New Volvo S60 ditches diesel engines
Why the new Volvo S60 will be available only with petrol and hybrid power. Plus, we take a look at the top 10 executive cars it has to beat...
The all-new Volvo S60 executive saloon, which is due to be revealed in the next few weeks, will be the first modern Volvo to not be offered with a diesel engine.
This decision reflects falling demand for diesel cars and Volvo's plans to switch to an all-electrified range. However, it's still a brave move given that the S60 is aimed primarily at the company car market, where key rivals such as the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series continue to sell best in diesel form.
The fact that the estate version of the S60, the V60, is available with diesel power, also makes the decision a surprise, although at last month's Beijing motor show Volvo said that it's aiming for fully electric cars to make up 50% of its sales by 2025.
Volvo's first fully electric car, which will take the form of a family SUV, will go on sale next year, and will be joined by four others before the end of 2021.
The new S60 will initially be offered with a range of four-cylinder petrol engines as well as with two plug-in hybrid powertrains. Meanwhile, mild-hybrid S60s with an electric motor that can assist the petrol engine but not power the car on its own, will follow next year.
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Top 10 executive cars currently on sale
10. Mercedes C-Class
The C-Class is one of the three most popular choices when it comes to executive cars, the other two being the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series – both of which feature further up this list. Choosing the C-Class gets you a superb interior, plus most engines have taax-friendly CO2 emissions, with the entry-level C 220d diesel making the most financial sense.
Our pick: C 220d SE
Read our full Mercedes C-Class review >
See how much you could save on a Mercedes C-Class >
9. Jaguar XE
Taking on the big German brands in this market is a big task, but Jaguar has made a good first impression with its junior saloon, the XE. It's a car that's a pleasure to drive, thanks to preise steering and sharp handling. And while interior quality is slightly off the pace, you get a lot of equipment for your money.
Our pick: 2.0d 180 Prestige
Read our full Jaguar XE review >
See how much you could save on a Jaguar XE >
8. Ford Mondeo
Mondeo Man has grown up and now expects more from his car than ever before. Fortunately, the Mondeo has grown up too, and now offers a comfortable driving experience and hugely spacious interio. We'd go for the mid-range 2.0-litre diesel engine, and pair it with Zetec trim which gets you everything you're likely to want, including a heated windscreen, rear electric windows and a ski hatch in the rear for carrying longer items.
Our pick: 2.0 TDCi 150 Zetec
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