Electronically controlled AWD from Volvo

This on-demand system is new to Volvo, providing quick response and a subtlety in its activation not necessarily found in earlier all-wheel-drive systems that work with a viscous clutch without an electronic control module.

This all-wheel-drive update for 2002 is a good fit for the S60, a compact, Swedish-styled sedan in its second year on the U.S. market and whose list of standard safety items already is lengthy.

Even the base S60, with non-turbo engine and front-wheel drive, comes with dual-stage frontal airbags, side airbags, airbag curtains for head protection for both front- and rear-seat riders, antilock brakes and front seats with whiplash protection.

Starting manufacturer's suggested retail price, including destination charge, is $27,750, while the all-wheel-drive S60, with turbocharged, five-cylinder engine, starts at $34,000.

Competitors include the 2002 Jaguar X-Type with standard all-wheel drive and 2002 Audi A4, which is available with Quattro all-wheel drive. The X-Type has a starting MSRP, including destination charge, of $30,595. The A4 Quattro starts at $27,295.

The test S60 2.4T AWD had a solid feel about it, even when sitting still. Doors closed solidly and the broad-shouldered sheet metal on each side of the car added a sense of strength and security.

This four-door car rode stably, too, with a body that's mostly rigid and a suspension that gives the driver and passengers quite a bit of feedback about road surfaces. The S60 is not harsh about it; but riders do feel vibrations.

Compactly sized, the S60 managed sudden lane changes without fuss and was nicely mannered on twisty mountain roads