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The Volvo S60 is a compact luxury sedan manufactured by Swedish automaker Volvo Cars. It is recognized for its industry-leading standard safety equipment, minimalist Scandinavian interior design, sustainable premium cabin materials, and was the first Volvo model to offer no diesel powertrain options worldwide, with three production generations released since its initial launch.
Key moments
2000First generation S60 launched, based on the P2 platform, with standard front-wheel drive and high-performance S60 R AWD variant
2010Second generation S60 unveiled at Geneva Motor Show, produced at Volvo's Ghent, Belgium plant
2012S60 Polestar high-performance concept car revealed, showcasing brand performance potential
2019Third generation S60 revealed, built on SPA platform with unified global wheelbase, US production starting in South Carolina
20252026 model year S60 updated with revised trims and powertrain options for global markets
The Volvo S60 competes in the highly competitive global compact luxury sedan segment. Its main rivals include the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS. Key differentiators for the S60 include its standard suite of advanced safety features, eco-friendly interior materials, and balanced, comfortable driving dynamics. While performance-focused trims like the Polestar Engineered variant are available for driving enthusiasts, the S60 generally prioritizes ride comfort over extreme track-ready performance compared to some rivals. It has historically struggled to match the sales volumes of the top-selling German compact luxury sedans, partly due to its more niche market positioning and narrower powertrain lineup options.
Standard comprehensive safety features across all trim levels
Scandinavian minimalist design with sustainable interior materials
Balanced, comfortable driving experience rather than aggressive performance tuning
Direct competitors include BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS
Lower global sales volume compared to leading German premium compact sedans
The Volvo S60 holds meaningful brand equity in the global compact luxury sedan segment, built squarely on Volvo Cars’ core reputation for safety innovation and Scandinavian sustainable premium design. It has carved out a clear niche as an alternative to traditional performance-focused German luxury rivals, attracting buyers who prioritize comfort, environmental responsibility, and advanced driver assistance over raw track-ready performance. Its early decision to eliminate all diesel powertrain options across global markets aligned it with shifting consumer and regulatory demands for decarbonized luxury, strengthening its relevance in an industry transitioning to electrification.
While the S60 trails top segment competitors in overall annual sales volume, its consistent focus on distinct core strengths has helped it maintain a clear, recognizable brand identity that resonates with a loyal customer base. It continues to update its offerings to match evolving market expectations, integrating new electrified powertrains, improved infotainment, and the latest safety technology across its three production generations.
Brand leadership
Score: 68/100
The Volvo S60 is a segment leader in standard safety technology, offering advanced collision avoidance and driver assistance features that most competitors only provide as costly optional upgrades. It does not lead the compact luxury sedan segment in overall market share, however, with lower sales volumes than top German rivals, resulting in a moderate leadership score.
Customer interaction
Score: 72/100
Volvo Cars maintains strong customer engagement for the S60 through digital service platforms, personalized ownership programs, and active community outreach focused on sustainability. S60 owners consistently report high satisfaction with post-purchase support, and the model’s eco-focused positioning fosters strong connection with values-aligned consumer groups.
Brand momentum
Score: 75/100
The S60 has gained positive brand momentum in recent years, as growing numbers of luxury car buyers prioritize safety and sustainability over traditional performance branding. Ongoing updates to its electrified powertrain options and interior technology have kept it competitive against newer segment entrants, driving steady growth in customer interest.
Brand stability
Score: 80/100
Backed by Volvo Cars’ consistent long-term strategy, the S60 has maintained a stable core brand positioning across all three of its production generations. There have been no major scandals or dramatic shifts in its identity, supporting steady customer perception and consistent market standing.
Brand maturity
Score: 70/100
The Volvo S60 nameplate has been in continuous production for more than two decades since its 2000 debut, giving it enough time to build established brand recognition among luxury sedan buyers. It is not among the oldest nameplates in the compact luxury segment, however, resulting in a moderate maturity score.
Industry influence
Score: 78/100
The S60’s early industry-wide elimination of diesel powertrains set a precedent for decarbonization in the luxury car segment, influencing other automakers to accelerate their own transition away from fossil fuel-powered options. Its standardization of advanced safety features has also pushed competitors to expand their own standard safety offerings, shifting overall segment norms.
