About the Volvo S60
AI-generatedThe Volvo S60 is a premium compact executive saloon that combines Scandinavian design elegance with impressive safety credentials and refined driving dynamics. Now in its third generation (launched 2018), the S60 competes directly with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It offers a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines, plus plug-in hybrid variants, all paired with smooth automatic transmissions and typically featuring front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. Volvo's reputation for safety is evident throughout the S60, with comprehensive standard equipment including advanced driver assistance systems. The interior showcases minimalist Swedish design with high-quality materials, the intuitive Sensus infotainment system, and excellent comfort levels. While perhaps not as engaging to drive as its German rivals, the S60 excels in refinement, practicality, and offering a distinctively different premium alternative. The second generation (2010-2018) remains popular on the used market, offering strong value and proven reliability.
Known Issues
Known Issues
Second Generation (Mk2)
2010-2018
- D5 diesel engine turbo failures, particularly on earlier models (2010-2013)
- Dual-mass flywheel wear on diesel models causing vibration and noise
- Electronic parking brake module failures requiring expensive replacement
- Front suspension bushes wear prematurely on UK roads
- AdBlue system faults on later diesel models (2016 onwards)
- Water pump failures on T5 petrol engines around 60,000-80,000 miles
Third Generation (Mk3)
2018-Present
- Sensus infotainment system occasional software glitches requiring updates
- Mild hybrid system battery issues on early B4/B5 models
- Parking sensor failures, particularly rear sensors
- DPF regeneration issues on D4 diesel if used primarily for short journeys
- Premature brake disc wear reported on some T8 hybrid models
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,800-£2,400
Insurance Group
25-35
Average Service
£450
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£28,000 - £35,000
£22,000 - £28,000
£16,000 - £22,000
£7,000 - £11,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional safety features and crash test ratings
- Comfortable and refined ride quality
- High-quality Scandinavian interior design and materials
- Strong range of efficient engines including PHEV options
- Excellent standard equipment levels
- Distinctive styling stands out from German rivals
Cons
- Not as engaging to drive as BMW 3 Series or Jaguar XE
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2020 - Third-generation model with refined engines, updated software, and improved mild-hybrid technology while avoiding early production issues
- 2017 - Final year of second generation with most issues resolved, good value used purchase with proven reliability
- 2022 - Mature third-generation model with all software updates, excellent safety features, and strong PHEV refinement
Worst Years
- 2011 - Early second-generation model prone to D5 diesel turbo failures and various teething problems
- 2019 - First full production year of third generation with some early infotainment bugs and mild-hybrid teething issues
- 2014 - Mid-cycle second generation with notable electronic parking brake failures and suspension wear problems
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for oil leaks around turbo and engine seals
- Listen for turbo whining or excessive diesel rattle on D5 engines
- Test for smooth acceleration without hesitation
- Verify water pump operation on petrol models - check for leaks
- On PHEV models, confirm battery charges correctly and holds charge
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The third-generation S60 is the first in the model's history not to offer a diesel engine in certain markets, reflecting Volvo's commitment to electrification
Volvo's Polestar performance division offers specially tuned S60 models with enhanced power outputs and chassis upgrades
The S60 shares its SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform with the larger S90 and V90 models, providing exceptional crash protection
All modern S60 models are limited to 112mph as part of Volvo's vision to eliminate deaths in its vehicles
Alternatives to Consider
BMW 3 Series
7/10More engaging to drive with sharper handling, strong engine range, and better residual values
Audi A4
7/10Similar premium quality with more conservative styling, excellent interior, and quattro all-wheel drive
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
7/10Premium badge prestige, refined ride quality, and wide engine choice with strong diesel options
Owner Tips
- 1Diesel models need regular longer runs to prevent DPF clogging - avoid if you mainly do short urban journeys
- 2Keep the Sensus infotainment system updated via Wi-Fi to avoid software glitches
- 3Check service history thoroughly, particularly for turbo and flywheel replacement on diesel models
- 4Consider extended warranty coverage for electronic parking brake and hybrid system components
- 5Use premium fuel in petrol models for optimal performance and engine longevity
- 6Front suspension bushes should be inspected annually and replaced before they affect handling
- 7T8 PHEV models require regular charging to maximize efficiency and protect the battery
- 8AdBlue top-ups are essential on diesel models - don't let it run empty as this prevents starting
Check a specific Volvo S60
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