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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  Double trouble - 2008 Volvo S60
  By 2xvolvoowner - January 6 - 9:30 am

  We own both the XC90 and S60and have been frustrated with both vehicles. Both have seen more than their fair share of the service department and the lack of concern from Volvo has been discouraging. In two years of the S60, we have had to replace the ignition switches twice. The emergency cable never really engaged properly so it had to be adjusted as well as the sunroof at a cost. A faulty ABS contact reeel and front axle shaft had to be replaced due to recalls. The headlight washer fell off and had to be replaced twice. As if we didnÂ’t feel nickeled and dimed already, we now have to replace the Fire Trap Housing not covered on the warranty. We are very disappointed.

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  Enjoying my new S60 - 2013 Volvo S60
  By keithv - December 31 - 8:37 pm

  Only about 400 miles on the car so far, so still breaking it in. The car is smooth and very comfortable, and Im enjoying the T5s engine, which has better and smoother pickup than the VW EOS I traded in. For the money, I dont think there is a car on the road with more comfortable seats than the Volvo. The infotainment system is pretty intuitive. There is a bit of wind noise in the cabin. So far getting 23 MPG on regular, which should improve a bit when broken in. The sales staff at Maroone/AutoNation Volvo in Delray Beach were easy to work with, and very accomodating when I had to factory order the car to get the ext/int combination I wanted. I also got a very fair deal & trade.

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  32,000 miles - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Bodie - December 22 - 6:46 am

  Over 2 years ownership now-premium and sport packages. Pros: very comfortable seats, doesnt look like everything else on the road, reliability, decent performance. cons: turning radius is terrible (my 2005 tacoma double cab is easier to park than the volvo) glove compartment rattles on bumps, road noise. Overall I cant complain, my wife likes her ride, and have had no mechanical issues yet. I enjoy the sport shift when I drive it. I still would have chosen the Acura TL if it were my choice. We also tested the BMW 325, infiniti G35, Mercedes 230 and Acura TL.

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  An Outstanding Experience - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Chicklett - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I am driving a premium pkg. option dark blue, black leather interior. It is a fabulous ride, my first volvo and I am hooked ! The car is extremely fun to drive with a lot of zip. The turbo engine option was a good choice for me. This is Not a family car unless you have babies. The back seat is very cramped especiaklly if there are two regular sized adults sitting in the front. The wagon would be a better option. The sound system is superb and I am very impressed with the resale values.

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  Great alternative! - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Jean - December 13 - 12:36 pm

  The Volvo S-60R is a great alternative to Audi S4/BMW M3; fully loaded it will run at least $10K less. While a tad slower in the straight away, the difference is not something even the above average driver would notice. On the highway, just a nudge of the gas pedal will take you right into jail time! The braking system is superb and the interior design is excellent (blue dials look great). Brand recognition in the US is still lagging, but you will surprise plenty of drivers that think its just a "safe car"! Gas mileage is good for 300 hp because Volvo engineers got it out of only 5 cylinders. Open the hood and take a look - the engine screams performance. All that and safety too.

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  Wow! - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Rrrreally Nice - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Just got my S60R. Wow! Silver with the blue interior is the way to go. The blue leather is not as loud as in the brochure. Acceleration and handling are excellent, and the seats are much more comfortable than the BMW 5 series.

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  Great Value - 2004 Volvo S60
  By GOIrish - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Exceptional value for the Money. Looked at M3, S4, G35, TL, C32AMG, A4, 330i, 330xi and you just cant beat or match the performance and AWD received from the Volovo at its price level. Not as fast as M,S or AMG versions but faster then all the rest. Insurance costs for this car also make it more attractive then the burners.

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  3 Tome Winner - 2004 Volvo S60
  By EFS - December 13 - 10:00 am

  We looked at Mercedes C230 series and Lexus ES 330. There is no comparison in integrity and safety. The 16 inch wheel package adds to the great looks. The heavier glass is a surprising plus in quietness. Even without the turbo there is plenty of power. 100% satisfied with the car. The dealership, unfortunately has some service problems. I have never had a Volvo that didnt go 250,000 miles. I expect no less from this one.

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  Excellent - 2004 Volvo S60
  By efaren monero - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Good performance and safe

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  Great car, be wary of the sch maint - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Timm3175 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for 3 years now and everything about it is great. Fun to drive, comfortable for long trips, etc. My only complaint is the gouging of Volvo for scheduled maintenance. You bring you car in for each of the scheduled maintenace and walk out about 200 bucks lighter each time. The whopper is the 30,000 mile maintenance which ran me $510. If I had to do it all over again, I think I would go with a Mercedes C-Class or a 3 series BMW which doesnt gouge as much for maintanence.