Volvo->ke188 is offering its American customers a cheaper entry level model for the S60 line-up. It's called the T5 and is priced at only $30,795, which is $450 less than the previous base model and $7,000 more affordable compared to the initial top version.

This new version will be powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 250HP and 266 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a six speed automatic transmission. It comes equipped with memory, power folding rear head restraints, front and rear sport seats, a leather steering wheel with metal inlays, dual-zone air conditioning, an infotainment and 8-speaker sound system, Bluetooth hands-free phone interface, T-Tec textile upholstery, and 17-inch alloys.

Hit the jump to read more about the Volvo S60 T5.

Exterior and Interior

The new T5 model is as sporty and dynamic as any other model in the line-up. It features the same coupe-like profile with the C-pillar of the all-new S60 stretching sensually all the way to the tail lamps.

The new S60 T5 will be offered with memory, power folding rear head restraints, front and rear sport seats, leather steering wheel with metal inlays, dual-zone air conditioning, an infotainment and 8-speaker sound system, Bluetooth hands-free phone interface, T-Tec textile upholstery, and 17-inch alloys.

The Engine

Under the hood, Volvo has opted for a turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 250HP and 266 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a six speed automatic Geartronic transmission, this engine will sprint the T5 from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds and will hit a top speed of 130 mph (electronically limited). The T5 will only be offered with a front-wheel-drive system.

The list of technologies for the T5 include corner traction control by torque vectoring, advanced stability control, and dynamic stability and traction control (DSTC).

Prices

The new 2012 Volvo S60 T5 is priced at $30,795, $450 less than the previous base model and $7,000 more affordable compared to the initial top version (priced from $37,700).

The Competition

Before deciding on buying the new T5 model, you should probably take a look at models like the Cadillac CTS, the Acura RL, and the Lexus IS. The CTS is powered by a direct injected 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 304 HP, while the RL gets a 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine that develops 300 HP and 271 lb-ft of torque.

The Lexus IS is offered with a choice of two engines: a 2.5 liter V6 with a total output of 204 hp at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm and a 3.5 liter V6 variant that delivers 306 hp at 6,400 RPM and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm.