Overview & Reviews
The Volvo S60 is an established yet unconventional member of the entry-level luxury sedan segment. It competes in a class dominated by cars with normally aspirated six-cylinder engines and bucks the trend by offering a choice of two turbocharged engines, an inline-5 and an inline-6.
Styling is another area in which the Volvo S60 is unique, as this midsize sedan's body lines show off a modern and pleasing Scandinavian design aesthetic. Inside, the S60 strikes one as more functional than luxurious in its ambience, but it's hard to find fault with its carefully considered ergonomics and orthopedically designed seats.
There have been two generations of the S60. Those considering the first generation as a used car should find it easy to like, though in its later years it became increasingly outclassed in terms of performance, features and interior room. The newer S60 is fully competitive, however, thanks to a sportier, more engaging drive and an improved interior.
Current Volvo S60
The 2012 Volvo S60 is a midsize luxury sedan available in three trim levels -- T5, T6 and T6 R-Design. Each successive trim brings a more powerful engine and sportier suspension tuning and styling accents.
Standard feature highlights of the T5 include 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat, power-folding rear headrests, Bluetooth and a full-featured eight-speaker sound system. The T6 adds a more powerful engine, 18-inch wheels and leather upholstery. The T6 R-Design adds more power, a firmer suspension, special styling tweaks, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, a sunroof and sport seats. Optional highlights include keyless ignition/entry, a navigation system, a 12-speaker premium audio system, adaptive cruise control and a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system.
Power for the front-wheel-drive T5 is ably provided by a turbocharged inline-5 engine with 250 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive T6 comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 that produces 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the T6 R-Design again means all-wheel drive, along with a more powerful version of the same engine good for 325 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic is standard across the board.
In reviews, we've found the latest S60 to be a comfortable, sophisticated and well-behaved luxury sedan with plenty of power regardless of trim level. The option of an all-wheel-drive version is nice for those who live in inclement areas of the country. The S60's only major drawback is a slightly cramped backseat compared to roomier rivals.
Used Volvo S60 Models
After a one-year hiatus, the S60 returned, redesigned for 2011. Initially, this current-generation S60 was available only in T6 form. The following year brought the entry-level T5 and high performance-themed T6 R-Design trim levels.
The first-generation Volvo S60 was produced from 2001-'09, and was a replacement for the S70. Initially, it was offered in base 2.4, midlevel 2.4T or range-topping T5 trims. The S60 2.4 came with a 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine that produced 168 hp. The turbo 2.4T had 197 hp. The most powerful engine was the 247-hp 2.3-liter five-cylinder in the T5. An all-wheel-drive model called the 2.4T AWD joined the family in '02, and all models received enhancements to traction control and engine management systems, resulting in improved response.
In 2003, the AWD sedan switched to the 208-hp 2.5-liter engine, prompting Volvo to rename it the 2.5T AWD. In '04, the hot-rod 300-hp R was added to the mix, sporting a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, 18-inch wheels, performance tires and bi-xenon headlights. All S60 Rs were all-wheel drive, and buyers could choose between a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. Also that year, the front-drive S60 2.4T became the 2.5T, as it, too, picked up the 2.5-liter engine.
For '05, the Volvo S60 received an exterior and interior refreshing. The T5 got a bump in hp to 257 and a few other upgrades. In '06, Volvo dropped the base 2.4 model and upgraded the 2.5T AWD model with a new all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction. The following year, all '07 S60s received revised front fascia styling. For 2008, the high-performance R model was dropped, and no significant changes occurred for '09. There was no S60 for 2010.
In reviews, we found this S60 offered a ride biased more toward comfort than speed. Handling was adequate, but the limits were modest on 2.5T and T5 models. However, shoppers should take note of the many mechanical and equipment changes made through this generation's run, as newer models offered more performance and features. Judged on its own merits, the Volvo S60 should be satisfying to own, but savvy consumers should also check out the S60's many competitors as they may offer more refinement and, for enthusiasts, a more involving drive.
User Reviews:
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Great Car - 2004 Volvo S60
By Mike J. - July 12 - 10:00 amIve had the car for about 4 months now. Simply put, the ride is great and the car has to be one of the fastest on the road. I put 93 octane each time i fill up and boy do I feel the power. The leather seats are very comfortable and provide tremendous back support (especially for my aching back).The mileage tacks on very quick, a little too quick?! The headlamps are high intensity and look very nice at night. My only complaint has to be those damn squeaky brakes!! Also, the gas mileage isnt too great, but since I am alwyas racing the engine, I figure its mostly a result of my crazy driving habits. Everyone who I show off my car to is impressed, get this car!
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Fun Car!! - 2002 Volvo S60
By NotASoccerMomCar! - July 12 - 10:00 amI bought a Volvo S60 2.4T in Aug. 2002 with premium package, sport package, and touring package. This is a fun car to drive. I never thought I would buy a Volvo, but I really love this car. It has nice pick- up. The interior is very stylish. My only complaints are: with a 3 year old the back seat is small, the tires wear down quick (15,000) and are expensive, and I had a problem with an RPM sensor but Volvo fixed it in 2 days and provided a rental car. Overall, I would recommend this car to anyone who wants a fun sports car!
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Not the best, not the worst - 2006 Volvo S60
By Hit-s60r - July 4 - 12:13 pmI was sitting at a red light behind 2 cars when a 27 year old woman (on the cell phone, looking over her shoulder) slammed into the back of me going 45, again I was at a dead stop. The impact sent me into the car ahead and broke my seat (Volvo safety design, break-away front seats). The Honda Insight which hit me square on the back bumper was totaled, and unless you looked at the rear deck of the Honda, you wouldnt know what it was that hit me. The Volvo trunk, bumper was smashed back to the rear wheels and some damage was found in the bracing, not the frame. The car wasnt totaled since the damage was about 24K and the value was north of 32K. The main thing was I walked away!
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Alls good! - 2002 Volvo S60
By kzoomn - July 1 - 11:06 pmHaving previously owned a V6 Camry, this Volvo seems slightly under powered. But one gets use to the power curve very quickly. The Volvo seems to corner very well and I think the seats have something to do with the cornering feel. Gas mileage stays aroung 22mpg city and 28+ highway. There are many small features that once you become familiar with, help to make this model a pleasure to own & drive.......
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Lightening Vault! - 2006 Volvo S60
By visquci - June 30 - 11:06 amAfter a long research Volvo S60R was never in my radar. However, it is the most well balanced car. It is like a japanese katana blade, it has a fierce power in the torque, horse power and the AWD really really HUGS the road. S60R is not only a fast car but the safest on the road. Volvo has finally stepped up in its foundation in safe now they are moving into speed. i love it when you turn on the car the turbo sound really speaks to me like its telling me to drive me FAST! i top this car at 138 i would had gone faster but didnt bother too. Well done Volvo you really impress me.
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S60 2.4T I love it!! - 2001 Volvo S60
By Scott A - June 28 - 10:00 amI bought the car 2 months ago with 27K miles....absolutely love it...most comfortable seats of any car Ive driven. My only complaints are with some of the plastic dash material, radio control functions, and at times rough suspension over city streets. Still, I absolutely enjoy driving the car which is a huge step up from my 15 yr history of driving Hondas. Finally, the 2.4T provides plenty of power with minimal turbo lag....glad I didnt spend xtra for the T5.
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Suweeet - 2006 Volvo S60
By Jim - June 25 - 4:56 amI went from a 4Runner to this vehicle. Perhaps Im getting old. I seats are incredibly comfortable (essential for my long commute). I test drove an older S60 2.4 (non- turbo) and Im extremely glad that I went with the newer Turbo AWD.
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My driving live has a new mistress - 2012 Volvo S60
By patrick61 - June 22 - 9:39 amI own now my S60 D3..soon it makes me forget my previous BMW3 ! The S60 is a dream of a car. Everything a car-fan can dream. Much much much better than my very unenjoyable BMW3 320d (2008). I do not understand the fuzz about BMW and certainly not the addiction of the automobile reviewers with it. Now with my Volvo D3, I can again getting adddicted to driving after three years I told myself I was grown up and car driving was only for the necessary long distance movements and not for fun. I was so far that i though about giving up my car and travel only by public transport...such idiot ideas gave that BMW me. Now finally I experience that I am not old !
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Awesome - 2012 Volvo S60
By skippy1977 - June 20 - 12:17 amI only have 200 miles on it so far, but it is a tone of fun to drive. Great acceleration (I have the 5 cyl engine not the 6, but it is still very fast and has better mgp). It has a quite ride, and lots of gadgets even without the technology package or the DVD navigation system.
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excellentvolvo - 2001 Volvo S60
By gash - June 16 - 2:00 amextremely comfortable, reliable, and fun to drive. dont forget safety features!
