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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  Best Car I have owned yet - 2013 Volvo S60
  By hashmd - August 3 - 3:54 am

  My previous car was a top of the line 2006 Chrysler Town and Country. With the kids finally grown, I wanted a nice sedan to replace it after my son wrecked it. Of course, after a wreck, you want something safe. This car was the perfect balance of luxury, ride, performance, and gas mileage, all on REGULAR gas! Other luxury performance cars are strictly Premium grade gas. And this car passed the newest type of crash test at the IIHS which Mercedes, Audi, BMW didnt pass at all. Acura barely passed. Do other cars get better performance specs? Sure, but they cost noticably more. BMW gets better mileage, but again at higher purchase price and premium gas.

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  Funnest car Ive owned yet! - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Justin - July 31 - 10:46 pm

  I am a 24 year old college grad that needed a car that had curb appeal, but performance! I owned a 2003 S60 2.5t AWD but had found this car being traded in by the last owner when I was changing the oil! Its my best purchase yet to date. I have the areo ground effects package with 18 inch rims. I did a few performance upgrades and tunes, so its definitely not stock. Im pushing 438 at all wheels however I have 487 torque! Runs 11 seconds all day long. Great sleeper!

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  Boxy but Good...Think again! - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Scott_740 - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Being a newcomer to Volvo, I was guilty of stereotyping the brand based on its prior conservative looks. Once inside the cabin, I was impressed with the build quality and comfort of the front seats. The interior layout is ergonomically friendly and the choice of materials and surfaces are attractive and sporty (the wood is a great touch!). All of that on top of eye-catching exterior styling and enough zip to surprise many BMW and Mercedes owners at stop lights.

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  Stay Away from the S60 - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Jeff - July 27 - 1:16 am

  I loved this car for the first 3 years, but it has turned into a nightmare during the last year. I have poured more than $3,000 into repairs in just 10,000 miles past the 4 year/50,000 mile waranty. The throttle modulator went out at 50,750 miles. No help from Volvo and $500 to repair. Then a piston went out in the transmission at 54,000 again no help from Volvo, paid $2,000. Then at 56,000 the passenger door lock panel went out to the tune of another $400. Just recently I was getting gas and the fuel door fell off. $125 later I was back on the road to dump this dog. The biggest problem is that these are common problems with the S60s and Volvo (Ford) is ignoring them and the owners.

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  By a Acura or Infinity - 2002 Volvo S60
  By consumer8796 - July 20 - 10:00 am

  First of all the customer and dealership service for the vehicle is the worst I have ever had. Horrible. Vehicle stalled and left my wife and I stranded. I was able to start it again. Dealer advised loaner cars were a curtisy but not manditory. Also advised they would not provide a ride home for me if more then 15 miles. Honda here I come! Dealer advised car was fine!

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  I Love My Volvo - 2005 Volvo S60
  By ronde1962 - July 17 - 9:43 am

  I had a 1997 Lexus ES300 and it was a great car. After the Lexus, I purchased an Infiniti G35 Coupe, which was fun to drive, but very uncomfortable, and a terrible car to do the commute to work everyday. I wanted to go back to a sedan, but also wanted something a little sporty. I feel as though the new Lexus ES 330 looks like a tub. I also checked out sedans from Mercedes-Benz and BMW, but they were way too expensive. Then I looked at the Acura TL which was nice, but it had cheesy fake wood and didnt have an upscale feel to it. Finally I tried the Volvo S60. As soon as I drove it I knew I was going to buy it. It is the perfect combination of sport and luxury! Its seats are so comfortable. It has a great sound system, AWD, and a beautiful leather and walnut interior. Do yourself a favor and check this car out!

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  Absolutely Brilliant - 2012 Volvo S60
  By dr_q - July 14 - 9:56 am

  Volvo has really done well with the new S60. Its just a wonderful car, balancing everything from performance to safety and everything in-between. I have the T5 version and it is quiet, very responsive, and gets good gas mileage on regular gas (mine got 32MPG highway on a recent trip). Driving it is a dream. On the outside its a great looking car, but not overstated, the interior is comfortable and elegant. Materials and fit and finish are excellent. When you look at when you get for the price, and then add in the 5yr/50000 mile warranty, which includes wear and tear items and regularly scheduled maintenance, its just fantastic.

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  bought 2005 2.5T in November 2004 - 2005 Volvo S60
  By 05 S60 2.5T - July 13 - 7:40 am

  This is mostly my wifes car and we both like it a lot. Seats are the best and interior features are great and easy to use. Gas mileage around 24- 25 around town and 28-30 on long highway trips and it uses regular gas which at $3+/gl is a huge plus. It is more affordable than comparable Euro Sedans and has been a joy to own so far. I opted for the FWD model because the sport seats in the AWD we saw were not as comfortable and I think the seating comfort makes this car special.

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  Volvo Most Underrated........... - 2002 Volvo S60
  By kzoomn - July 6 - 11:20 pm

  A very good to excellent car with outstanding seating comfort. Has everything the luxury cars have except the high price. Above average gas mileage with satisfactory power. The best thing the S60 has going for it is its styling. You can alway find it in a parking lot as it doesnt resemble most of the other makes copycat cookie- cutter styling. Plan to keep it for at least 10 years as it will still look up-to-date............

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  Best of Both Worlds - 2004 Volvo S60
  By righteoustraveler - July 4 - 6:03 am

  I have had my S60R for 4 months and cannot recommend it more enthusiastically! Aesthetically the body and interior project the perfect balance of elegance, sex appeal, and virility without the pretentious vibe of the BMW & Mercedes crowd. In my opinion the R gives you the most versatility and value on the market. First of all its a limited edition vehicle(only about 4000 or so in US) which can only bolster resale value. Second, the combination of safety, performance, and price(got mine for 35,600) is second to none. Third, the versatility is addictive. This is the only vehicle on the market with the ability to choose from three different suspensions, thats like owning 3 different cars!