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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Buckeye Bobs Black Beauty - 2001 Volvo S60
By BuckeyeBob - February 10 - 2:00 amI had owned a BMW525 for eight years. My wife had a 740 wagon and V70 R. So I thought I mightspend my money where it would come back to America (Ford owns Volvo)Although very peppy vs. the BMW, the turning radius isnt that tight. Im over 6 feet tall, so I never have even small children in the back seat and expect a comfortable long ride. Dealer service is Poor in Dayton, Ohio, so even though car in warrantee I pay mechanic to do service. Volvo on demand roadside assistance is average at best, both times were a dissapointing experience.I love to drive this car on a long highway drive. The upgraded sound system was worth the $s.
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Best - 2002 Volvo S60
By BIG WILL - February 6 - 5:46 amThis car is exceptional on every level. The fuel economy is great, the ride and feel is super, the seats are very comfortable, and the price is excellent in comparison to the other"high line vehicles" in the market.
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My first Volvo - 2008 Volvo S60
By Central Florida - February 2 - 7:20 amIve had my Volvo 10 months and love it! I traded in my SUV in order to save on gas. I have not had any problems and I get better gas mileage than I thought I would --- about 35 Hwy as long as I drive 69mph. Very very happy overall!
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very good - 2004 Volvo S60
By mobada - January 31 - 10:00 amI love the car over my 2000S40. Bigger, more responsive, roomier,luxurious. Car key is too big and keeps falling off key chain. Should go back to key and separate piece for alarm, etc. Bose sound system would be nice but sound system is great. Needs trunk release that opens trunk.
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A Pleasure To Drive - 2005 Volvo S60
By Ari - January 14 - 5:20 pmThis is a really attractive vehicle -- a real looker -- in my opinion. It is aerodynamic and ergonomic, and drives as nice as it looks. Doors close with a reassuring thunk, the steering is predictable yet responsive, there is power to spare, and the seats are more comfortable than any chair in my home.
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A Pleasure To Drive - 2005 Volvo S60
By Ari - January 14 - 1:10 pmThis is a really attractive vehicle -- a real looker -- in my opinion. It is aerodynamic and ergonomic, and drives as nice as it looks. Doors close with a reassuring thunk, the steering is predictable yet responsive, there is power to spare, and the seats are more comfortable than any chair in my home.
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Great - 2004 Volvo S60
By T Endi - January 13 - 10:00 amHigh performance and stealthy. This car fits the sweetspot for those who want the perfect mid-sized sports sedan and do not want to spend over $45K. Far more comfortable than the competition.
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Vroom, vroom... - 2004 Volvo S60
By vizwiz - January 13 - 10:00 amFantastic ride. Nice supple comfort when I am driving the in-laws around in "Comfort" mode. Great family driver also, with all the safety/comfort features (my 5 year old keeps egging me on to go faster and swerve around corners :-). When the wife and kid are not in the car, it gives me 300HP and plenty of oomph to embarass all sorts of other cars out there.
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IS IT WORTH IT - 2002 Volvo S60
By Michael Lopes - January 8 - 10:00 amI do have to say this car is very stylish and fun to drive. But, I have had many things go wrong with this car at only 55000 miles. The front wheel bearing needs replaced at a wopping $1200 and both rear and left front Link Rods need replaced at $400. As you can imagine I am not to happy with this as it is no longer under warrenty. According to Volvo Service, this does not happen often. When you spend this kind of money for a car this is one thing you do not expect. Therefore I do not give this car a thumbs up. I am just afraid this is a sign of what is to come as the miles continue to grow.
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One Sweet Ride! - 2005 Volvo S60
By Mike C. - January 8 - 6:23 amI did a lot of research before deciding on the Volvo S60. I now know, after just 3 weeks, that I definitely made the right choice! This is the most comfortable car Ive ever owned. The plush leather seats just suck you right in. The driver and passenger areas are very roomy and comfortable. The back seats have no leg room, but thats not an issue with me. Ive found the climate control system to be quite nice. My wife always likes it cooler than me, so the dual zone feature is perfect for us. The performance is awesome! Ive heard others complain of turbo lag, but I dont get it. The low pressure turbo responds very quickly, so I dont experience any lag at all. I love this car!
