About the Volvo V60
AI-generatedThe Volvo V60 is a premium Swedish estate car that combines Scandinavian design elegance with practical family versatility. Launched in its second generation in 2018, it offers a refined driving experience, excellent build quality, and Volvo's renowned safety credentials. Available with a range of efficient petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the V60 targets buyers seeking an alternative to German rivals like the BMW 3 Series Touring and Audi A4 Avant. The V60 features a spacious, beautifully crafted interior with high-quality materials and Volvo's intuitive Sensus infotainment system. Boot space is generous at 529 litres, expanding to 1,441 litres with the rear seats folded. The estate delivers a comfortable, composed ride with responsive handling, making it equally suited to motorway cruising and country roads. With its understated styling, advanced safety technology, and strong residual values, the V60 represents a compelling choice in the premium estate segment.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation (2010-2018)
2010-2018
- Dual-mass flywheel failures on diesel models, particularly D3 and D4 engines
- Timing belt and water pump issues on diesel engines requiring replacement around 100,000 miles
- Electronic parking brake module failures causing warning lights and brake engagement problems
- Turbocharger actuator failures on D5 engines
- Sensus infotainment system software glitches and touchscreen freezing
- Rear suspension bushes wearing prematurely causing knocking noises
Second Generation (2018-Present)
2018-2024
- Software updates required for Sensus Connect infotainment system causing occasional freezing
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockages on diesel models used primarily for short journeys
- Battery drain issues on plug-in hybrid T6/T8 models when not driven regularly
- Front suspension top mount bearing wear causing creaking noises
- Tailgate wiring loom failures causing boot light and camera malfunctions
- Paint quality concerns with thin coating on some colours
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,800-£2,400
Insurance Group
25-35
Average Service
£350-£500
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£28,000 - £38,000
£22,000 - £30,000
£18,000 - £24,000
£8,000 - £12,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and premium interior materials
- Comprehensive safety equipment as standard including Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving
- Comfortable, refined driving experience with excellent ride quality
- Generous boot space and practical estate versatility
- Strong residual values compared to some rivals
- Efficient plug-in hybrid options with real-world electric range
Cons
- Infotainment system can be less intuitive than German rivals
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2020 - Second-generation model with refined powertrains, improved infotainment software, and all the latest safety features without early teething issues
- 2019 - First full production year of the second generation with excellent build quality and resolved early software bugs
- 2022 - Facelift model with updated mild-hybrid technology across the range and enhanced standard equipment levels
Worst Years
- 2011 - Early first-generation model prone to dual-mass flywheel issues and timing belt problems on diesel engines
- 2015 - Mid-cycle first-generation cars experiencing electronic parking brake failures and infotainment system issues without later software improvements
- 2018 - Launch year of second generation with some early software bugs and limited availability of parts
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for smooth cold starts and no excessive smoke on diesel models
- Inspect for oil leaks around timing cover and valve cover gaskets
- Listen for turbocharger whine or excessive noise under acceleration
- Verify DPF regeneration completes without issues on test drive
- Check service history shows regular oil changes at correct intervals
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The V60 was named 'Estate Car of the Year' multiple times by What Car? and Auto Express
Volvo's T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain produces over 390bhp, making it one of the fastest estates available
The V60 Polestar Engineered model featured bespoke Öhlins suspension and Akebono brakes for enhanced performance
Volvo's City Safety system in the V60 can detect pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals to prevent collisions
Alternatives to Consider
BMW 3 Series Touring
More engaging to drive with sportier handling and wider engine choice, though less comfortable
Audi A4 Avant
Superior infotainment system and more spacious rear seats with similar premium appeal
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate
More prestigious badge and slightly more refined interior, comparable practicality
Volkswagen Passat Estate
More affordable with greater boot space and lower running costs, though less premium feel
Skoda Superb Estate
Exceptional value and class-leading practicality with similar quality but lower badge prestige
Owner Tips
- 1Service diesel models at recommended intervals and use high-quality fuel to prevent DPF and injector issues
- 2Keep infotainment system software updated through Volvo dealerships to resolve bugs and improve functionality
- 3Check electronic parking brake operation regularly and have module inspected if warning lights appear
- 4For plug-in hybrid models, drive on electric power regularly to maintain battery health
- 5Inspect suspension components annually, particularly bushes and top mounts which can wear prematurely
- 6Consider extended warranty for older first-generation diesel models to cover potential flywheel and turbo issues
- 7Use Volvo-approved engine oil and change according to schedule to prevent timing system problems
- 8Allow diesel engines to complete regeneration cycles by taking longer journeys periodically
Check a specific Volvo V60
Enter a registration number to see MOT history, tax status and more