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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  9 mos retrospective - 2002 Volvo S60
  By mikepghpa - May 14 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive, no doubt. It handles curves very well at good speed and the braking capacity is outstanding. It is very comfortable with probably the best leather seats in this class. Trunk room is surprising since it is square without tapering to more narrow dimensions. Fuel capacity is remarkable since the tank holds 21 gallons. At 9 mos, reliability is excellent. Only problem Ive experienced is a back seat squeak.

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  Better than BMW or Mercedes - 2006 Volvo S60
  By dwightex - May 13 - 9:25 am

  Really great car. I had a 2004, drove about 78000 miles over the 4 year lease. No problems (other than I scrapped the front fascia against a parking lot curb) Also, dont drive this car in heavy snow. even with snow tires, computer couldnt deal with 6" of new snow. Handling and acceleration is very satisfying. Seat is comfortable. Nav is okay. Sport and Comfort settings are great, stereo is great. Little back seat room but we never used the back seat

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  Blast to drive...but... - 2013 Volvo S60
  By mark361 - May 6 - 3:05 pm

  A thrill to drive. Salesman said it can out-perform a police cruiser and I believe it.

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  Great daily driver for the enthusiast - 2004 Volvo S60
  By gpolitis - May 5 - 10:00 am

  Have really enjoyed the experience of owning this vehicle. Excellent power, no torque steer, AWD stability when pushed in corners, great sound system, etc. The overall "experience" has been excellent. Ive put a lot more miles on this car than I expected.

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  Like a Bat outta Hell - 2013 Volvo S60
  By azelscotto - May 4 - 11:59 am

  She flies. That torque curve is unreal. After a week with the R-Spec I can say that the tight suspension handles uneven pavement better than I had expected. The cabin is very quiet and IMO the sound system is equal to the Audi with the Bang and Olufsen, as I tested the Audi and the Volvo the same day.

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  Fantastic used bargain!! - 2007 Volvo S60
  By happy 1st time owner - May 1 - 12:16 pm

  Came across the S60 in Consumer Reports "best used cars"; they rate the 07 S60 reliability higher than Infiniti G35(!). Found well-equipped one w/low miles for great price. Very pleased so far: it has sport package & ride can get a bit choppy over lateral ridges at times, but for the most part is pretty good, similar to 3-Series etc., very nice on hwy. Expecting ride improvement when OEM junk Pirellis replaced. Great solid build quality, nice amenities, front seats *very* comfortable; rear are as well but a bit cramped for tall folks, look @ S80 if you need more room. Excellent radio & climate control. Engine could be smoother, but has good torque. Averaging 27 mpg on commute.

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  Mix of sporty character and luxury - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Mariusz - April 26 - 2:00 am

  My first Volvo, the best car Ive ever owned. Solidly-built, very comfy ride, more comfy than sporty though. Makes great safe family car, but still gives you feeling of driving coupe. Definitely go for TURBO version, basic 2.4 seemed a bit sluggish, 2,4T moves.

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  Volvo S60 T6 R-Design is a wolf in sheeps clothing - 2012 Volvo S60
  By saholz - April 17 - 6:19 am

  The 2012 R-Design is the sport version of the already outstanding S60 T6 all wheel drive sedan. The price jumps over $4,000; but the car includes the $1500 Premium Package, a $1500 Polestar engine tune and turbo boost, a suspension upgrade, plus some exclusive interior and exterior trim enhancements. The car is a blast to drive. Power is strong and very linear from the 325 bhp turbocharged inline 6. The stiffer suspension is still fairly complaint over rough roads, but the tires are loud when hitting pavement breaks.

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  2005 S60R: Great "Sleeper" car - 2005 Volvo S60
  By ACowabunga - April 13 - 3:46 pm

  After owning a 2001 S60T5, I knew that the R would be a step up in performance. I wasnt disappointed in my purchase. The R has everything I enjoyed from my T5 plus more. I love the blue gauges and the ability to change the shock dampeners on the fly. I do not regret my purchase at all.

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  Best of 4 Volvos I have owned. - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Roger A. Breunig - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Good body style. Very strong acceleration and braking performance. Snow tires very helpful in our northern climate (WI). 4000+ miles on car so far. Am getting some minor brake squeel from front brakes.