Solid, safe, sporty and smooth.  Volvo’s new 2013 S60 with a revised engine delivers the assured driving that we know as Volvo and adds a boost of sporty, power-driven energy. Now available for 2013, is an all wheel drive option making this car a prime choice for New England moms as well as anyone seeking outdoor adventure and all-season driving.  Rain sensor windshield wipers and headlight washers now standard on all models make the S60 ready for any weather.

The overall S60 design is pleasing to the eye.  Swedish artistic lines, a low roof line and just the right amount of curves create a sporty, sophisticated look.   And the interior is one of those cabin spaces that makes me relax and say, “Ah” the moment I’m seated behind the wheel.  Clean, simple aesthetics, an elegant waterfall center stack and comfortable seats exude a positive feng shui.  All to create an inviting, serene environment.

Volvos and moms have always gone hand in hand.  The new S60 is no exception, it’s just that now Mom has no reason to feel too sexy for her Volvo.  This sedan is on par with some of the best lookers, sharing the road with its A4, G37 and 3 series competitors.  The driving may not be as robust, however the I-5, 2.0 liter turbocharged engine is playful and competent.  On twists and turns, I was impressed with its responsiveness.  For more exciting driving, I would have liked to try the S60 T6 which puts out 300-hp and 325 ft-lb of torque.

All the ingredients for mom travel are there – easy to use latches, a roomy backseat and plenty of trunk space.  Even more, the S60 comes with additional safety features exclusive to Volvo.  Pedestrian Detection, which alerts the driver to a pedestrian in front of the car automatically brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time.  City Safety prevents collisions with a vehicle ahead at speeds under 31mph.  If the velocity sensor detects an impending collision, it automatically activates the brakes to prevent a rear-end collision or lessen the impact.

With top notch safety, good looks and sporty, inspired driving, the 2013 Volvo S60 is hard to beat.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $31,750 
engine: 2.0 L Turbo, I-5
hp/torque: 250 hp/266 ft-lb.
drivetrain: FWD/AWD
fuel economy:  21 city/30 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  Good.

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
solid, sporty, luxurious

What’s the best thing about it?
great all around sedan

What’s the biggest drawback?
base model could use more power

Mom-friendliness score: A-

Driver-friendliness score: B+

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“So long boxy behind……”