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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  Been driving this car for 17 months - 2007 Volvo S60
  By Drives-A-Lot - June 14 - 3:36 pm

  I have been driving my S60 AWD since July of 2007. I drive from northern New England to New York City and back every other week. This car has held up well. My fuel economy seems fine (I dont pay very close attention). The comfort of the seats has remained solid, the electronics still work fine, in short, everything is still in working order. It has handled very well in snow/sleet conditions, though I recommend engaging the W option when doing so. The trunk storage is pretty good, the rear seats, while comfortable, dont have a boatload of legroom for adults. When I got this I was considering the BMW 3 Series, the S60 and the Saab 9-3. I am still very happy I decided to get the S60.

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  GREAT everyday driver - 2004 Volvo S60
  By Tara - June 11 - 6:53 am

  I have had this car for a little over one year now, and it is fantastic. I drive it everyday, in every weather condition. Handles great, love the actice chassis controls. Gas mileage is wonderful, as long as youre not constantly in boost. Looks great with the factory body kit..nice and sporty. Highly recommend this car!

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  anticipate high cost of ownership - 2004 Volvo S60
  By John - June 1 - 2:13 am

  I am at 85K miles now. Repairs to date: all valves replaced, power steering pump replaced, multiple hoses replaced; etc. Far higher cost of ownership than prior cars; S60 was supposed to be a field proven model. I cant tell if my dealership is exploiting me or if the car is just built to fall apart. My other vehicle, a 97 Honda Civic, is bombproof - no major repairs, >> 100K miles. I will not buy another Volvo; for the price and maintenance, the math is not compelling.

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  My first Volvo. Love it!!! - 2009 Volvo S60
  By Jeremy - May 31 - 3:40 am

  I really really like this car. My last car was a 2007 Camry. I test drove some BMWs and Benzs and liked this better. It is pretty quick and easy to drive. It can go pretty fast when you need it to. I have gotten so many compliments on it too. The engine sounds really good and you gett all the torque from 1500-4500 rpms.

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  Almost Perfect - 2004 Volvo S60
  By 30 Somethign - May 20 - 10:00 am

  Agree with reviewers who say that this is the one car you should have if you dont want to buy a Mercedes AMG and an SUV. Fantastically comfortable drivers feel behind the wheel, very responsive handling and superior sound from the stereo. Doubles as a family car but really fits in any circumstance.

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  Gremlins? - 2002 Volvo S60
  By CEM - May 15 - 1:33 am

  First 2 yrs of ownership was plagued with several gremlin issues. Electronics primarily due to faulty computer chips, which had the car not been under warranty, I would have been very upset about cost. Bulbs also, burn out very quickly. Was advised by service Volvo uses a GM bulb. Seems a bit silly, especially in modles with daytime running lights. Now, at 3 yrs the car has been trouble free (fingers crossed). Good dealership, ready to work with you on issues and after friendly persuasion, have extended no charge on little fixes.

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  Very Satisfied - 2003 Volvo S60
  By Miss Satisfied - May 11 - 3:56 pm

  I had a Honda Accord, a Lexus, Acura TL before this car and I LOVE my Volvo S60!!! I always wanted one when they got rid of the boxy body style. I get lots of compliments. It has a great extended warranty 5 yrs or 100,000 miles. I just wish I gotten the heated seats option, but from reading these reviews they dont sound warm enough. Overall, a great buy and a good investment as any when it comes to a buying a car.

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  Two Strikes Your Out - 2005 Volvo S60
  By Not Satisfied - May 7 - 4:10 pm

  After 8 months and 11 service calls Volvo replaced my first S60R Lemon. The second S60R I recieved in 9/2004. I am sorry to say this car was also a lemon. The wheel bearings went out, rear tail lights went out, it burned 1 quart of oil every 1000 miles, the chasis started to loosen up after 6000 miles. I just got rid of the car and took a financial hit, but I was tired of driving a loaner more than the actual car. DO NOT BUY THIS VEHICLE (unless you want to know your service people very well)

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  My S-60 - 2004 Volvo S60
  By LesLutz - May 6 - 10:00 am

  Excellent Car that I highly recommend.

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  Volvos Mussle Car - 2002 Volvo S60
  By Whispering Jack - May 3 - 3:20 am

  This is the highest performance sedan I have ever owned. The acceleration is second to none in its class. This is combined with all of the safety and comfort features one would expect from Volvo. The result is not your fathers typical Volvo.