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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More fun than I expected... - 2004 Volvo S60
By AMD - July 16 - 10:00 amAfter many weeks of test driving cars, I finally returned to my favorite Vovlo dealership to test drive a 2004 S60. As a former S40 owner, I was quite skeptical, since I had some mechanical issues with the car and the scheduled maintenance was expensive. I was trying to decide between the Volvo S60, the Audi A4, the new Acura TSX and a 2002 BMW 325i. I had tested the 2003 S60 and found it to be a little sluggish, but the 2004 was much peppier. I also like the small changes to the interior and, of course, the free scheduled maintenance. Its a fun, safe, solid car. Also, after wrangling with the dealership, I bought mine for just under invoice....
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Great car! - 2012 Volvo S60
By jtski33 - July 15 - 9:06 amI just bought this car yesterday and drove it 700 miles to my home. It drives great! A lot of power yet still fuel efficient. I averaged >30 mpg on the highway during my first trip. The handling is tight and responsive. The front seats are incredibly comfortable and supportive. The lumbar support is great. Even after sitting in the car for >10 hours I had no back pain or fatigue. I got a great deal on a 2 year old lease turn in. I was between buying a BMW 3 series and Volvo S60. The BMW wons hands down for performance. I bought the Volvo because I loved the styling, it drove very well and was packed full of features for 10K less than the comparable BMW. Great value.
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Discreet Fun - 2006 Volvo S60
By FastCar - July 13 - 6:33 pmI looked at BMW, Audi, and MB, and by far the best power/quality/features combination for the money was the S60R. The car performs at its best with quality 93 octane gasoline. By quality I mean from Shell, Exxon, Chevron, etc., not Texaco, Citgo, etc. Any low quality gas or under 93 octane and you will have a non turbo S60 2.5L. Also, it is important to have the foot on the entire accelerator pedal for best results. City driving and hard acceleration now and then, yields 21-22 mpg. Almost nobody knows what is under the hood, so it is fun to see other drivers trying to race you from light to light and being left behind every single time.
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Great Car - 2002 Volvo S60
By bkrueger - July 12 - 4:26 pmVolvo is a great automobile company. If you are considering an A4, C-Class, IS300, 3-Series, it is another great alternative. Good performance, turbo is a lot of fun on the highway. Gas mileage is usually aroung 25 city 30- 33 highway (Depends how you drive). Interior is small in the back but i dont care because im the driver and it is awesome in the front. Interior is also very nicely appointed. Sound system rocks. Good car all around i have an ECU upgrade so that makes the car even more fun to drive.
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fun to drive - 2005 Volvo S60
By Dave Carraghan - July 12 - 2:56 pmthe s60 is an extremely comfortable car to travel in...very responsive...handles and brakes well...it is designed with the driver in mind...
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Great Car - 2004 Volvo S60
By Max Monrovia - July 10 - 10:00 amCant beat it for the money, Unless you want to drive something ugly. Its fun to drive, fast, and quick. I find myself driving much faster than normal and cursing those who drive merely 10mph over the speedlimit, because the car makes it so easy to do. Looks good (specially for a Volvo). Plus it has all of the thoughtful conviences youd expect from a luxury car.
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steering/poor - 2002 Volvo S60
By R.J.D. - July 10 - 10:00 amWhen taking turns, they are poor because ,of front wheel drive.Very tuff in tight parking spots.Try it before you buy.GOOD LUCK.
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A "Volvo For Life" man is born - 2005 Volvo S60
By Dave Besancon - July 10 - 3:56 amI just want you, who are having a tough time making a decision on this car, to know the following. I aggravated on this vehicle for over a year and then finally sat in one. Within seconds I knew this was it. We have owned ours over a month and it has been the greatest car I have owned. Extremely comfortable, very quick, and the gadgets work great. This vehicle is very stable and comfortable. The AWD already saved us while driving in ice. It pulled us back out of a slide before we had a chance to react. The space from rear to front seat is a little shy but we dont use the back much. It is a very elegant looking car too. Dont be afraid to buy this car. Volve takes good care of you.
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Great Car! - 2011 Volvo S60
By Vanilla - July 8 - 10:00 amI have only had my car for a week now, but I love it. Its super fast and very comfortable. The stero and car functions are somewhat confusing, but I think I can work through that.
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Great bang for the buck - 2009 Volvo S60
By Chris - June 29 - 4:23 amIve looked at the S60s since they came out years ago...but always thought they were overpriced in the market they competed in. However, with the recent clearance reductions, maintenance and warranty incentives...I couldnt help myself...and couldnt be happier. Probably doesnt compete well with the BMWs, Lexus, and Infiniti in its original price range...but against the Accord and Camry with similar features, I think it stands head and shoulders above. To me, has a much more high-end feel ride. Gas mileage for me runs about 24 in combined driving, or regular unleaded.
