Volvo S60 (2004) review
Even with Volvo's new sportier image, it's the estates which make the company famous and draw in the buyers.
The cosmetic changes to the S60 are subtle, but they give a neater overall appearance. And the plush new materials, plus improved build, now rival the Germans' high standards. However, this Volvo still can't compete for sheer driving pleasure. We recommend a test drive, though, if only to sample the seats.
Even with Volvo's new sportier image, it's the estates which make the company famous and draw in the buyers. So while the sleek S60 has always been a fine car, it's never been top of the shopping list for those looking for an executive saloon. Three years since its launch and, along with the V70 we drove last week, Volvo has made the car look a bit sharper with a mid-life makeover.
New front and rear light clusters, body-coloured bumpers and side door mouldings plus a fresh grille are all subtle changes but they give the Volvo a more imposing presence. Inside, there's a new centre dash unit, surrounded by aluminium or walnut wood trim depending on the spec level, while the steering wheel and instrument binnacle have also been revamped.
The S60's seats are now softer and more supportive, making them the most comfortable in the class. However, we're not so keen on the new centre tunnel console, with its 'multi-function armrest'. While it has enough cup-holders and storage to rival an MPV, the driver's arm keeps hitting it.
Unlike some mid-life makeovers, the changes to the S60 aren't simply cosmetic. The engine range remains the same, but the range-topping T5 petrol powerplant has increased in size from 2.3 to 2.4 litres, and now has dual variable valve timing and a larger turbocharger. The output is up to 260bhp, and peak torque is delivered much lower down the rev range.
As well as improving acceleration times, this low-end shove makes for relaxed motorway driving, as there's no need to shift down a gear when you want to overtake slower-moving traffic. It's still not the quietest of engines, though, and while it's hushed at cruising speeds, at high revs its boomy nature is typical of Volvo's five-cylinder units.
Another major change is the Four-C active chassis, which is an expensive £1,100 option and gives the choice of two settings - Comfort and Sport. The V70 we drove was happier in Sport mode, but the S60 is better suited to Comfort, which minimises body movement and smooths out tarmac imperfections. However, there's much more to the options list than Four-C - an extensive package is available.
Other add-ons now include water- repellent glass and a spaceball gear-lever. The most interesting extra is the BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) safety device, which uses a digital cam-era in the door mirrors to monitor if another vehicle is moving within the car's blind spot zone. An amber light on each A-pillar then warns the driver. It's certainly clever, but it still requires you to take your eyes off the road.
It will take a brave buyer to choose the Volvo over the more conventional German saloons, especially at the T5 SE's end of the market. But for those who desire to be different, the revised S60 can still cut it with the best.
