2005 Volvo S60

The 2005 S60 model line undergoes the most thorough redesign since it's launch in 2000 and continues to offer a wide range of engine and option-package choices while steadfastly holding true to Volvo's core values of safety, performance and value. Five iterations of the versatile S60 sedan are offered for 2005: the S60 2.4, S60 2.5T, S60 2.5T AWD, S60 T5 and the 300-horsepower S60 R (see separate S60 R Model Overview).

Exterior changes to the S60 line for 2005 give the car a leaner, more integrated appearance. Body color side moldings, redesigned headlamps and tail lamps and several new wheel options, including aggressive 18-inch alloy wheels, elevate the S60 to true sport-sedan status. The optional Sport Body Package includes body color side skirts, an integrated chin spoiler and trunk spoiler and is available on all turbocharged S60s. For 2005 Volvo's acclaimed Four-C Chassis system that was first seen on the S60 R is now available optionally on all turbocharged models. The system has been specifically tuned for the other S60 models and is selected by a single button on the dash that allows the driver to select between 'Comfort' and 'Sport' modes.

Highly evolved 5-cylinder engines have been a Volvo mainstay. For 2005, the T5 engine receives a number of upgrades including an increase in horsepower to 260 (up from 250 last year) and is mated to the same 6-speed manual transmission that is found in the S60 R.

Later in 2005, Volvo's new Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) will be available as an option (late availability, mid 2005 as a 2006 model). A digital camera that takes 25 pictures per second is installed on each door mirror. By comparing the pictures taken, the system can register when a vehicle is moving within the BLIS zone, which measures 31 feet long by 9.8 feet wide on either side of the car. The system is programmed to identify cars as well as motorcycles, in daylight as well as at night. Since BLIS is camera-based, however, it has the same limitations as the human eye does. This means the system will not function in conditions of poor visibility, for instance in fog or flying snow. In such a case, the driver receives a message that BLIS is not in action. It is also configured not to react to parked cars, road barriers, lampposts and other static objects. The system is active at all speeds above 6.2 mph. It reacts to vehicles that are driven a maximum of 12 mph slower and a maximum of 43.5 mph faster than the car itself. If the driver chooses, BLIS can be switched off via a button in the centre console.

The S60's cockpit optimizes the driving experience with a new center tunnel for 2005 that includes a versatile storage bin and a flexible cup holder that's designed to accept a number of various cup sizes. This year sees the second generation of Volvo's legendarily comfortable seats that are designed around orthopedic principles and a constellation of driver-centric creature comforts.

Source - Volvo