2015 Volvo S60

The 2015 Volvo S60 T6 is down two cylinders from last year's model, but up in both power and efficiency, thanks to its innovative twin-charged engine. Though displacing only two liters, this new four-cylinder, part of Volvo's Drive-E family of motors, manages to put out 302 horsepower at a relatively low 5,700 RPM, thanks to having both a turbo and a belt-driven supercharger.

The benefits of the new engine include scalability, fuel-efficiency and emissions reduction. Volvo says the Drive-E motor in the 2015 S60 T6 produces 30 percent fewer harmful emissions than last year's 6-cylinder. EPA ratings are also up, to a laudable 24 mpg city/35 highway. That's diesel territory, and especially impressive in a 3,500-pound sedan making over 300 horsepower.

The smaller engine actually adds some sportiness to the staid S60 driving experience. Power comes on early and continues in a smooth, nearly unremitting surge till just shy of redline. Thanks to the supercharger working at low revs, there's little noticeable lag. It's a cliche to say that small, forced-induction motors try to "feel" like big V8s, but if a driver of the 2015 S60 T6 weren't told what's under this Volvo's hood, only the sound would give away the unique nature of its powertrain. At full throttle, a faint whine accompanies the initial spool of the supercharger, which is replaced by the swish of the turbo as the transmission upshifts.

Our silver-metallic test car came very well equipped, with just about every bell and whistle you'd expect on a $47,000 luxury sedan. The optional "platinum" package added a navigation system with real-time traffic, Volvo premium sound, Homelink, and a rear park assist camera. The 2015 S60 also lives up to Volvo's reputation for safety, winning the Insurance Institute's Top Safety Pick + award.