Volvo S60 review - Interior, design and technology

Marking the end of the Volvo line-up’s transition to the brand’s latest design language, the S60 cuts a sharp look inherited from the V60 and sits on Volvo’s CMA platform, shared with the S90, XC90 and XC60. The removal of the estate rear end has allowed Volvo’s designers to apply a totally new look around the back, with a small lip spoiler headlining a tailgate using a distinctive E-shaped set of LED tail-lights. Most S60s now boast a distinctly sporty appearance, owing to the R-Design bodykit, while the Inscription gets a bit more brightwork outside.

Alloy wheels in 18, 19 and 20-inch sizes are available, but just four metallic paint colours make up the total palette. Buyers can select optional faux twin-tailpipes and a colour co-ordinated exterior styling kit.

A number of helpful exterior accessories can be purchased and fitted from Volvo. On the S60’s options list you’ll find a bike carrier for three bikes, a 430 litre roof box, a ski rack and even a canoe holder.

Inside you’ll find an interior and dashboard wholly lifted from the V60 estate. Volvo’s interiors have impressed us as of late owing to their neat designs and high quality materials, and the S60 is no exception. R-Design models are slightly sportier with blue detailing, but customisation options are limited. For example, you can only have charcoal leather upholstery in the S60. If you want a lighter tone, the Inscription model comes with Nappa leather upholstery as standard. Sports seats are standard fit in the R-Design car, as is a fully digital instrument panel sizing up at 12.3-inches.

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Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

Sitting in the middle of the dashboard and flanked by two large, vertical aligned vents is a nine-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system, which like the digital dials, is standard fit on all S60s and complete with navigation, voice control, and smartphone linking apps. The portrait orientation is great for navigation purposes, and the display itself is very straightforward and slick to swipe through.

Elsewhere, you’ll find Volvo’s On Call connected services platform is also included as standard, as is a head-up display broadcast onto the windscreen, and an excellent 10-speaker surround sound system. Two USB ports can be accessed up front.

Optional tech available includes a rear-view camera and Volvo’s Pilot Assist driver assistance technology. A 14-speaker system developed by audio specialists Harmon Kardon is optional, and standard on the T8 Polestar Engineered model. You can even go one higher with a 15 speaker, 1,100 Watt setup developed by Bowers & Wilkins.