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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  2007 S60 T5 - 2007 Volvo S60
  By cwlgal - September 8 - 3:03 am

  This car is sneaky fast. Passing on the interstate seems lethargic until you realize youre going 80 - 90 MPH. The day after I bought it I drove 2000 miles round trip from Augusta, GA to Houston, TX and obtained an overall 29 MPG. Volvo recalibrated the engine computer so the car runs on regular gas. Im pleased to report there are no rattles and very little wind noise. It seems solid and has very comfortable seats but has a somewhat harsh ride. The turn radius will drive you crazy, especially in mall parking lots. Overall nice car but Im seriously disappointed in Volvos depreciation rate, much higher than Japanese automobiles.

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  Im a Lifer! - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Edward - September 2 - 7:36 am

  I commute 180 miles round trip each day and this car is a pleasure to sit in. I can even fit my 62" frame in the back and still be comfy. The safety features are amazing even the sunroof is safe! My s60 is quiet inside, except on bad roads it can get a little rough over bumps with no weight in the car. Cornering is actually pretty good, but bumps may require a bit of correction. Its smooth for a front drive car. My non turbo is actually really spunky. Maint. is a little expensive, but talking to other Volvo owners, they swear by the dependability of their cars...so far so good. I like the Volvo because not everyone has them...Im very happy overall with my car

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  One swede car! - 2001 Volvo S60
  By ddh716 - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I was drawn to this car by its sexy styling. The car drives well- predictable, quiet, comfortable, excellent acceleration except from a dead stop. Handling favors comfort over sport. The S60 is thoughtfully designed. For example, the sunroof can be opened or closed with one touch. And theres a position that eliminates boominess common with the roof open and windows shut. Why dont other car makers think like this? Overall, quality is excellent. Gaps are straight and the paint looks 6 inches deep. And the interior is flawless. But there are little rattles.

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  So Far So good - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Bodiej13 - August 27 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for my wife after she looked at BMW 3 series and MB 230. Weve put about 5K miles on it so far with no problems at all to date. The only negative things I can say is the turning radius sucks and the suspension is a bit noisy on bumpy roads. Other than that no complaints. Didnt like the noisy 4 banger on the MB and it seemed smaller. The BMW was the most fun but with similar options would have been 5-8K more and everybody has one.

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  A great buy! - 2009 Volvo S60
  By Jeanie - August 25 - 8:50 am

  I have always driven large suvs (suburban, escalade, Tahoe), but with my new position I needed something to be driving out of town frequently (prev drove Accord, Avalon cts for work travel). I looked at the c class Benz, BMW, Cadillac. But the safety ratings & Volvo service are irreplaceable. The fact that there are no luxury dealerships in my town means that whatever I bought had to have great service & road side assist. I love this car! I wish I could have waited for the new model, but got a terrific deal on this one. You cannot beat Volvo quality no matter how serene & sedate you feel the styling is. Once you drive one & ride in one you are hooked!

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  Awesome - 2003 Volvo S60
  By DanB - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Great car! no problems! never been so happy with a new car. build quality is excellent

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  Bad handling - 2003 Volvo S60
  By hotdog - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Nice car but tracks terrible. It will follow groves in the road and cause you to swerve to regain control. Also during hard acceleration vehicle will swerve from side to side.

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  AWD - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Martin - August 15 - 11:10 pm

  Purchased the S60 in 2008 since it was one of the few sedans offering AWD which I need in the winter. I loved this car since my first drive and almost 2 years later, still am extremely happy. May be the best vehicle I have owned and Im 65 years old. I would seriously consider purchasing another S60 again. I received excellent service from the dealership. It came with an expended 100k miles, 6 yr warranty which has already paid dividends

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  You may have big trouble with S60 - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Incubus - August 14 - 4:13 pm

  Well, Ford-owned Volvo needs to improve a lot. After riding a year, the engine of S60 stops sometimes during maneuver and the big problem cannot be fixed yet. The suspension is now too soft to give firm ride comfort and the interior makes a rather noisy sound.

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  Full Package - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Senior - August 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my car so much - I never even considered a Volvo until I drove the S60 T5! It handles great, even on ice, and has quite a kick to it. Of course, there are slight problems - Ive had my car in the shop to repair the CD player twice already in 6 months, a rod has been replaced and my alignment is off. Random things seem to go wrong and I hate the fact that there is no trunk release inside the car!! Still, its a smooth ride and I love it despite its flaws!