Global market penetration
Score: 65/100
The S60 is sold in major markets across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, with localized production facilities in Europe and the United States to support regional demand. However, it has limited penetration in many emerging markets and trails top segment rivals in overall global sales volume, resulting in a moderate globalization score.
AI can support structured brand value reasoning for the Volvo S60 by synthesizing public market data, perception trends, and segment positioning. All derived figures from this process are illustrative for conceptual framing only. For a fully audited, official brand value assessment for the Volvo S60, contact World Brand Lab directly.
The Volvo S60 is a compact executive car manufactured and marketed by Volvo Cars since 2000.Introduced as the successor to the Volvo S70, the model has been produced in three generations.
The first generation was introduced in 2000 and is based on the Volvo P2 platform.[1] Its estate counterpart is the Volvo V70.A high-performance variant, the S60 R, was introduced in 2002.[2]
The second generation was introduced in 2010; its estate counterpart is the Volvo V60.
The third generation was introduced in 2018 on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture platform.[3][4] It became the first Volvo model produced in the United States, at the company's plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina.[5][6] The United States briefly became the sole global source of the S60 sedan after production in China was temporarily halted in early 2019.[6] Production for North America and Europe ended in 2024, while production in China continued for selected markets.[7]
First generation (2000)
The S60 was built on Volvo's P2 platform,[13] which was shared with other Volvo models like the S80, V70, XC70 and finally the XC90.The design of the S60 drew styling cues from the Volvo ECC concept car and the Volvo S80.
The Volvo S60 was released in 2000 (2001 model year) being the company's new generation sports sedan. The S60 is aimed to mainly compete in Europe with the BMW 3 Series (E46), the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203) and the Alfa Romeo 156. Unlike its rivals, the Volvo S60 continued production for 9 years with multiple facelifts. When it was introduced the appearance was unlike the squared vehicles offered in previous years, and continued the new design tradition introduced by the larger S80
Second generation (2010)
The second generation S60 began production in Ghent, Belgium on May 17, 2010, with an expected annual production of 90,000 vehicles.[26] Official photos were released in November 2009, and the car was publicly unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2010.[27] It debuted as a 2011 model in North America.The second generation S60 also arrived with the 5th generation Haldex AWD system. More differences in the second generation S60 include the new large Volvo iron symbol, parallel to the grille LED day running lamps and larger spaced letters in the brand name on rear.
The engine range of the S60 and V60 comprises four petrol engines and three diesels.The engines available are the T3, T4, T5 and T6 petrol engines and D3, D5 and 1.6D DRIVe diesel engines, the latter of which has Stop Start Technology to increase the efficiency of the engine.The 2.4-litre D5 plug-in hybrid version, fitted with a five-cylinder diesel engine and a 50 kW electric motor, was scheduled for sale in Europe by November 2012.[28]
The Volvo S60 and V60 come with Volvo's City Safety system as standard, which is the same system fitted to its sister the XC60.
Third generation (2018)
The third-generation Volvo S60 entered production in 2018 for the 2019 model, going on sale in October 2018.[49] With sales of three-box sedans steadily losing ground to SUV variants (and in Volvo's case, to the V60 as well), US production ended in June 2024 and sales came to an end in North America and Europe.[7]
Production
Production began in September 2018 and ended in June 2024 in Ridgeville, South Carolina. Production continued in China for Asian markets as well as Australia, places were traditional sedans still find buyers. The third generation of the Volvo S60 is the first Volvo manufactured in the United States.[50] A 2.3 e6sqft plant built over 60,000 vehicles per year for both American and export markets. Capacity can go up to 100,000 vehicles per year if demand calls for it. The facility is Volvo's seventh, joining two European, three Chinese, and one Malaysian location. As of 2022, the plant employs nearly 1,500 people.
Trim levels
British land speed record
On 14 and 15 October 2000, the first-generation S60 T5 broke 18 British land speed records (including the highest average speed over a 24-hour period) for a Production Car class D (2000–3000cc) at 135.10 mph at the Millbrook Proving Ground, in Bedfordshire, UK.A joint project by Volvo and Prodrive and covered by Channel 4's Driven and Car magazine.
