about $4,600 higher than the previous top-spec T6 version. Yet that is partially offset by the fact that the $1,500 premium package is now standard. The Polestar upgrades add a reported $1,500 to the package. Bottom line: the exterior and interior detail changes and the modifications to the well-sorted chassis add just $1,600 to the S60 T6. Overall, I think the R-Design matches up well against its direct competitors and is a compelling value. (See the Vital Statistics for additional details.)

My test drive in the S60 R-Design had two parts. The first, from the stylish Bardessono, was on two-lane back roads from Yountville north of Napa to Thunderhill Raceway in Willows. Here, the overall composure of the upgraded chassis was evident. On CA-29 and CA-20, two of California's least-potholed byways, the