Volvo S60
Volvo S60

2015 Volvo S60

Pros: Crisp handling; impressive-for-the-class projected fuel economy from new 4-cylinder engine; unique available safety equipment; some testers prefer S60’s traditional push-button audio and climate controls to the touchscreen and/or joystick interfaces of many class rivals

Cons: Cramped rear-seat space; stiff ride with available 19-inch tires, acceleration isn’t very linear with 4-cylinder engines; unrefined operation of 4-cylinders’ start/stop feature

CG Says: The Volvo S60 gets new powertrains for 2015, along with a companion wagon body style called V60 (see separate review). A “Park Assist Pilot” parallel parking system is newly available as well. Two versions of Volvo’s new “Drive-E” 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine join the S60 roster: The base T5 model is turbocharged and puts out 240 horsepower; the sportier T6 version is both turbocharged and supercharged and makes 302 hp. Both of these engines are paired with a new 8-speed transmission and feature a fuel-saving start/stop function. The 2.5-liter 5-cylinder and 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engines are carried over, but they are available only in all-wheel drive S60s. Being a Volvo, the S60 is available with a host of safety equipment, including Lane Keeping Aid and a Pedestrian Detection system that can also detect cyclists. Overall, S60 offers a likeable blend of vivid performance, distinctive styling, and upscale interior trim–as well as the safety features expected of a Volvo. While the sporty AWD R-Design has more power and sharper handling, its stiffer ride and much higher price make it a less compelling choice.

The Facts
Class Premium Midsize Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Volvo
Nation of Manufacture Belgium
Base Prices T5: $33,300
AWD T5: $34,800
T5 Premier: $35,800
AWD T5 Premier: $37,300
T5 Premier Plus: $36,550
AWD T5 Premier Plus: $38,050
T5 Platinum: $39,150
AWD T5 Platinum: $40,650
T6: $38,150
T6 Premier Plus: $38,900
T6 Platinum: $41,500
AWD T6 R-Design: $42,700
AWD T6 R-Design Platinum: $45,700

Base Engine
turbocharged (T5) or turbocharged/supercharged (T6) 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
240 (T5), 302 (T6)
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
24-25
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
35-37

Optional Engine
turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder
Horsepower
250
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
20
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
29

Optional Engine
turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder
Horsepower
325
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
19
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
28

Volvo S60
2015 Volvo S60 R-Design
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