The car was standard except for safety modifications such as a roll cage, exterior cut out switch, a modified fuel tank and additional head support to allow the drivers (BTCC drivers Anthony Reid, Rickard Rydell, John Cleland and Alain Menu as well as various Car journalists and Channel 4's Mike Brewer) to rest their neck during the 2-hour gaps between pit stops. Each pitstop included a driver change, refuel and tyre changes due to the extreme stresses being placed on the front outside tyre.
The following records were broken:
50 mile standing start: 148.59 mph
100 mile standing start: 147.00 mph
200 mile standing start: 144.05 mph
Motorsport
The S60 has been raced in a range of championships across Europe, North America and Australia.
Europe
Volvo regularly entered the S60 in the Swedish Touring Car Championship, where it finished 2nd in the drivers' championship twice and won the manufacturers' title once.The S60 continued to be raced after the formation of the Scandinavian Touring Car Championship, a merger of the Swedish and Danish touring car championships.Thed Björk won three consecutive titles from 2013 to 2015, and Rikard Göransson won the championship in 2016, driving an S60 prepared by Polestar Racing.
From 2002 to 2007 there was an S60 one-make racing series as a support series to the Swedish Touring Car Championship known as the S60 Challenge Cup, using 26 factory-modified S60s.
An S60 was driven by Robert Dahlgren in the Swedish round of the 2007 World Touring Car Championship.
In 2016 the S60 made its return to the WTCC with Fredrik Ekblom and Thed Björk driving for Polestar Cyan Racing.[59]
Sales and marketing
† Combined total for S60 and V60. ‡ Includes 67 sales of the S60L long-wheelbase version.
Product placement
Volvo vehicles, including the S60, appeared in the Twilight film series as part of a marketing partnership between Volvo and the franchise.Contemporary reporting noted that the exposure increased visibility for Volvo among younger audiences.[71][72]
See also
Volvo V70, estate car bearing the same design as the first generation
In 2004 PremAir™ was introduced as a standard feature to the exterior radiator surface which converts up to 75 percent of ground level ozone in the radiator cooling air into oxygen, while the Interior Air Quality System cleans the air inside, detects for pollutants and automatically recirculates in comparison to the air outside.[14] The upholstery was available in taupe, light sand or graphite with indigo inserts and the leathers were tanned using natural plant materials.The S60 sheet metal content can be recycled, along with other metals that achieved an 85 overall percentage.[14] Dual zone climate control and heated front seats along with a three position drivers memory setting were optional, and anti-smash and grab laminated side windows were available.[14] Two 17 in, three 16 in and one 15 in aluminum alloy wheel choices were available.[14]
The S60 came standard with Volvo's own radio unit, the HU-613, the HU-803 and was later upgraded to the HU-650 and an optional extra HU-850 unit. The HU-850 unit features a 225 or 335-watt power output (depending on optional external amplifier) with three presets: 2CH, 3CH and Dolby Digital Pro Logic II Surround Sound.The Four-C chassis from the S60 R became an option on some S60s.[15]
In 2004 the T5 engine was reengineered from 2.3 to 2.4 liters, installing continuously variable valve timing and achieving an increase of 10 hp-metric, while the 2.5 liter engine was given a Ultra-low-emission vehicle (ULEV) certification, and a modified turbo in the D5 model also increased the maximum claimed power from 163 PS to 185 PS, while electronic brakeforce distribution was installed for emergency braking situations.[14] The Haldex-sourced computer controlled AWD system, which was standard equipment in the S60R, was optionally available mated to the 2.5 liter engine.[14] Three transmissions were offered, the Geartronic automatic which offered five speeds that adapts to driving style or the "Auto-Stick" offers a manual mode that offered the ability to select gears by moving the gearstick forward or back. The second automatic five speed transmission was available without the manual mode feature. A more traditional manual five speed transmission was the third selection offered.[14]
The S60 was refreshed in 2005.The exterior was updated with body-colored side moldings and bumpers with chrome linings, as well as new headlamps replacing the original with black housing, with optional HID headlights. The interior received some updates as well, with new seats, trim, and an updated center console. The S60 went through a final facelift in 2008 with full body-colored bumper and door inserts and larger emblem in the front and larger spaced out "V-O-L-V-O" letters in the rear. The interior featured a new pattern upholstery which differs from its original pattern.
