Used Volvo S60 2018-2023 review
What's the used Volvo S60 saloon like?
After years of producing good, solid and notably safe cars, Volvo decided a few years back to start injecting some much-needed style into its cars. Now, far from being known for its slab-sided and rather dreary estates, the Swedish firm is an exemplar of the cool Scandi-style school of thought.
This 2018-2023 Volvo S60 executive saloon added a much-needed dash of extra style and panache to its normally staid class, and it stands out even among such highbrow rivals as the Audi A4, the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes C-Class.
Only one trim is offered on post-2020 cars: R-Design Edition. This is seriously well equipped, with 19in alloys, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a driver head-up display, climate control, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights.
The plug-in hybrid Polestar Engineered T8 versions have 19in alloys, a heated steering wheel, an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system and a set of expensive Ohlins adjustable dampers and a bespoke suspension tune.
With many illustrious rivals in the mix, the S60 needs to be decent to drive. Fortunately, it is. The most disappointing thing about the S60 is its uncomfortable ride. That’s partly because the only version on sale at present has relatively stiff sports suspension fitted as standard. It’s a setup that delivers a decidedly firm ride no matter what speed you’re doing, although things are worst around town. More comfortable executive saloons include the Audi A4 and Jaguar XE.
The S60’s lumpy ride would be easier to accept were it as fun to drive as its rivals, such as the 3 Series and Giulia. However, it actually leans more through tight twists and turns, and is generally less willing to change direction in the first place.
Not to be outdone by the competition, you can personalise your driving experience with the various driving modes available. You can make the steering lighter or heavier, alter the brake pedal feel and also make the accelerator response sharper.
Where the S60 differs most from its predecessor is inside, where there’s far more room for both people and luggage. The driver and front passenger have very comfortable seats with plenty of leg, head and shoulder room. The raised centre console and well-padded door-mounted armrests are great for long journeys, too.
