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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  New Volvo Owner for LIfe - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Genny6 - June 6 - 10:00 am

  I did a lot of research, shopping and driving of comparable cars. The T5 is a fantastic combination of safety, performance, comfort and luxury. I had seriously considered the S70 (boxy body style) a couple of years ago and now much prefer the sleek and sporty look of the T5. I have put many town and highway miles on the car in 11 months and I enjoy every day on the road. I love the turbo power. It is great fun passing other cars on big hills and the highway with power to spare!

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  volvo - 2004 Volvo S60
  By enzo - June 2 - 10:00 am

  This car is very safe, enjoyable but i just dont fell the ability to peel out- -go rip the tires or go fast. I love the car but, i would rather prefer a subaru impreza or maybe a different volvo or a bmw but, I enjoy this car a lot also.

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  2004 S60R AWD Manual - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Jackseth - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Excellent AWD handling. 6speed shifts well. Launching car from stop is tricky, as the clutch engages at the top end and is very springy. Minimal turbo lag. Lots of engine noise at high RPM. On the mountain roads, at speed, this car turns into a beast. Very fast, very agile. The upper limits of this car are beyond most drivers.

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  LoveVolvoS60 - 2002 Volvo S60
  By SweetTang - May 30 - 2:00 am

  Great Car and fun to drive, Safe, Sporty and looks so ausome.

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  Birthday gift - 2005 Volvo S60
  By JudyW - May 20 - 5:50 am

  My husband bought me the Volvo S 60 for my birthday. It looks incredible and is the most fun to drive. The interior is plush and it handles like a dream. I couldnt be happier.

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  Former volvo lover - 2001 Volvo S60
  By John - May 19 - 8:20 am

  I started with a 122s, then a 240. Loved them. Not this car. Bulbs constantly burning out from day 1. Dealer replaced rear control arms at 30K. Since then weve replaced another $2000 in suspension parts. Problems with air conditioner vents on hot days. They close, even though cold air is still present. Door lock system sometimes fails to lock the passenger door. Will never buy another Volvo.

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  Six Months In, Still Pleased - 2011 Volvo S60
  By originalsix - May 11 - 7:37 am

  No other mid size luxury sedan can compete with the value offered in the S60 T6. Its faster than 2003 BMW 530, it has AWD, bluetooth and ipod, has 5-year free maintenance. All for around $15k lower than the BMW,Audi,Lexus, etc. On the last day of March 11, the dealer gave me invoice price (and preinstalled Bliss and keyless entry at no cost). - Drives more like a Lexus/Infinity than a German car.

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  Love to drive it - 2002 Volvo S60
  By Prescott AZ - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Traded in an S40 (which I loved) for this car. I have no regrets. I look forward to driving this car every chance I get.

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  Nice additio0n to the Volvo line-up - 2006 Volvo S60
  By Mike B - April 28 - 12:50 pm

  Was looking for a car for my wife that had safety, comfort, looks and speed. Also didnt want a common choice (Audi, Infinity, Acura, BMW) however we tested them all. The S60R was a real suprise in the interior department - VERY plush and comfortable. Back seat is for children only, though. Trunk is large, and doors are easy to enter/exit. Safety features are everywhere. Exterior is real sharp with sleek lines and sporty look. The fun part of this car is its speed and handling. High velocity going around a big bend in "advanced" is thrilling - tight with great control. Not the sweetest of sounds when under full throttle, but does grow on you. Brakes are teriffic.

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  No luck for me - 2006 Volvo S60
  By Sue - April 28 - 12:36 pm

  I was trying to save a bit of money so after doing much research, I turned in my BMW for a Volvo. In 4 months time, I have had 3 tire blow outs, replaced a rim, had a faulty passanger airbag that does not work(the sensor had to be ordered since the car is so new) and my ipod adaptor broke. I was tired of spending more time at Volvo service than driving the car. I was fed up with all this happening with a 4 month old car. Today I happily traded the Volvo in for a BMW which I know will be reliable and I am extrememly happy with my decision and my new car.