2018 Volvo S60
Overview
When you think of sport sedans, the usual suspects tend to come from Germany. But for something a little different—and just as competent as the established players—why not look to Scandinavia? The 2018 Volvo S60 features a stylish exterior, sporty powertrains, and a comfortable interior, as well as impressive fuel efficiency and the benefits of Volvo’s fanatical commitment to safety. It’s definitely worth a look.
Performance
The 2018 Volvo S60 offers an impressive balance of performance and fuel economy, and a variety of powertrain options to suit different tastes and budgets. Simplified trim levels make it even easier to find the model that's right for you.
The S60 T5 Dynamic and T5 Inscription (long-wheelbase) models are each powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This particular engine produces 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive.
With that combination, the S60 will do 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds flat. And while it’s designed to be fun to drive, this powertrain will also return an EPA-rated 29 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway) in FWD and 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway) in AWD configurations.*
The S60 T6 AWD R-Design uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six which produces 302 hp and 295 lb-ft when paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T6 AWD R-Design will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds with an EPA-rated fuel economy of up to 32 mpg on the highway.*
Features
The 2018 Volvo S60 is available only as a four-door, five-seat sedan, although Volvo also offers the similar V60 wagon, as well as the S60 Cross Country, which is something of a cross between a sedan and a crossover. Pricing starts at $34,100.**
Standard equipment on the T5 Dynamic includes LED daytime running lights, power heated outside mirrors, a power moonroof, power driver's seat, 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel, and Volvo’s Sensus system with a seven-inch display screen.
The T5 Inscription model includes all of the applicable standard features of the base model and adds a TFT instrument cluster display, a backup camera, power front passenger's seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror, navigation, and other features. It’s surpassed by the Inscription Platinum, which adds auto-dimming outside mirrors, a 12-speaker harman/kardon® audio system, and Volvo's Convenience and Technology packages. The Convenience package includes power-folding mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, and a grocery bag holder while the Technology enhancements include driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlight control, and an updated forward collision warning and mitigation system as well as a lane departure warning and intervention system.
The T6 AWD R-Design includes the 2.0-liter Direct-Injected Turbocharged & Supercharged Engine and all of the features of the Platinum model, plus special leather upholstery, sport pedals, exterior trim, and other add-ons to give it a more lively appearance.
Design
The 2018 S60 shows off Volvo’s ever-evolving design language, which does a lot with a little. At first glance, the S60 may not look as dramatic as other cars in its class, but every detail appears well thought out, with a specific purpose. From the Volvo-signature grille design to the tastefully integrated LEDs to the fast, coupe-like roofline, the S60 is minimalism at its finest.
It’s the same story on the inside. Volvo’s designers resisted the temptation to create an overly-stylized dashboard, leaving a space that’s easy to navigate, with controls that are easy to find and use. Crisp analog gauges are standard, with a TFT instrument cluster also available. Volvo also believes that comfortable seats are an important safety feature because they can help reduce driver fatigue. To that end, the S60’s front seats are supportive, but also suitable for long journeys.
Volvo’s Sensus Connect system adds several technology features, including a cloud-based interface with a digital owner’s manual and apps like Stitcher, Pandora®, Yelp, and Glympse. There’s an available onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, and navigation system.
Safety
Volvo is known for its obsession with safety, so it’s not surprising that the 2018 S60 comes with a long list of standard and optional safety features. Standard equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, City Safety, Whiplash Protection Seating Systems (WHIPS), and a full complement of airbags.
Optional features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and pedestrian/cyclist detection with automatic braking, Distance Alert, Driver Alert Control, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, park assist, and a rearview camera.
Bottom Line
The 2018 Volvo S60 is a smart, stylish, and sporty sedan, and is an excellent choice for drivers seeking outstanding Swedish style, safety, and performance.
Be sure to contact us online or visit Volvo Cars Silver Spring at 3121 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904 to schedule a test drive.
* EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
** Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image: Volvo