Drove to melb cbd yesterday and had some time to spare coz the traffic was good. Dropped by Volvo Melbourne to check out the all-new S60 T5 currently on $55,990 driveaway.

Quick facts : 2.0 I4 turbo / 177kw / 320nm / 6 spd "Geartronic" / 0-100: 7.5s

The T5 is the base model of the S60 range but it has features that easily rival Lux models of Japanese cars. I am comparing this to the Accord Euro Lux (RRP $43000). S60 misses out on the HID headlights and sunroof. However, the S60 counters with a long list of high tech safety features including a very cool radar-assisted safety system (a forward-looking sensor is mounted at the top of the windscreen). The 2.4iVTEC is no match for the 177kw T5. Lets not talk about its ancient 5-spd auto gearbox vs the 6 spd on the Volvo.

I didn't take it for a test drive as I can only stay for 15mins, but on static examination of the car alone.. it was very very good. The doors close solidly and the amount of force needed to shut the door is consistent with every door. (on the accord euro, the front door closes more easily than the rear. How I feel anyway). Sitting inside, you can't help but to admire the beauty and the quality thats built into every dial and knob..

Yes I understand I am comparing a $56k car vs a $43k. But the $56k is already driveaway and Volvo is giving away 5-yr/100km free servicing. This could cost up to $6k minimum, so the S60 T5 is really $50k driveaway.

I won't buy an S60 based on how it looks on the outside, but its good to note the market is getting more competitive than ever. Honda better be bringing out a 6-spd auto gearbox and seriously consider forced induction if they want to compete..