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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  S60R 6spd - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Turboguru - May 24 - 9:20 am

  I bought this car in December of 08, only 4 months later and the car has been in the shop more than Ive had it. Countless little problems, and several Major problems, costing over $3000. Im afraid to drive the car cause I never know when its gonna break next. The turning radius stinks, and it makes random noises. But its leather is top notch, sound system is great when it works, it looks amazing, accelerates great.

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  The S60, it grows on you - 2002 Volvo S60
  By viran12 - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I had never bought a car of this caliber but I looked at others in this range and style and felt that the Volvo S60 was an awesome buy. After buying it I expected EVERYTHING to be perfect. It was after all a $30,000+ automobile and a Volvo. I soon found out there there were several little things to get use to. One was the edvanced A/C controls. They are really out there and ahead of the times. Well after almost four months, I continue to love my car more and more.

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  Great highline luxury sedan! - 2002 Volvo S60
  By H Wright - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I am in the business, and for the money hands down this is the best vehicle in its class. Skip the BMW or Mercedes nameplate and get a well rounded sport sedan. Fun to drive, quality vehicle and the factory warranty covers the lease program timeline also.

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  Like it better than Audi - 2013 Volvo S60
  By mklay - April 30 - 5:02 pm

  Since 1996 I’ve owned various new A4’s, an A6 and A3 (I’ve always preferred Audi’s over BMW’s and Mercedes and never considered VOLVO). In short, after test driving a 2013 S60 T5, “it was a no brainer” I went ahead and leased it on the spot (it was that easy).

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  My first Volvo - 2001 Volvo S60
  By emac2002 - April 30 - 2:00 am

  My first Volvo and not my last! Some minor problems in first 18 months of ownership--rubbing tires, squeaky windshield wipers, rear taillight bulbs that keep burning out. However, an overall excellent car even though maintenance is a bit expensive.

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  So Far, So Good! - 2006 Volvo S60
  By beaner - April 22 - 3:03 pm

  We were looking for an AWD sedan to replace our 9 year old Honda Accord. We didnt care for Subaru at all. All the other AWD sedans we considered came equipped with low-profile wheel rims, which are big trouble on pothole- strewn roads & frost heaves. We had some concerns about Volvo reliability, having owned Hondas for 20 years, but after 28 months and 32k, this car has been a pleasure to own. The 5 cylinder, turbo-charged engine provides plenty of pep when we need it. We would buy another one in a heartbeat.

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  Not your fathers Volvo - 2001 Volvo S60
  By Will - April 16 - 1:03 am

  I must say that this car is total junk. At 60,000 miles the transmission needed to be rebuilt, cost: $2,700. Strut mounts, control arm bushings, alternator, 3 engine mounts, 2 door locks went bad. Bulbs go out at least once ever 2 weeks. Has an annoying idle issue that is recurring and is attributed to dirt on the throttle body. Strange rattles and noises. DANGEROUSLY wide turning radius. I am VERY, VERY, disappointed with the build quality of Volvo.

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  Bad transmission after 2000 miles - 2007 Volvo S60
  By WPBFLA9 - April 13 - 9:03 am

  My transmission conked out after 2,000 miles. I have not yet received any explanation or a repair. I am disgusted with the car and with Volvo. Also, the handling on my old VW Passat is Much better.

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  S-60 R - 6 Speed - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Medicap99 - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive had American performance cars for many years. The Volvo S60 R is my first experience with European performance. The car handles superbly; Accelerates briskly and smoothly; Overall, performs flawlessly. It is an impressive ride.

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  Loved it... with one kid - 2001 Volvo S60
  By mikesvolvo - April 11 - 2:00 am

  We loved the car with one kid. This back seat was not made for multiple kids. Our rear facing car seat worked in the middle. Loved the performance and comfort. Best drive from PHX to Oregon I have ever driven.