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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  Solid Ride. - 2009 Volvo S60
  By Choc - October 12 - 1:30 pm

  This is my second car from Sweden. I love the exterior styling, its beautiful but not flashy. The car drives very good, you have the press the gas paddle a little more than other cars but I guess they made it that way for safety. Volvo did a good job on the interior fit and finish. Although the dash is a little last century on the look, but all the bottoms are well laid out and easy to use. Good mileage per gallon thanks to the turbo.

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  Pre-owned S60 with 31,000 miles - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Lincoln224 - October 12 - 12:40 am

  I bought this car in Honolulu, HI with 31,000 miles. I love the Lunar gold paint and the tinted windows. The AWD seems heavy and solid throughout the suspension, the acceleration is OK, the turbo seems to suddenly kick in and push me back into my seat.

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  A little troublesome but a great value used. - 2007 Volvo S60
  By veiles71@gmail.com - October 11 - 10:33 pm

  Purchased in 2016 with 58,000 miles for only $5,000. Cosmetically in very good condition. Ride on the highway is excellent and gas mileage at around 30 MPG is acceptable. However, in town, the car is very cumbersome with a heavy feel and a terrible turn radius making it difficult to park in tight spots. In the year that I have owned it, 2 rear light bulbs and one of the headlight bulbs have gone out. The headlight bulb cost $150 at the dealer and would have cost me then again as much if I had not installed it myself. The coolant level light has gone on 4 times so Im losing coolant. Since I only drive such that the level is down every 2 months, I have not looked into getting it repaired. The check engine light came on and the code indicated a failed fuel system emissions pump failing. When I checked with the dealership, they told me they would have to diagnose it again at a cost of $130. When I explained to them that after checking on the internet I found that this was a common problem and was due to issues with the software and that there should be an extended warranty covering the software update. Was told my car was out of warranty by 2 months even though the mileage was only half the limit. Went back on the internet and discovered that Volvo offers a free software update that covers all issues. Called the local dealer and after convincing them that I do not have to have any "service" done to qualify for the software upgrade, finally had it done. No issues with the check engine light since. Overall, I see why the resale value is so low. Having said that, the S60 is a lot of car for price and Id buy a used one again. Probably not a new one, though.

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  Lives up to safety reputation. - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Kristi - October 9 - 8:56 am

  I loved this car from the moment I bought it. It drives smooth, fast and is gorgeous. I also recently experienced first hand how safe this car is. My husband and I walked away from a fairly serious accident, with only a bruise apiece. The front end was destroyed and still the doors opened just as easy as the first day I touched it. Unfortunately this car was totaled, but Ill be visiting my dealer very soon for a new one. Ill never buy anything else again.

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  Awesome car - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Brad - October 2 - 4:40 am

  Just picked up a new S60 2.5T in June, and it is one of the best sport-lux sedans out there. We were able to get every option (minus the nav) for a much better price than the BMWs & Audis we tested. And it is just as satisfying of a driving experience as the BMW (which is awesome to drive as well). The Volvo dealer had amazing levels of service, and the car definitely looks the best out of all the models we tested (BMW 3 and 5, Audi 4 & 6). The interior is a bit small (we tested the S80 too- much bigger), but it really works. This car is a blast to drive, and is great for turning heads in the driveway and on the road. Great car, go get one!

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  Nice car - 2013 Volvo S60
  By mtasquared - September 25 - 9:47 am

  Just bought this car one week ago, in Platinum trim. Safety features are remarkable. Power is smooth and makes driving fun. Rear headroom is a little low, one of the few minuses. I wanted to get away from all the little compromises of econoboxes with this purchase. Mission accomplished.

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  So Happy - 2006 Volvo S60
  By j - September 25 - 4:53 am

  Bought this vehicle to fit this criteria, fuel efficient/fun to drive comfortable, stylish and moderately priced. I enjoy driving it, even if it is not super sporty, it is very comfortable, and gets good gas mileage. I got 31 hwy averaging about 70-75 on my latest 3000 road trip, around town I get about 25. I bought a 06, Special edition with all the bells and whistles to include nav, bi- zenon, ect., and paid 34. Beemer would have been 45, no contest if you ask me, and as far as the bmw, this handled ALMOST as good on my twisty road into work, and ALMOST as fast, but I like the interior better. If you need to pay for a name/image get the bmw, if you are past that get this.

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  Daddy needs some speed - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Santosrjr - September 20 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a performance sedan that can give me the thrill of high performance sport car, the safety of a family sedan and the advantage to drive it all seasons. I test drove the Audi A4 3.0 Quattro, Jaguar X & S Type, Infiniti G35x, Lexus IS300 and BMW 330XI. I didn’t have the opportunity to test drive the S60R however; I read all reviews on this vehicle and decided to take the chance on it. I brought the vehicle thru military sales and believe me; waiting for it was worth it. Excellent AWD handling, adjustable suspension, 6 speed, 300HP, comfortable seats, safety and good dry and wet road performance.

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  My S60r - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Rich Picone - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, very responsive engine and handling.

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  fun - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Stu - September 20 - 1:06 am

  The last two years of ownership were a joy. Great power, excellent design and workmenship similar to Japanese products.