We're another month into our yearlong test of the 2012 Volvo S60 and, while there are still a few gripes from staff members about the operation of the various electronic interfaces, there has been almost nothing but universal praise for the Volvo's dynamic performance and build quality. In fact, we like the vehicle so much that it's been difficult to get much seat time in it.
"Need more proof that our editorial staff loves this car? This S60 has been under our stewardship for almost three months now, and there are still some of us who've never had a chance to slip behind the wheel. Until the other night, I thought I'd be resigned to that list for the foreseeable future," kvetched associate web editor Evan McCausland.
Once in the car, however, McCausland was able to see what all the fuss was about.
"I love quite a bit about this car, including the powerful turbo-six, the seamless power delivery, and the well-tuned transmission, but I can't quite get over just how good this interior is. Everything inside feels solidly built and substantial, and every plastic -- even those that look as if they'll feel hard and cheap -- is blessed with a soft touch and pleasant texture."
McCausland isn't the only one impressed with the interior. Editor in chief Jean Jennings waxed poetic about the leather upholstery: "It is ruggedly spectacular, with a hefty pebbled grain. Every seam is doubled stitched, making it look like fine luggage, or a saddle, or something really crafted and not just decorated. The color is also like a fine saddle or a well-oiled baseball glove. Sitting in our Four Seasons Volvo is supremely satisfying to me. You should go to a Volvo dealer just to run your hands over one of these fine hides." In fact, the leather used in the interior is "beechwood brown," a color that the company used in the 1960s on the P1800 and in the 1970s on the 164. It was resurrected for the 2011 S60.
