Volvo S60 review: Sweden’s answer to the BMW 3 Series

The new Volvo S60 is stylish and loaded with safety equipment but can it match its German rivals for pure driving pleasure? We find out.

Volvo has always had a reputation for producing safe, luxurious and practical machines that can be a tad bland to drive. But recent additions have worked hard at changing those long established stereotypes. Can the new S60 continue the trend and take the fight to its German rivals? We find out.

Value

Undercutting the rival Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series with a starting price of $54,990 plus on-roads, Volvo’s S60 stacks up well when you consider standard kit such as all-wheel drive, advanced driver aids, smart keys, leather trim, LED headlights and nine-inch vertical touchscreen with satnav and smartphone connectivity. On our entry-level T5 Momentum test example, the $3000 technology pack included head-up display, 360-degree camera, headlights that turn with the steering and ambient lighting. Warranty is three years and servicing is $1595 for three years or 45,000km.

Volvo says the S60 will help motorists “rediscover the thrill of driving”.

Comfort

The cabin is attractive, with clean lines and quality materials. Volvo seats are among the best in the business and the S60 is impressively quiet on the road. The iPad-style central screen can be tricky to use, so ask your dealer for lessons to master its cruise control and assistance modes.

Safety

Volvo’s Pilot Assist, an advanced active cruise control mode, can steer the car in some circumstances. It’s a godsend on congested urban commutes but needs close supervision on the highway. Other safety features include autonomous emergency braking, speed sign recognition and front and rear parking sensors. It has six airbags and earns five stars from the ANCAP crash test, with particularly impressive scores for adult occupant protection.

The cabin is a highlight with clean lines and a real luxury feel.

Driving

The S60’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo turns an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The base car’s peak outputs are 187kW/350Nm. The top-spec T8 R-Design (pictured) adds a supercharger and hybrid power — petrol punch of 246kW/430Nm is augmented by electric thrust of 65kW/240Nm. The S60 brochure hypes an opportunity to “rediscover the thrill of driving”. We would argue that it’s one of the less thrilling cars in its class. There’s no doubt the S60 is safe, sure-footed and predictable to drive. But thrilling? The S60 delivers a fuss-free experience with adequate grunt, slightly aloof steering and ride that’s firmer than most. Rear-drive rivals such as the 3 Series and Alfa Romeo Giulia are much more engaging on the road.

The S60 is well presented with stylish looks and is packed with value.

Alternatives

BMW 330i, from about $77,000 drive-away

The new 3 Series is the dynamic benchmark for the class, particularly in mid-strength 330i form. It’s the baby M3 that enthusiasts crave but you pay for the privilege.

Mercedes-Benz C200, from about $70,500 drive-away

The C-Class is the most popular model in this class and a default choice for many buyers. Polished and well-appointed, it’s a safe bet, if somewhat dated today.

Alfa Romeo Giulia, from $56,900 drive-away

As with the Volvo, the Giulia is a left-field option for buyers who want to stand out from the crowd. Better to drive (and more attractive to our eyes), it lacks the Volvo’s quality and safety tech.

Verdict 4/5

Well-presented, refined to drive and packed with value, the Volvo S60 deserves to woo customers away from the usual luxury rivals.

Volvo S60 Momentum vitals

Price: About $61,000 drive-away

Warranty/servicing: 3 years/100,000km, $1595 for 3 years

Safety: 5 stars, 6 airbags, AEB, active cruise control with steering assist, lane departure warning, blind spot monitor

Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo, 187kW/350Nm

Thirst: 7.3L/100km

Originally published as Volvo S60 review: Sweden’s answer to the BMW 3 Series