First-generation models
S60 R
First introduced in 2004, Volvo's S60 R used a Haldex computer controlled all-wheel-drive system mated to a 300 PS / 400 Nm inline-5 which sends 95 percent of the torque to the front wheels under normal driving conditions and can send up to 30 percent to the rear wheels as necessary.The 2004–2005 models came with a 6-speed manual transmission, or an available 5-speed automatic which allowed only 258 lbft torque in 1st and 2nd gears.The 2006–2007 models came with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission (which was no longer torque-restricted).
Other aspects which set the R apart from standard S60s were the large Brembo front and rear four-piston brakes, 18-inch 5-spoke "Pegasus" wheels (available as an upgrade to the standard 17-inch wheels of the same design), blue faced "R" gauges, standard HID headlights, as well as the Four-C suspension system.[16]
Semi-active suspension with Four-C (a short name for "Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept") allows the user to select from three modes: Comfort, Sport, and Advanced. "Comfort" attempts to soften the car over bumps, while "Advanced" firms the suspension considerably and gives more aggressive throttle response - a setting Volvo implies is for use on the race track. This is accomplished through a drive by wire throttle, allowing the same pedal travel to result in different performance when the appropriate mode is selected,[17] electronically controlled shock absorbers that can adjust themselves 500 times a second, and a complex series of sensors throughout the body of the vehicle.Volvo collaborated with high-tech system developer Ohlins Racing AB and shock absorber manufacturer Monroe for the self-adjusting shock absorbers.[18]
The R had three themed interior color options with upholstery in soft leather supplied by Bridge of Weir,[19] and they were Nordkapp (dark blue) or Gobi (light tan).A third choice was offered as a natural leather option, Atacama (dark orange), available for an additional charge.The natural leather choice was said to have the thickness and feel of a baseball glove.[16]
The small trunk lid spoiler that was standard on the S60 R created a 20% increased downforce at the rear wheels at high speeds compared to the standard S60s. The S60 Rs have a 0.29 Drag coefficient, compared to the standard S60's 0.28, due to the larger lower front bumper spoiler to support the secondary intercooler.[16]
Another Volvo factory option for only the S60 R was a body kit which included front bumper splitters, side skirts and a rear valance, color matched to the body. The body kit was only available with certain body colors and in certain markets.[16]
The S60 R continued the tradition of "R" cars for Volvo beginning in 1995 with the introduction of the 850 T-5 R.
S60 R
First introduced in 2004, Volvo's S60 R used a Haldex computer controlled all-wheel-drive system mated to a 300 PS / 400 Nm inline-5 which sends 95 percent of the torque to the front wheels under normal driving conditions and can send up to 30 percent to the rear wheels as necessary.The 2004–2005 models came with a 6-speed manual transmission, or an available 5-speed automatic which allowed only 258 lbft torque in 1st and 2nd gears.The 2006–2007 models came with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission (which was no longer torque-restricted).
Other aspects which set the R apart from standard S60s were the large Brembo front and rear four-piston brakes, 18-inch 5-spoke "Pegasus" wheels (available as an upgrade to the standard 17-inch wheels of the same design), blue faced "R" gauges, standard HID headlights, as well as the Four-C suspension system.[16]
Semi-active suspension with Four-C (a short name for "Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept") allows the user to select from three modes: Comfort, Sport, and Advanced. "Comfort" attempts to soften the car over bumps, while "Advanced" firms the suspension considerably and gives more aggressive throttle response - a setting Volvo implies is for use on the race track. This is accomplished through a drive by wire throttle, allowing the same pedal travel to result in different performance when the appropriate mode is selected,[17]
Engines
This system stops the car in the event of impending collision in 'City Traffic' below 19 mi/h.
Also, a new safety feature named "Pedestrian Detection" (available on both the V60 and S60) detects people in front of the car and automatically applies the brakes if the driver does not react in time.
The new sedan shows off Volvo's completely new design language already seen in the Volvo XC60 concept.
It rides on the same platform as the XC60.
The goal of this new design was to target younger demographics.
