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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  Buyer Beware - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Soon Ex-Volvo owner - April 25 - 10:00 am

  This car has the worst quality of any I have owned! In the two years I have owned this car it has been in the shop four times for warranty work and has completely broken down where Volvo had to tow it to a dealership. Prior to owning this car I WAS a loyal Volvo driver. If you buy this model, proceed with caution.

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  Volvo S60 Is Just Alright With Me - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Edan S. - April 23 - 11:07 am

  Im not quite sure what to say about the S60, I bought it to replace my 2000 Volvo V70, which I loved. I sort of bought this car because I was getting reading to take a winter road trip to Montana and wanted something with AWD. I would have preferred an XC-70, but couldnt find one for the right price or in the time I allotted myself. I ended up seeing my S60 for sale at the local BMW dealership for $6995 with 102,000 miles. It was a one-owner vehicle purchased from and always serviced on time at the local Volvo dealership in town. After taxes and fees I think I ended up spending more than $8K, which in retrospect was way too high. I did, however, end up getting new tires (Michelin all seasons) right away, the old ones were "ok," but not great, some sheep skin seat covers (some of the stitching split on the drivers side seat), and some OEM Volvo all-weather floor mats (all worthwhile investments). So the car, its much smoother than my old wagon, great acceleration despite the additional 600lbs of the Haldex AWD system, decent gas mileage and road handling. Like all Volvos, the seats are supremely comfortable--second-to-none! My cars trial by fire was a 900+ mile road trip to Montana in December amid regular blizzards and arctic temperatures. My gas mileage was pretty decent over 28mpg at over 80mph most of the time. As with most vehicle, it handles really poorly on ice, it does however, do great in the snow. Once those back wheels start to grip, the thing can go almost anywhere (within reason). I did find out at the dealership during my last service that my control arm bushings are bad, so that might account for some of the sketchiness on the ice and just the freeway in general. Much to my surprise yet again, the A/C and heating systems are some of the best Ive encountered! Some of the other reviews have mentioned the cramped nature of the backseats, that is true, its very tight with a full-size adult sitting back there. The trunk while spacious has a fairly narrow opening which makes it a difficult to put some things in. I have a wheeled cooler that I like to take to the beach which often has to sit on the backseat rather than in the trunk. It fits fine in my wifes 2007 Jetta, but that has a higher and wider trunk I guess. Overall, I dont have a lot of gripes with this car. I enjoy driving it and its a nice looking vehicle. One of my biggest concerns though is the creeps, groans, and clunks I was experiencing over the winter. Anytime I would go over uneven pavement or speed humps the car made some weird noises from the front end. Maybe its some back chassis bushings, maybe it is the control arms, or it could even be the struts? All I know is it makes me apprehensive when it happens. Its been great over the summer though, no issues like that whatsoever. I can foresee this car treating me well for the foreseeable future. Will it be as good as my old V-70? Only time will tell.

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  Not A Family Car - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Renaek - April 17 - 10:00 am

  This car is great for just 2 people. If you have children do not buy this car. I have a 7 month old daughter. When we put her car seat in the car I have to have the passanger seat almost all the way forward. This makes it hard for my husband to go with me in the car since his knees are hitting the dash. I am looking at getting rid of it and I have only had it for 3 months

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  Moving Out - 2005 Volvo S60
  By bruce ulrich - March 19 - 1:40 am

  Ive got the 6-speed manual R version which are extremely rare- found only two in the entire L.A. metropolitan area- 100 miles in all directions! Only complaint so far (Ive only driven it 1,000 miles) is that it has a tremendous thirst for gas and Im not racing in the quarter mile on a daily basis! Im told it improves as the engine gets more broken in-I certainly hope so. 16.5 miles per gal. avg.-

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  Great Car For The Money! - 2002 Volvo S60
  By dingo686 - February 22 - 8:43 pm

  I have put 30k miles on mine and these are my impressions so far at 80K miles. I used to be a Honda guy but when I couldnt find a used one at a descent price I drove this car and boy am I glad I did. These cars have all the reliability of the Japanese cars but better fit and finish and quality. Just open and shut the doors of this car and youll know what Im talking about. Only problem Ive had with this car is the fuel pump cracked but it is a recall item so I took it to the dealer and they replaced it no charge. I have replaced one daytime running lamp and the oil and thats it. To me you get the looks, feel, most of the peppiness and quality of a BMW 3 series but at half the price.

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  2001 Volvo 2dr Sdn - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Andrea Smith - February 22 - 5:46 pm

  Overall, a very good car! Purchased car for safety features as well as design and have been satisfied YTD. Took 3 years of ownership before realizing that there is a trunk release above rear license plate when doors are unlocked push up on rubber cover this will open the trunk without using the fob.I have to agree that the car does burn bulbs. Car only has 38000 miles and replaced over 6 bulbs. The dealership I go to is not so generous and charges $4.00 a bulb a bit pricy. Had some problems with plastic runners on roof pitting and discoloring the first year but they were replaced under warranty. Also, experienced some electrical problem that was also covered under warranty.

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  R doesnt stand for Reliability - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Greg - February 20 - 10:13 pm

  Ive had the S60R for about one year now; its a blast to drive, sporty and luxurious. The navigation works well, but does not have voice activation or a touch screen. So far Ive averaged at least one trip to the dealer per month for "nuisance" problems and technical bulletin fixes. The 6 speed will make even the most seasoned stick drivers feel like a 16 year old learning to drive a manual tranny, its never the same clutch twice. In spite of these shortcomings, Volvo has done a nice job entering into the M3 and S4 realm. The R can hang with either car and not embarrass itself. Just be prepared to fork over alot of cash at the pump.

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  ok - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Sasha 1 - January 26 - 2:00 am

  Nice car for normal driving. Not enough power in 5 cyl. Dealer service sucks in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn! Parts expansive so get extanded warranty.

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  Great commuter car - 2003 Volvo S60
  By agr_msu - January 14 - 2:20 am

  This is my wifes car, she absolutely loves it. She commutes about 70 miles a day each way and the car is comfortable, reliable, and looks good to her peers. We love the manual transmission and regularly get 32 mpg. Our only complaint is that the backseat is a tight fit for a baby/infant seat. It holds adults fine.

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  Sweet Ride - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Michael - January 3 - 7:06 pm

  I replaced a 96 maxima that I rode hard for 200k with this car. The Maxima was fast for only 190hp. I wanted something that was fast. I had been looking for an s-60. 1st gear aint much to talk about, throw it in second and with the right RPM, youve got a rocket. The high pressure turbo is different. I squeal the tires after it is in gear and the RPM goes up. The car is one of those classic designs that wont go out of style. (They modeled the new S80 after it.) I only wish I would have sprung for the later edition R60 with 300 HP. Maintenance aint horrible but there are weird squeaks & rattles all over the car. My car has all the options for an 01, trackball 5-speed.