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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  2003 S60 AWD - 2003 Volvo S60
  By ed - April 9 - 7:56 am

  Bought mine used. Put 60k on it in not quite 4 years. Nothing major has ever gone wrong with this car. I love the car. The interior is downright swank. Heated seats are the bomb, Acceleration is surprisingly powerful, mileage is average or a hair less than I would have expected (26 mpg). Yes, its noisy. If that bugs you, itll be too much for you. If not, the car is awesome. And if you have kids, youll feel very responsible while still having a sporty, fun, and good looking car.

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  2nd Volvo - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Huron92 - March 30 - 5:03 pm

  This is my second Volvo (1st was an 01 XC 70), that Ive only had for 3 weeks but so far its a great car. Turbo lag is almost non-existent. From the 1st tank of gas Ive averaged 20 MPG in the city and the engine isnt broken in yet. Homelink should be standard and the turning radius needs to be better. I did get the sport package which translates to a very firm ride.

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  S60R - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Jim_s60r - March 27 - 10:00 am

  Hrd to believe it is a Volvo. A great sleeper car.

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  A feminine critique!! - 2004 Volvo S60
  By lkscott - March 27 - 10:00 am

  Wow! What a fun car. Love the acceleration. Have trouble with back- firing when shifting around 3500 RPMs told by Volvo that this is normal variant of the vehicle with standard trans---with 300 HP why would you have an automatic!! The Black sapphire looks sharp. Was worried about the blue interior--but it is eye catching with the blue weave. Love It!!

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  2004 Volvo S60 R - 2004 Volvo S60
  By cpbarton - March 27 - 10:00 am

  The S60 R is an owners delight. Performance is the most important aspect, 295 lb/ft of torque throw you back in your seat. The three chassis settings add versatility that few other cars in this price class can match (Advanced is great for right-lane interstate passing). 120 mph is smooth & quiet. The brakes are perfectly smooth & effective, not to mention good looking. The metalic blue interior gauges look great, especially at night. And with all of the sportiness, you still get a luxurious, safe, practical, understated (adult) car.

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  bold & strong - 2004 Volvo S60
  By raizin - March 15 - 2:00 am

  car feels strong, very quuiet --low road noise, the backside of the front seats is cut in to allow slightly more leg room in the back, car can be loaded with safety features. I enjoy the "W" (wet drive) function, STC (stability control). Just wish car was standard with all wheel drive.

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  2.4T -Nice blend of Performance & Luxury - 2002 Volvo S60
  By rrgennaw - March 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven the S60 2.4T for almost 6 months and I still love it. The blend of performance and luxury is just right for me.

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  Volvo for life is true - 2004 Volvo S60
  By SMPM - March 5 - 7:23 pm

  My S60 was a fleet vehicle w/low miles. I averaged 36 mpg hwy driving the car back home cross-country. The car is safe, solid - its not nimble like my old A4 or current Jetta, but solid. If I hit anything with this car, I will either push it out of the way or run over it - thats the feeling this cars drive quality has - heavy, solid, secure. Ergonomics on this car are superb. The seating is heaven and safety-blessed with the WHPS system. I have the 2.4L engine, and while I dont drag race, I know I have reasonable passing power. I drive this car like a hybrid - slow off the start, no wasted fuel, moderate braking on stops, and I average around 26/27mpg in urban driving.

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  Truly a great automobile - 2004 Volvo S60
  By As Fan - March 4 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has the looks, the performance and is resaonably priced. When it is in the Turbo mode, this vehicle runs like a scalded ape. If ever there was a wolf in shepps clothing, this is it.

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  "Professional" reviewers are harsh - 2005 Volvo S60
  By jpetrelli - February 23 - 4:23 pm

  The S60 is a very solid vehicle, with a few drawacks. If you are not ready for a 5 series (or equivalent) and beyond the 3 series, there are few alternatives that compare with the S60. The ride is great, the styling is solid and Volvo design touches are like none other. On the negative side, the fuel economy in the city could be better (I get 14- 17 unless I seriously monitor my acceleration), the back seat has limited leg room and I dont know what they were thinking with the key placement. The highway mpg (Over 30 mpg if driven smoothly) and interior comfort make getting in this car for a road trip a real pleasure.