Volvo S60 Diesel R-Design

The Volvo S60 Diesel R-Design, though not currently available in India, was a standout in the luxury sedan segment. It featured a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder Drive-E diesel engine that delivered 181bhp and 400Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The R-Design trim added a sporty touch with a unique front bumper, mesh airdam, and newly designed fog lamp assembly. The interior was characterized by its comfortable and allergy-tested leather seats, a feature-rich instrument cluster, and a premium feel. Safety was a strong point, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking. The car also boasted a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a Bowers Wilkins sound system. Despite its front-wheel drive configuration, the S60 R-Design handled well, with minimal understeer unless driven aggressively. Overall, it offered a unique blend of performance, comfort, and exclusivity that made it an attractive choice for those seeking a luxury sedan with a Swedish twist.

The Volvo S60 Diesel R-Design is a compelling option for those seeking a luxury sedan that stands out from the typical German offerings. While it may not be the most potent performer in its class, it excels in comfort, safety, and exclusivity. The R-Design trim adds a sporty flair with its angular foglight housings, prominent exhausts, and a dark, business-like interior. However, the low-speed ride can be a bit jiggly, especially with the optional 20-inch wheels. Despite this, the S60 R-Design offers a unique blend of Swedish design, robust safety features, and a premium driving experience that makes it a worthy consideration for those looking to avoid the mainstream choices.

The Volvo S60, including the Diesel R-Design variant, is set to be discontinued in the US market by June 2024, marking the end of its production run. This decision aligns with Volvos strategy to transition towards an all-electric lineup. While this does not directly affect the Indian market, it hints at a global shift away from traditional fuel options. I think this move will push other markets to consider similar transitions, potentially impacting the availability of diesel variants globally.

For the 2024 model year, the Volvo S60, including the R-Design trim, does not receive any significant updates. Minor changes include the introduction of a new Vapour Grey metallic paint and the standardization of the Dark exterior theme. The high-performance Polestar Engineered model has also been discontinued. This lack of major updates might make the current model feel a bit stale compared to newer competitors.

The Volvo S60 R-Design, while stylish and luxurious, leans more towards being a comfortable cruiser rather than a sports sedan. It features a 247-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and optional all-wheel drive, but lacks the sporty feel of rivals like the BMW 3-series. The interior is plush with upscale materials, but the driving experience is more subdued. I believe this makes it perfect for those prioritizing comfort over performance.

The Volvo S60 R-Design can be equipped with the Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain, which boosts power to 455 horsepower and adds up to 41 miles of electric-only range. This option significantly enhances the vehicles performance and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those seeking both power and eco-friendliness. I think this hybrid option is a game-changer for the S60.

The Volvo S60 R-Design continues to excel in safety, with a myriad of standard driver assists and advanced safety features. These include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping system, and a 360-degree camera system. Volvos commitment to safety is a major selling point for this vehicle. I believe safety-conscious buyers will find this very appealing.

In India, the Volvo S60, particularly the R-Design variant, is priced at around Rs 45.90 lakh ex-showroom. However, its important to note that the current market does not offer a diesel R-Design variant instead, the available model is the T4 Inscription with a petrol engine. If you were to consider the closest diesel variant from previous models, the price would have been slightly lower, but still within the Rs 40-45 lakh range. On-road prices can vary depending on the state and local taxes, but you can expect to add around Rs 5-7 lakh to the ex-showroom price, bringing the total to approximately Rs 50-52 lakh. This pricing positions the S60 competitively against its German rivals, offering a unique alternative with its own set of strengths.

The mileage of the Volvo S60 Diesel R-Design, although not the current offering, was respectable for its segment. The 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder Drive-E diesel engine produced 181bhp and 400Nm of torque, and it was known for its efficient performance. In real-world conditions, you could expect around 12-15 kml in city driving and up to 18-20 kml on highways. However, since the current model available in India is the petrol T4 Inscription, the mileage would be significantly lower, typically ranging from 8-12 kml in city driving and up to 15 kml on highways.