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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  Jack of All Trades - 2006 Volvo S60
  By spinner - July 30 - 3:13 am

  I wanted a performance car, but my wife said I had to get a sedan. I initially looked at an STI, but figured Id need a kidney transplant after a long trip. Id never heard of the S60R, but when I learned about it, I found it fit my lifestyle to a "T". Its a sports car when I want it to be, and a people hauler when it needs to be. The trunk is surprisingly large. Passengers cant stop commenting on how supple the leather is. I cant wait to go to work in the morning because I get to drive my car there. I bet itd be a kick on the racetrack...on/off ramps are a hoot. This is the best car Ive ever owned. Almost as fast an S4 for 10-15 grand less.

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  Setting the record straight on 2.4T - 2002 Volvo S60
  By esp63 - July 22 - 2:00 am

  My previous review somehow calculated a bizarre overall rating. This is a wonderful,well-balanced vehicle. Comfort, quality, convenience, styling- has it all. Handling is good(not a 10/10ths car, more of a 9/10ths) and rewards subtle input with responsiveness and precision. The cabin is a comfy cocoon that imparts a feeling of stability and security that has to be felt to be appreciated. 2.4t with premium, touring, tethys 17" wheels, geartronic

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  RRRRRR - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Muzics - July 19 - 9:26 pm

  Although the car is new with 1250 miles on it, its definately a good deal. Not only is the car most comfortable, but a good performer for the money. So far no problems with the vehicle it drives great and has a lovely style and interior. Turbo lag is non existant and it makes you want to drive it the more you drive it. So far im very happy with my purchase its understated,fast and a good alternative to much higher priced vehicles. For the performance, style and all the safety I was sold before I actually bought it.

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  So far so good... - 2007 Volvo S60
  By Ybba - July 18 - 4:23 am

  Just got into this vehicle after much research (1 yr). It came down to S60 vs. TL. S60 won because of cabin comfort (incredible!), fold flat rear seats, 8-way passenger seating, hand-brake location (driver side), Regular fuel & Trunk capacity. Overall Im very satisfied with the ride. Makes you feel like driving all day... Its been 14 years since Ive driven a new car (came from a 93 Integra which is the best car in the world!!!). Its going to take some time getting use to all this new technology. Will keep you posted...

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  A fun ride, almost a sportscar ! - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Jumpin_George - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I like the power of the 2.5T, but as Edmunds describes you have to deal with turbo lag. It is excellent in the snow and ice, the AWD system combined with a good set of snowtires allows me great control and feeling of security. Nice leather interior, decent sound system, well engineered features and looks great !

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  Like My Volvo! - 2006 Volvo S60
  By collmm - July 11 - 10:40 am

  The S60 is reliable, comfortable and fun to drive. Both interior and exterior styling are sexy beautiful with nice fit and finish. Accelerates and brakes nicely. You really have to DRIVE this car on clover leaf type on/off ramps-the steering jerks and fights you all the way! Rear passengers (that can tolerate the limited leg room) complain of car sickness because the rear seating position is low and back end of car tends to roll when cornering. Ive owned the car for 13 months-no repairs except for a broken gas cap (broke when removed to fill-up in very cold weather). Mileage could be improved as Im averaging only 20.4 mpg (at least it runs on regular)!

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  Nice car, but........ - 2001 Volvo S60
  By wm - July 7 - 10:00 am

  This is a very nice car; comfortable, nice looking, non-turbo model but still plenty powerful. 3 years old and still rides and feels like a new car. Bought for my wife due to features and safety. Rear vision could be better; my wife has a hard time seeing out the back of the car. One glaring problem: this vehicle eats bulbs. Ive had it less than one year and have gone through 1 headlight bulb, 2 brake light bulbs and about 4 or 5 turn signal bulbs. Thankfully, our local dealer has been excellent and has replaced all bulbs expeditiously (no appointment necessary) and at no cost to me.

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  ....good value - 2006 Volvo S60
  By Cable knit sweater - July 6 - 3:03 pm

  When the lease on my Saab 9-3 recently expired I researched available replacements. The "usual suspects" from Japan, Germany and Sweden.... The Volvo S-60T met my needs. We have owned 3 Volvos in the past and have been satisfied. The combination of features, adding the Luxury and Sport packages, and price incentives at the time of lease, were not matched by the competition. Front seat comfort is exemplary , rear seat legroom is tight, though the seats themselves are comfortable. The handling is excellent, ride comfortable and fit and finish is flawless. After one month I am thoroughly satisfied.

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  I Always Smile - 2004 Volvo S60
  By yoyoman - July 2 - 10:00 am

  Itll be my one year anniversary with my R ... and I still smile everytime I turn the ignition :) Fast, good looks .... and sooo comfortable The car is a rocket on the highway ... and hugs corners like a dream. But what goes on with the squeeky brakes??

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  Fantastic car! - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Julia S. - June 18 - 10:00 am

  Ok, so Ive had the car for less than a week. I absolutely love it. The 2.5T S60 2004 has incredible styling, power, and luxury. Ive never owned a Volvo, but between the super experience at the dealer and the car itself, Ill be buying Volvos for a long, long time. Its a luxury car without the high price. I was torn between the S60 and a Honda Accord. No contest. The S60 is better built, drives better, and its not what everyone else is driving! Yet.