The 2005 Volvo S60 R sees a number of changes for the new model year. Most significant is the body color moldings and trim, giving the car a more integrated, sophisticated appearance. A new exterior color, Magic Blue, adds yet another dimension to the S60 R's attractive body. An even more aggressive look may be obtained through the new optional Sport Body Package, which includes body color front and rear spoilers and side skirts. Inside, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound replaces the 4-CD head unit from last year.
The Volvo S60 R, unveiled at the 2002 Paris Motor Show, is packaged with the most powerful engine in the Volvo range. Volvo's highly evolved five-cylinder 2.5-liter in-line turbocharged power plant produces 300 horsepower and 295 ft. lbs. of torque between 1.950 and 5,250 rpm.
The R engine's power output per liter of cylinder displacement places it among market leaders for performance efficiency. The engine reaches maximum torque at 1,950 rpm, thanks to the larger cylinder bore and a new turbo from KKK, with a maximum charging pressure of about 1 bar. The high charging pressure significantly raises the temperature of the intake air, so the S60 R is fitted with twin intercoolers.
The engine is equipped with Dual Wide Range CVVT continuously variable valve timing, on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. CVVT adjusts the valve opening times to suit the engine speed and load, lowering fuel consumption and reducing emissions, while increasing performance. The emission standards of the R engine satisfy American LEV requirements and conform to the European Euro 4 standard.
To withstand the increased stresses, pistons and connecting rods have been heavily reinforced and cylinder head cooling has been improved. The oil sump has been re-designed to safeguard oil supply to the engine under extreme G-forces.
Six-speed manual gearbox
The Volvo six-speed manual gearbox is specially designed to handle the high torque delivered by the engine. The short-throw shifter allows fast gear changes enhancing the connectivity between the car and driver.
The optional 5-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission offers the best of both worlds: the gearbox takes care of all gear changes automatically, or the driver can change gears manually, without a clutch.
The automatic transmission is also adaptive. It monitors the drivers' driving style and adapts the gear-changing pattern accordingly. It also has a "Sport" mode selector in which the automatic transmission changes gears at a higher engine speed and downshifts faster.
Performance by Volvo also means the safety of handling and control that comes from the unique Volvo Four C (Continuously Control Chassis Concept). With this active chassis system, which compensates for road variances using a sophisticated network of sensors, Volvo's Haldex all-wheel-drive system, DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control), and "performance on demand" versatility, Volvo engineering is taking performance to the next level.
