Currently reading: Volvo 'tweaks S60 platform'
Mondeo chassis mods designed to deliver Swedish firm's best-handling car yet

Volvo has re-engineered the Ford Mondeo/Volvo S80 platform that underpins the new S60 to deliver its target of the best-handling saloon the firm has ever made.

The S80’s Control Blade rear suspension is carried over, but is now aluminium to reduce weight for better ride and handling. "The geometry is the same, but it's much lighter," said product boss Hans Nilsson.

See the Volvo S60 gallery here

The S60's new steering column is made from stiffer steel to provide more precise steering. The S60 gets stiffer bushings than the S80/Mondeo and redesigned front struts that resist cornering forces better.

Another important detail is the switch to alloy brake calipers, which cut unsprung weight for dynamic improvements.

Twitter - follow autocar.co.ukSee all the latest Volvo reviews, news and video

Join the debate

Comments
11
Add a comment…
Volvophile 10 March 2010

Re: Volvo 'tweaks S60 platform'

mr.p wrote:
I have driven a pre-production S60 a few weeks ago and even then the ride is quite good, much better than the Audi A4.

But isn't that like saying herpes is better than aids?

The Audi A4 rides terribly.

Lee23404 10 March 2010

Re: Volvo 'tweaks S60 platform'

mr.p wrote:

I have driven a pre-production S60 a few weeks ago and even then the ride is quite good, much better than the Audi A4.The S60 steering is an inprovement but no match to the 3-Series.

I saw three of these new S60's on Swedish plates last week and they looked stunning. Being tested on UK roads so we get a specific set up maybe? Hope so.

mr.p 10 March 2010

Re: Volvo 'tweaks S60 platform'

I have driven a pre-production S60 a few weeks ago and even then the ride is quite good, much better than the Audi A4.The S60 steering is an inprovement but no match to the 3-Series.