Volvo S60 Review

2011 Volvo S60 1.6T 4dr Sedan AWD

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 three turbocharged five-cylinder engines instead. Styling is another area in which the Volvo S60 is unique. Even after a remarkably long production cycle, this midsize sedan's body lines retain a modern and pleasing Scandinavian distinctiveness. 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.

Where the S60 does lag behind other entry-luxury sedans is on the performance front. The Swedish sedan's handling dynamics are a bit dull and unpolished compared to newer rivals. Standing starts in the 2.5T and T5 can feel a little sluggish when compared to most competitors featuring larger-displacement six-cylinder engines, and although these Volvos ride smoothly, they're just not as composed over bumps as many of their rivals. The S60 also suffers from a backseat that's lacking in legroom. This midrange Volvo could be worth a look, especially as a used model. But the car's long time on the market without a redesign has made it an increasingly poor choice for a new car compared to newer competitors.

Current Volvo S60

There are two Volvo S60 trim levels -- 2.5T and T5. The base 2.5T is reasonably well equipped, while the T5 is a bit more athletic, thanks to an extra helping of horsepower, bigger wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. Important options for the S60 include a navigation system and a 13-speaker Dolby sound system. As you might expect, all Volvo S60s are protected by an umbrella of Volvo safety features -- including stability control, anti-whiplash seats and full-length side curtain airbags -- and have performed extremely well in crash testing.

Each S60 model has its own engine. The S60 2.5T comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder rated for 208 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission routes power either to the front wheels or all four on all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. The S60 T5 features a slightly smaller 2.4-liter inline-5 but uses a higher-boost turbocharger to produce 257 horses and 258 lb-ft of torque -- and a fair amount of turbo lag and torque steer, too. Unfortunately, the T5 is front-wheel-drive only, but buyers have their choice of a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Volvo S60's cabin is functional but doesn't feel especially upscale unless you order the leather upholstery and premium audio system. The controls are nicely weighted, but the pictograms placed on the various functions can be difficult for the uninitiated to understand. There's generous seating for four -- five in a pinch -- though rear passengers will find the legroom tight. Trunk capacity measures nearly 14 cubic feet, and the 60/40-split rear seat folds to handle extra-long cargo.

In reviews, we've found that the S60 offers a ride biased more toward comfort than speed. Handling is adequate, but the limits are modest on 2.5T and T5 models. Judged on its own merits, the Volvo S60 would be satisfying to own. However, with so many newer, more refined rivals crowding this segment, it's a good idea to check out some of the S60's competitors before you buy.

Used Volvo S60 Models

The Volvo S60 debuted in 2001 as a replacement for the S70. There have been numerous changes to the S60 since its long-ago debut. Initially, it was offered in base 2.4, midlevel 2.4T or range-topping T5 trim. 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 '03, the AWD sedan switched to the current 208-hp 2.5-liter engine, prompting Volvo to rename it the 2.5T AWD. In 2004, 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. All '07 S60s received revised front fascia styling. For 2008, the high-performance R model was dropped.

Buyers interested in a used S60 should keep these changes in mind, as older S60s may lack some desirable features. Also, the swift S60 R is an interesting and highly capable used option for enthusiasts looking for something a little different.

SELECT A SPECIFIC VOLVO S60 MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.