportions that better reflect the engine’s power. The 2.5T and T5 models feature chrome-plated tailpipes. Additionally, the cutout in the bumper skirt has been integrated more smoothly than before.
Interior with higher quality impression
Volvo’s designers have focused hard on making the interior comfortable and inviting.“We have spared no effort to ensure that the quality perception is the best imaginable,” says Steve Harper. “With homogeneous contours, natural materials, flexible functions and new trim alternatives, we aimed at reinforcing the feeling of Scandinavian design at its best.” For example, the center console – the car’s central control panel – has a slimmer design with a decorative surrounding frame in materials such as genuine walnut or authentic aluminum (light or dark). Even the panel’s dark-grey shade has been altered to provide better contrast with the controls and make them easier to use.
The audio system, which has been upgraded with Dolby Pro Logic II, now features separate buttons for quick selection of radio stations and functions, and the most advanced system has an integrated six-disc CD changer.
Smart center tunnel console with the emphasis on versatility
The tunnel console is entirely new, with a more homogeneous design and far stiffer construction than before. This considerably boosts the aura of quality. An elegant roller shutter conceals an illuminated compartment for storage that also includes improved cup holders.
The armrest between the front seats is also entirely new. “My design team and I are particularly proud of this,” comments Steve Harper. “It’s designed for what we consider to be the ultimate, multi-functional armrest. It has a number of practical features – cup holders, trays and a storage compartment that can be utilized in a variety of ways.” The rear armrest also has a new, more functional design with fixed cup holders and a higher-quality feel.
New generation of Volvo seats
A new generation of Volvo seats is now being introduced, offering improved seating comfort and more convenient adjustment. The seats have:
New upholstery
NORDBORG – Nordborg is a sporty new upholstery made of rubbery fabric with leather trim. Some surfaces are upholstered in vinyl of high quality, with a printed, leather-like pattern. Nordborg is available in three colors:
Accessory Sports Concept
With the new design package – Accessory Sports Concept – the S60 owner can give the car an extra-sporty feel. The package features:
