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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  First car - 2002 Volvo S60
  By mostar94 - January 18 - 4:00 pm

  This was my first car, and sadly had to be ruined by a rear ender :( Overall great car, great safety features, good performance. The only downside I can see is being somewhat pricey when I first bought it (2007), as well as a boring and somewhat small interior. Overall great car, you will be missed bud!

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  Bad Trani - 2002 Volvo S60
  By horaciog - December 19 - 4:43 am

  The car has been ok for the first 75k miles however, thing started to go wrong. This car will not last past 90K miles without having major work done on trani or front suspension.

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  Enjoyable, but quality concerns - 2004 Volvo S60
  By porterj - December 19 - 2:00 am

  The dealer experience was only average at best, however I felt the S60 offered the best value. I also strongly preferred the European feel of this car to its Japanese made competition. Car is very well laid out, has a fantastic all wheel drive system.

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  Dont think Id buy another one. - 2002 Volvo S60
  By ratcher - December 13 - 10:00 am

  This car is fine for someone who rarely transports more than one passenger unless the backseat is for kids. It drives well on all kinds of roads. The interior layout is okay; the stereo system is confusing and a pain to use. They needed to add a changer for the component as well as station/track on the steering wheel. The airconditioning system is also confusing. Blind spots make backing out an adventure, though the flip down rear head rests are helpful. The battery is nearly inaccessible in the trunk (you must hold the trunk floor up with your head to access it), though a jump point is located underneath the hood. Pricey for the quality of the car.

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  Bad Bad Tires! - 2001 Volvo S60
  By confussed veteran - December 5 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 240 dl,850,940,andloved them all!I thought the s60 would be a step up!I love the bodystyle,heated seats,& gadgets.But there is a HUGE problem with the car,it haslow profile tires!5 blow out/flats in 1.5years!I beleive this is directly related to the wheel base size and the tire size.In my total driving experience with a volvo I have never had a flat or blow out! I fear this is a serious design flaw and would warn anyone about purchasing the car with the low profile tires on it! They are very expensive and replacing the tires is making me have a bad taste in my mouth with a company I have loved for so long.

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  I think I like it. - 2003 Volvo S60
  By CeeCee22 - November 5 - 2:00 am

  I tried to install an alarm system and the anti-theft system already present seems to clash with the new alarm system. Im still dealing with getting that worked out. Also, I live 150 miles from closest dealership and Ive been told that since Im still under factory warranty I will have to return to the dealership should any issues arise. I was told something TOTALLY different at the time of sale. So I feel a little bit misled. As for the car itself. It drives ok. I love the way it looks and have wanted a Volvo for years. A little disappointed with the ride and handling. I thought it would be slightly better.

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  fun but slow - 2001 Volvo S60
  By william newman - August 27 - 7:56 am

  As an accident reconstructionist, safety is #1. Volvo has always been the leader and thats why I drive one. Volvos build quality is always 1 step up from most. Our 60 was used but certified with an extended warranty. The standard motor is adequate but not much acceleration. But it makes up for it in fuel economy 30mpg. The ride is a bit stiff. Would not recommend for long trips. Volvo replaced the transmission at 48k but it only cost of 50.00. I wouldnt buy any vehicle without an extended warranty. Volvo for at least part of my life.....

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  Solid Car - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Nikki - July 25 - 11:33 pm

  I am on my third volvo and they have maintained their high level of quality. I continue to be impressed with the comfort and useability of the interior. The performance is lacking the oomph that many newer cars have. Great highway gas mileage (I get around 36 MPG highway). The backseat is lacking leg room, but is comfortable with two adults, three is a squeeze. I recommend Volvo to those looking for a comfortable, reliable car.

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  2006 S60 T5 - 2006 Volvo S60
  By Case B. - July 10 - 9:40 pm

  Ive been driving this fine machine for a month now and think I have found the perfect car. Responsive, stylish, sporty and loaded up. The gas mileage really surprised me. I was told to expect about 24 mpg on average but have been at 27-28.

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  S60R 6spd - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Turboguru - May 24 - 9:20 am

  I bought this car in December of 08, only 4 months later and the car has been in the shop more than Ive had it. Countless little problems, and several Major problems, costing over $3000. Im afraid to drive the car cause I never know when its gonna break next. The turning radius stinks, and it makes random noises. But its leather is top notch, sound system is great when it works, it looks amazing, accelerates great.