Skip advert
Advertisement

Volvo S60 (2005) review

There's no doubt the S60 is one of Volvo's landmark models, after it banished the Swede's boxy styling to history in 2000.

With extra performance and impressive economy, Volvo's five-cylinder D5 diesel is an impressive addition to the already desirable S60 line-up. And although oil-burners already make up 60 per cent of the model's sales, we can't help but feel that figure is set to climb even higher.

There's no doubt the S60 is one of Volvo's landmark models, after it banished the Swede's boxy styling to history in 2000. But despite the compact executive's appeal, it has never been hugely popular in the UK. BMW sold more than three times as many 3-Series here last year, with the Mercedes C-Class not far behind.

But, Volvo says, the time has come for this to change. And with well over 60 per cent of S60s leaving the Gothenburg factory boasting a diesel engine, it is no surprise hopes are resting on a new turbodiesel to make the car more competitive and boost sales.

The new 2.4-litre five-cylinder unit, based on the existing D5 oil-burner, has already been sampled by us in the two-tonne XC90 SUV (Issue 871). It impressed with its refinement and performance, but the unit stacks up even better in the new saloon.

Power has risen from 163bhp to 185bhp, while torque has jumped from 340Nm to 400Nm. And all of this has led to a huge increase in muscle. The 0-60mph dash now takes 8.2 seconds, and top speed is 143mph. However, it is the in-gear performance that has improved the most, along with cruising refinement. Yet despite the comfortable seats and well equipped cabin, the S60 still has its work cut out in this ultra-competitive class.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volvo S60

Volvo S60

RRP £38,765Used from £18,600
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,364 off RRP*Used from £8,595
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,919 off RRP*Used from £14,800
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,951
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025