Volvo S60

We've always liked the S60. It's Volvo's best-looking saloon of recent years, and is a desirable compact executive, offering more space than the BMW 3-Series or Audi A4 for less money. Its smart interior has the best seats outside the premium sector.

Auto Express Car Reviews

July 2004

We've always liked the S60. It's Volvo's best-looking saloon of recent years, and is a desirable compact executive, offering more space than the BMW 3-Series or Audi A4 for less money. Its smart interior has the best seats outside the premium sector.
Even better, for used car buyers it's now a real bargain. The Volvo may be a Beemer or Merc rival in spirit, but residual prices fall just above those of a Ford Mondeo or Vauxhall Vectra. It's also becoming more common used as early cars reach the end of fleet deals.
The best variant is the D5 diesel, although as it was launched in 2001, it costs a bit more. Turbocharged petrol models are good, too, particularly the rapid T5. Indeed, this car is a hidden gem and a bargain, as higher running costs deter buyers. Depreciation makes up for this, so you can snare an affordable and durable performance saloon.
Checklist

1. Interior: cup-holders are easy to break and central locking can be un-reliable. Ensure doors and tailgate lock and unlock, but fault should be covered by warranty.

2. Engine: we've heard reports of early D5 models suffering a broken turbo pipe. Volvo has issued a recall to fit a redesigned component.

3. Gearbox: the manual transmission can be stiff in some examples, and a tricky reverse gear is a noted quibble. Also, the clutch is a little heavy, although this is normal.

4. Doors: there have been a few reports of leaking door seals on the earliest models. Feel the carpets for dampness, look for stains and investigate the sills for any signs of surface corrosion.

5. Wheels: suspension geometry is sensitive - if it's out, the car will wear out tyres quickly. A handful of owners have experienced problems with the suspension bushes and front balljoints.
Driving Impressions
The Volvo S60's soft ride and lavish seats are soothing, while its impressive dash is clear and comes with Dolby surround-sound audio in SE spec.
Engines are smooth and powerful, with the D5 diesel being rightly popular. T5 models are lively, but dull steering delivers little feel. The chassis is prone to understeer when pressed, but for normal motoring it's fine. Tank-like build makes the car hard-wearing.
Glass's View
Despite being very well specified, the S60 generally struggles to find ready buyers in the used market. Its badge doesn't quite carry the image enjoyed by the likes of BMW or Merc-edes and this is reflected in its second-hand prices. The S60 has some of the lowest residual values for its sector. Big cars are generally un-wanted on the used scene, and this is no exception. Petrol examples are very difficult to move on, although diesel D5s are easier to find homes for. Jeff Paterson, senior editor, Glass's Guide
Life With An S60
I would have never considered a Volvo until the S60, but I fancied a change from the BMW 3-Series I usually drove - and it was the perfect solution. It's not as involving as the BMW, but more comfortable. Dennis Wiseman, Hatfield, Hertfordshire
My S60 hasn't been quite as reliable as previous Volvos I've owned, but it's by far and away the most comfortable car I have ever driven. Anne Cleeves, Worcester