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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  Volvo s-60 - 2003 Volvo S60
  By itnom yemrat - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Overall can run nicely, however the service after your 36,000 is very high- 400.00 from this dealer(beechmont Volvo in Cincinnati. to change out the plugs & filter & call it a tune up!

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  153,000 miles and still tight as a drum - 2001 Volvo S60
  By slcraft - August 7 - 1:33 pm

  I bought this car and have owned it for a year. It was bought used as a two owner of lease. For the year, miles, safety features and modern amenities/luxury items if offered it was the most car for the money I could afford that was also the safest. Mine is still super tight and rattle free. I was able to get the TPS (throttle position sensor) which is about a 1000-1500 repair done free at my dealership because it was a recalled (ww.vexedvolvo.com) and DO NOT buy a car that hasnt had it replaced, they all fail. They warranty is 10 years and 200,000 miles for replacement. Other than that it has been trouble free. Make sure tranny fluid has been changed and timing belt done too!

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  engine cold start problem - 2013 Volvo S60
  By lee168 - July 31 - 10:34 am

  I just bought a 2013 volvo s60 t5 about two weeks ago. When I started the engine in a cold morning, the engine misfires and rumbles for about 5 to 10 seconds. It has been happening every morning when the temperature is below 50 degree, and it happens only the first time you start the engine. After the first time, everything is fine. I brought the car to a volvo dealer, they did all the testings and did not find anything wrong. they contacted volvo support and was suggested to upgrade ECM software 36004-2.3. but the problem still exists after the software upgrade.

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  Will absence make my heart grow fonder? - 2008 Volvo S60
  By 4th volvo - July 20 - 1:43 pm

  This is my fourth Volvo, so I guess I am brand loyal. The AWD is awesome. The car is heavier than my last T5 S60, although inside it is almost identical. The drive is powerful, and the acceleration with the geartronic transmission makes the car very fun to drive. The leather, stereo, etc., is just enough luxury for me. Sad to say I havent had it 2 full months and it will be in the shop already because the temperature gauge does not work and the fan will not stop. Car currently sounds like a jet plane after starting it.

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  "R" stands for rocket - 2005 Volvo S60
  By JFG - July 17 - 4:03 am

  A sports car enthusiest since childhood i chose to buy something practical after 8 years of F150 Ford 4x4 ownership. I got tired of the $100 + a week gas habit. The "R" was my choice above any other consideration. A more than worthy competitor against its rivals this car is a the best bang for the buck. AWD combined with superb interior design(except the rear leg rm) and power it is a purely exhilerating car to drive. In its most sporty and agressive mode (advanced) its hard for the gas pedal to find the floor before one finds himself at 100 mph. Handeling is responsive with a very firm ride. In comfort mode it is like a luxury car with balls. Great sound system, great looks, as well!

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  volvo girl for life - 2004 Volvo S60
  By volvo gal - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I owned a S40 for two years and wanted more power, the s60 was it! the Volvo moto is correct. Volvo for Life. Once you have driven a volvo you will find it hard to ever go back to a honda! The s60 offers power when needed and comfort the whole way. Highly recommeded, body style is big and bad! if the HP of 204 w/ turbo is not enough plan on the ECU chip being released later this year, boosting to 304 HP!

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  The stealth car... Rather the car no one knows about. - 2006 Volvo S60
  By IntParty - June 28 - 7:10 am

  was stunned when I test drove it and several moments told Gary the Carmax sales man." I like this I like it a lot, I think Im going to take this home with me tonight." So I took it home. I have no problems with this vehicle other then the leg room in the back for passengers. But since I rarely ever drive anyone else its no big problem.

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  First and last Volvo - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Got a lemon - June 23 - 2:00 am

  first child was on the way went for the safety factor-solid feel on the road- this replaced a BMW 325-drove 12 years with 240,000 miles-Volvo has had more major issues in first 32K miles than the BMW ever did-first winter car would not start below 30 degrees (it gets cold in Sweden,right?)-new ignition system, transmission slipping-like driving a manual and pushed in the clutch while stepping on the gas-new transmission-door open warning light kept coming on-latch sensor bad-Low Coolant warning-bad radiator-this car will be with us until the warranty expires.

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  Very good in most but not areas - 2002 Volvo S60
  By gls747@aol.com - May 29 - 10:00 am

  The S60 AWD is absolutely great in some areas. Interior is the most comfortable front cabin space I have ever been in. The dash, sound system, general feel is outstanding. The engine is very fast, smooth and quiet. It provides a very safe feeling in snow and hard rain. Relilabilty not an issue so far. The handling is bit of a disappointment. This car makes pretensions of being a sports sedan, but is very loose and goosey over rough roads, wind, etc. Loud thumps from median stips reverberate. That said, it still handles well on lane changes or around corners. A set of high performance tires has stiffened the ride considerably.

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  Great Car - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Pittsburgh Sean - April 30 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I leased the S60 2.4T. This car isnt perfect, but we love it none the less. None of the quirks we have found in it would cause us not to get the car again. I would have probably preferred a 3 series, but ruled it out because of rear-wheel drive and that arrogant stereo-type of BMW drivers. There are some things that I would have expected to be a little better in a car of this price (stickered at $36,000). The engine is kind of noisey. In my opinion, it should be whisper quiet. Also, when the AC compressor kicks on, you know it. I wish the car had more "nooks and crannies" to put stuff in. Storage space in the cabin is at a premium.