Next Volvo S60 To Get Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain, Possiblity of Autonomous Tech

With the XC90 enjoying success and the S90 making its way onto the production line, what's next for Volvo? Motor Trend says that will be the S60.

In styling, the S60 will borrow a fair amount from the S90 including the LED 'Thor's Hammer' and the Final Cut” side-window shape. A long-wheelbase version of the S60 will be coming as well. Unlike the current S60 long-wheelbase which is sold in low-volumes, the next one will be sold in the same volume as the short-wheelbase model.

Inside, a 9.3-inch screen with Volvo's Sensus infotainment system will be available on higher trims. Powertrains will include a turbocharged 2.0L with 250 horsepower and a plug-in hybrid producing 300-plus horsepower.

One item still up for discussion on the next S60 is whether or not it will feature autonomous technology. The S90 will be the big test as it will offer a suite of standard semi-autonomous tech known as Pilot Assist. This suite allows the S90 to speed up, slow down, and steer under certain conditions (up to speeds of 80 MPH).

“We know [from] our research that our customer is very open for the technology,” said Volvo's U.S. president, Lex Kerssemakers.

If the system gets approval from customers, the system will trickle down to other models.

Motor Trend says the S60 could be arriving as early as 2017 or 2018.

Source: Motor Trend