Volvo S60 R

Although Volvo built its reputation on safe--and boxy--vehicles, that hasn't stopped the company from producing the occasional stormer. The 2006 Volvo S60 R sedan is the latest in a line that included 1995's cult classic, the T-5R. But the S60 R ups the ante with a host of computer-controlled functions to both produce speed and keep it under control. With styling befitting its capabilities, especially when outfitted with our test car's Sport Body Package, the S60 R looks the part both inside and out. Fortunately, the driving doesn't disappoint. A microprocessor-controlled six-speed automatic drives all four wheels via Volvo's Four-C (continuously controlled chassis concept) adaptive suspension, with three chassis settings available depending on conditions and mood. A Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DTSC) system is standard on the R model for braking slipping wheels and reducing power if necessary.

The R-specification engine is a 2.5-liter straight-five that makes happy use of turbocharging to produce a satisfying 300hp. Dual overhead cams featuring continuously variable timing on both the intake and exhaust valves keep the engine from wheezing before the turbo spools up. But Volvo didn't completely take leave of its brand identity in outfitting the S60 R, as a host of safety and a few green features round out the otherwise brawny package.

Our test car was equipped with the $2,400 Premium package: a glass moonroof and an HU-850 audio system with a six-CD in-dash changer. It also had the six-speed automatic with manual gear selection, a $1,250 option, but it lacked the $2,120 navigation system. Sticker price with options came to $43,735.

The provocative and comfortable 2006 Volvo S60 R evinces the dual nature of this performance car from the safety company. The gauges, unique to the R models, have familiar readable Volvo digits in silver on a soft-blue background and silver watch-dial bezels, a nice combination. An aluminum cover for the automatic shifter is another R-only touch, as are the power-adjusted full leather sport seats, which were black in our car, with blue stitching matching the exterior. The pleasantly thick steering wheel has audio and cruise controls at thumb's reach. Dual-zone climate controls are well laid out, with a pictogram and large buttons to direct airflow without any fuss.