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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  S60R, 5 spd auto - 2004 Volvo S60
  By calberry - November 15 - 10:00 am

  Ive only owned this car for a month but so far its a hoot. It looks great, performs great and is a joy to drive. I have the 5 spd auto transmission and consquently there is noticeable turbo lag. Under accerleration it is hard to drive smoothly.

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  saved me and my fiancees life! - 2006 Volvo S60
  By alex - November 11 - 8:09 am

  me and my fiancee were driving when a tire blew out at 45 and shot us to the left we hit a dirt and rock embankment, went up and flipped over on the roof and continued down the road about 200ft. we both walked out of this car with nothing but sore bodys. this car saved our lifes. i will deffinetly be purchasing a nother one!

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  Rolling Artwork - 2003 Volvo S60
  By notpostal - November 6 - 2:00 am

  I just drove home in my new Platinum Green Metallic Volvo 2.4T with Geartronic 5 speed automatic. I chose this car over the Acura 3.5RL and the G35 Infiniti. While both the other cars were very nice, I felt the Volvo had the best combination of comfort, safety, performance and styling. Just getting into this car evokes a feeling that the other two couldnt equal. As for reliability, I will have to judge that later. However, I have two friends who have Volvos, one with over 200,000 miles and the other with over 100,000 and neither have had any major problems. Im looking forward to a long comfortable ride.

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  Its the real deal!!! - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Frankster - November 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is everything it was billed to be, quick & agile with a big car feel (when you want it) and a sports car feel when you want it...

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  Volvo S60 Rocks! - 2003 Volvo S60
  By backno37 - November 1 - 10:00 am

  This is the best in class...hands down!

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  S60R 2004 6sp - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Pete Fox - October 28 - 10:00 pm

  I purchased this vehicle used as a CPO from Volvo. This is an amazing vehicle. Awesome power, all wheel drive, the most comfortable seats, impressive sound system, eye catching and safe,hey its a Volvo right.

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  Amazing step up for Volvo - 2012 Volvo S60
  By volodoscope - October 12 - 2:46 pm

  I just love the direction Volvo is taking. For years the cars were little bit more expensive than competition and the designs were not general enough. The S60 design turns heads. I can always spot it on the highway. Volvo has really stepped out their comfort zone with s60. I love how fresh and futuristic S60 looks but it still feels safe, comfortable and durable. The most amazing thing is how smooth the ride is. I can barely hear the engine. Every little interior details makes sense, there are no random buttons that complicate the interaction. It was always my dream to have a Volvo and I am so happy its S60. And Im 26. Good job Volvo!

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  Great car with just a couple of concerns - 2004 Volvo S60
  By NYT-GB - October 4 - 10:00 am

  The S60AWD is a rewarding and enjoyable car. The Australian spec AWD is well equipped. However, the standard 45 series tyres make the ride rougher than a billy cart ! 50 series tyres are better but, the ride is still not as good as the X-Type Jaguar. Nonetheless, the more I drive the S60AWD the more fun I have. Performance and handling are exceptional providing safety and excitement. Build quality is first rate and fuel consumption better than expected - 26 mpg (imperial) around town and over 31 touring. Beware of flare in the 2nd-3rd gear change. Dealers can reduce the flare but Volvo really need to develop a permanent fix. Well worth a test drive.

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  My S60R - 2004 Volvo S60
  By LA S60R - October 4 - 10:00 am

  Great stealth performer. Picked the S60R over the 04 Acura TL for the 300 HP and 4 wheel drive. Had to bargain hard with the dealers for the car and a little difficult to find. Love the 6 spd. manual. Looked at the GPS, but not worth the price for the functionality I saw.

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  A Blast To Drive - 2013 Volvo S60
  By jeffm5 - September 23 - 7:30 pm

  My S60 T5 is the FWD model. Ive had it for about 6 wks. and have 2,000 mis. on it. Its loaded with NAV and safety options. Front seat comfort is outstanding. All of the controls are on the steering wheel or within easy reach. Handling is outstanding,, power and acceleration are very good. The car has a solid feel. No rattles. Good visibility. The ride is a little choppy on rough roads, very good otherwise. Im getting 30+ on the highway at about 65 MPH and around 24 in mixed driving with regular gas.