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2012 Volvo S60 and XC60 R-Design to Get 25HP Power Boost

The Swedish automaker, Volvo, has decided to increase the engine output of their S60 and XC60 R-Design models in order to bring the cars closer to AMG, M-Sport and Audi RS performance capabilities.

For the 2012 versions, the models will feature a 25 hp power increase as well as a 29 lb-ft (40 Nm) of torque boost out of their inline six-cylinder T6 turbocharged engine. The power will increase from 300 hp to 325 hp and from 325 pound-feet (441 Nm) of torque to 354 pound-feet (480 Nm).

"The jump in performance will re-define these two R-Design models," said Doug Speck, president and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America.

"Along with styling and suspension features that set them apart from other versions, our two newest R-Design models will have a higher 'fun-to-drive' quotient. I see that as a positive thing, and so will car buyers," he added.

After creating one of the automaker’s most dynamic models ever, the chassis team focused on refining even further a couple of details.

"The challenge was to boost the dynamics without making the chassis feel raw,"
says Stefan Sallqvist, manager of vehicle dynamics.

A strut brace was fitted under the hood by the chassis team in order to tie together the suspension strut towers. The result was a stiffer body structure that helped improved steering response.

It’s a sad thing though that the upgraded engine is not available for the V60 R-Design sport wagon. For the Volvo S60 R-Design you’ll have to pay $42,275 (EUR29,130), while the XC60 R-Design cost $43,150(EUR29,730).
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