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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  spend the money get the t5 - 2002 Volvo S60
  By les pierce - September 20 - 10:00 am

  great car, but a little slow on the pick up get the t5

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  1000 Miles of Smiling - 2006 Volvo S60
  By MM - September 20 - 12:23 am

  A wonderful vehicle. The car has a smooth transmission with lots of power out of the gates. Very comfortable interior with a seat that even provides upper back support. A better bargain than a BMW or Audi; the interior displays/controls are more visible and reachable, and are as intuitive in an Acura - in my opinion. Good visibility all around. Really like the safety features - esp the whip lash protection system. (Though I would not recommend the wood steering wheel option - no grip on the wheel during a test drive.)

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  One of the best cars I have ever had - 2003 Volvo S60
  By L.A. Philip - September 10 - 2:30 pm

  Of all the cars I have ever owned this is one of my favorites. This is a solid built very comfortable car. I would suggest the power seat package. The interior can look kind of drab, I have the extra wood kit and it makes a 100% difference in the look of the dash and interior I typically only keep a car 3 to 4 years I have had this one going on 6 years and still enjoy driving it. The car is great in bad weather, you hit the “W” mode and the car grips the road in heavy rain. The rear fog light gets people to back off tailgating in the heavy fog. On the freeway for road trips I get about 30 MPG, in town I average about 19 MPG. The 60/40 split folding back seat is nice to have.

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  S60R is a great car - 2004 Volvo S60
  By rqc - September 8 - 10:00 am

  The S60R combines sport, luxury, and practicality in a way no competing vehicle does. It is fast, handles magnificently, the Brembo brakes are amazing and yet it has a big trunk and a 60/40 folding rear seat. The seats are the most comfortable Ive ever sat in. I have the Automatic, not the Manual transmission.

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  S60 AWD - 2002 Volvo S60
  By J L - September 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought my S60AWD 7 months ago with 10000 on it Ive put 8000 miles on it so far, and it has been perfect. I lowered it and it transformed the car into a handling fool. The ride is as good or better than before and it handles like a slot car. Comfortable, roomy in front. No complaints whatsoever. Could have a better (standard) stereo and speakers. I wish it had the optional Volvo radio as that is a wonderful piece J L

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  Cold Weather Survival Tool - 2001 Volvo S60
  By jpearsall - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Performace is all I need, handling is not quite a BMW, but this I will trade for front wheel drive. Why? The same reason I love the climate control, heated leaterh seats and great defrosters. Intuition told me if you want a cold weaterh car, buy one designed in Sweeden. My intuition did not fail me. If you live in a clod climate, you cannot go wrong with a Volvo. The only thing I dont like about driving it in Minnesota is I cant stand to see it dirty!

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  Worst car buying experience that I have ever had - 2015 Volvo S60
  By neilister - August 29 - 6:44 pm

  Purchased 2015 S60 T6 Platinum. Dealer misrepresented car by not telling me it was a 2015 vs. newer 2015.5 version! Post delivery had tire pressure monitoring system problem, other neighboring dealers did not want to assist with the issue until I got nasty. Contacted Volvo Cars North America and requested assistance only to be completely blown off by them. Paid 40K for a new car only to have horrible service/support. There is no accountability at Volvo when there is a problem with one of their vehicles. 21st century car supported by a less than 20th century network of people. Will never buy another Volvo as a consequence of this experience.

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  S60R Worthy opponet - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Barry N - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Having owned BMWs, Saabs, and driven the latest Audi A4s I must say that Volvo has come up with a worthy competitor in this lux sport sedan class. It offers decent handling with optional modes depending on your mood and has enough power to earn respect of the best. AWD is a great asset and overall the car offers great value for money to the enthusiast.

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  Absolutely Best Car Ever Owned - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Jamey1 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Anyone considering the BMW 3 series, a Mercedes C or E class or the Acura brand should do themselves a favor and test drive the Volvo S60 AWD. It truly is a safe and very comfortable car that will not disappoint. And, the famous Volvo seats are better than any car seat Ive experienced.

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  no reason to panic - 2007 Volvo S60
  By S60R - August 16 - 7:56 am

  Ive had my R for about 6 months and couldnt be happier. I was a little nervous after reading some of the edmunds reviews, but can honestly say I have been thrilled thusfar. I got mine with the sport package. I, like many was looking at the IS350 and the GS. This is a hoot to drive, not as throaty and braggadosia as the Infinit, and feels bigger inside (at least the front seat) than the lex.