2021 Volvo S60

Pros: Nicely finished interior; invigorating performance of T8 models; full complement of safety and technology features

Cons: Complicated infotainment interface, small trunk for class

CG Says: The 2021 Volvo S60 drops its turbocharged and supercharged T6 engine option, but gains standard steering-linked, keyless entry, power trunk release, LED headlights, blind-spot alert, and power-folding mirrors with automatic dimming. The T8 plug-in hybrid is now badged Recharge. The S60 is the smaller of Volvo’s two midsize sedans. Two basic powertrains are offered. The base T5 is powered by a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The topline all-wheel-drive Recharge plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged and supercharged version of the 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor for a total of 400 hp. A T8 Polestar Engineered model gets a specially tuned 415-hp version of the plug-in-hybrid powertrain, along with sport suspension, upgraded brakes, and other performance-focused trim features. All S60s have an 8-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include forward collision warning and mitigation with pedestrian/cyclist/large-animal detection, lane-departure warning and mitigation, oncoming traffic mitigation, and road-sign identification. Also available is the Pilot Assist driver assistance system that can keep the car in a chosen lane at a selected speed up to 80 mph. However, Pilot Assist is not fully autonomous and requires the driver to hold the steering wheel. The redesigned 2019 Volvo S60 was the first U.S.-built car from this Swedish-based and Chinese-owned automaker—it’s assembled in a new plant in Charleston, South Carolina. The S60 also represented the completion of Volvo’s transition to a new brand-signature design language, a process that started with the redesign of the XC90 midsize SUV for 2016. In addition to its striking looks, the S60 boasts classy interior trimmings, up-to-the-minute technology features, a good ride/handling balance, and satisfying 4-cylinder powertrains. It’s a compelling alternative to its European rivals.