Overview

Volvo’s S60 saloon car is the smallest in the Swede’s range of four-doors behind the mechanically similar Volvo S90. It’s much like a smaller and cheaper version of its big brother and is also available as an estate, called the Volvo V60.

It’s been around since 2019 and has received a few updates in that time to keep up with its competition. Chief of which are the deliciously appointed Mercedes C-Class, fun-to-drive BMW 3 Series and well-made Audi A4.

Big differences between it and its German counterparts include integrated Google infotainment and the lack of diesel engines, the latter being part of Volvo’s quest to be electric-only by 2030. Other choices in this market include the flair filled Alfa Romeo Giulia and business-like Jaguar XE.

The S60’s sharp lines and flowing flanks fit in with the company’s design language, which may seem like a real departure if you still associate Volvos with boxy estates. Safety – a Volvo hallmark – remains a strong point, with the S60 scoring a full five-star rating from Euro NCAP.

Inside, it’s familiar territory for anyone who’s driven a V60 or XC60 SUV, with the same mix of interesting trims and materials, light and airy design, and the large, portrait-format infotainment screen. For now, the model range looks simple with just two trim levels to choose from, called Plus and Ultimate.

Engine wise is equally as simple. There’s a 2.0-litre petrol badged B5 or a plug-in hybrid with the T8 insignia pinned to the rear. All models come with all-wheel drive.

But how does the Volvo S60 stack up against the opposition? Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know, including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive and whether we recommend buying one.