Volvo S60 Review
The S60 now comes with a choice of 3 different engines - a 2.0 litre turbo petrol with 180bhp, (the 2.5T engine has recently been deleted from the range) and 2 different powered versions of a 2.4 Turbodiesel engine, either with 163 or 185 bhp in the D5 variant, all have plenty of go, but the D5 is easily the most popular, and our pick of the range. The Petrol engine is pretty thirsty, whereas the diesel gives a pretty decent 42-44 mpg on average despite its size.
The chassis on the S60 has recently been revised for a sportier feel, but doesn't put the car on a level with something line a BMW 3 series dynamically - as this isn't something the average Volvo buyer looks for in a car anyway. The still retains a good degree of comfort, and its wonderful on motorways - one of the reasons the car was chosen by so many Police forces. Wind noise is very well suppressed, and road noise depends on your choice of alloys, go for the sport versions on the lower profile tyres and firmer suspension, and you will notice a bit of a rumble. Engines are relatively quiet too, with the diesel giving off a satisfying growl if you push harder.
Safety equipment levels are as you would expect from a Volvo - very good indeed ,with excellent crash protection, a host of electronic driving aids, and airbags everywhere should the worst happen, as backed up by the high Ncap score.
Once inside the car, the quality of fit and finish is excellent, and the materials used for surfaces are all top grade plastics, and the overall layout and design is very functional, if lacking somewhat in flair. Drivers can choose between the comfort seats on the SE or Dynamic seats on the sportier versions, either way the driving position is spot on.
Cabn size is huge, highlighting one of the S60's traditional issues - exactly where does it fit in to the marketplace - it's the size of a BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E Class, but pitched closer to the much smaller 3 Series in price, which has led to a little confusion both within the motoring press and public as to which cars they should be comparing it to.
Equipment levels are good too, all cars have alloys, climate control, cruise control, electric windows, CD player etc, and a huge options list is available. Most popular in the range are the D5 SE Geartronic (automatic) models.
Overall the S60 is a good solid car, not as capable dynamically as some competition, but good value nonetheless, if showing its age a little now. It is unlikely to be directly replaced in the range, with the new XC60 off roader likely to fill the slot the S60 leaves.