2013 T5 engine update
In 2013, the T5 engine was revamped before the launch of the Drive-E arrival. Among the tweaks to the T5 power plant is a boost in engine compression to 9.5:1 from 9.0, engine torque peaks at 4200 rpm and engine management changes provide faster gear changes and upshifts when the 6-speed automatic gearbox is in the sport mode. Output remains the same over 2012 at 250 bhp and 266 lbft of torque, although there is a provision for overboost from the turbo which bumps the torque number to 295 lbft. The changes in compression ratio helps the S60 T5 deliver 1 mpgus extra in the city and combined cycle. Front-drive versions are rated at 21 mpgus city/30 mpgus highway for a combined of 24 mpgus, while the AWD model is 1 mpgus less across the board. Volvo also says the T5 AWD is good for a 0 - 60 mph sprint of 6.6 seconds, while the front-drive version is 0.2 seconds quicker.[29]
2014 model year update
Changes include all-new exterior panels from the A-pillars forward including a new hood, front fenders and fascia; a wider grille with a larger Ironmark is flanked by new headlights while a larger, wider lower front intake gains bright accents and horizontally mounted LEDdaytime running lights; new integrated exhaust pipes at rear, a new Adaptive Digital TFT Display instrument cluster for select models (R-Design versions include unique blue instrument dials), new paddle shifters on T6 AWD and R-Design models (optional on T5), Advanced Quick Shift (AQS) option on all T6 engines and activated when the transmission is set to sport mode or when using paddle shifters, IntelliSafe with Pedestrian Detection and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake and Cross Traffic Alert became part of the Technology Package, a new radar-based Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) to monitor and alert the driver to rapidly approaching vehicles behind the car while still informing the driver about vehicles in the blind spots on both sides of the car, Cross Traffic Alert with radar sensors at the rear end of the car to alert the driver to crossing traffic from the sides when reversing out of a parking space.
North America models went on sale as 2014 model year vehicles in late 2013. Early models include S60 T5 (base, Premier, Premier Plus, Platinum), T6 (AWD, Premier Plus, Platinum, R-Design AWD, RD Platinum).[30]
Second-generation models
S60L
The S60L, also marketed as S60 Inscription, is the top-of-the-line, long wheelbase model of the S60.It has been lengthened by 80 mm compared to the standard model to give additional legroom for rear passengers.[31] It is also manufactured in Chengdu, China, and is the first consumer automobile manufactured in China to be sold in the United States.[32] The S60L commenced production in October 2014. In late 2018, the S60L received a minor facelift that included a new grille and emblems that feature the updated Volvo logo. For the 2019 model year, the S60L was sold in China exclusively.[33]
S60L PHEV
The Volvo S60L PPHEV (Petrol Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) concept car was unveiled at the 2014 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.Volvo Cars
S60L
The S60L, also marketed as S60 Inscription, is the top-of-the-line, long wheelbase model of the S60.It has been lengthened by 80 mm compared to the standard model to give additional legroom for rear passengers.[31] It is also manufactured in Chengdu, China, and is the first consumer automobile manufactured in China to be sold in the United States.[32] The S60L commenced production in October 2014. In late 2018, the S60L received a minor facelift that included a new grille and emblems that feature the updated Volvo logo. For the 2019 model year, the S60L was sold in China exclusively.[33]
S60L PHEV
The Volvo S60L PPHEV (Petrol Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) concept car was unveiled at the 2014 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.Volvo Cars announced that the S60L PPHEV will be manufactured at the Chengdu plant and is scheduled to be launched in China in the first half of 2015.[34]
The S60L PPHEV shares the same electric-drive technology as the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid, but instead of the diesel engine of the V60, the S60L PPHEV has a 2-liter, four-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine from Volvo Cars’ new Drive-E engine family.The 50 kW electric motor is powered by an 11.2 kWhlithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of up to 50 km. The petrol-powered engine produces 177 kW and 350 N·m (258 lb-ft) of torque. The driver can select via three buttons among three driving modes: Pure, Hybrid or Power. In the default hybrid mode, the emissions are about 50 g/km, corresponding to a fuel consumption of 2.0 L/100km. By selecting Pure mode, the car runs in all-electric mode, and the Power mode combines the capabilities of the engine and motor to deliver 225 kW, 550 N·m (405 lb-ft) of torque and 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in 5.5 seconds.[35]
Volvo unveiled the production model, the S60L T6 Twin Engine PHEV, at the 2015 Shanghai Motor Show
S60 Cross Country
A new limited production model known as the S60 Cross Country saw a limited American release in the autumn of 2015 (as it was for the 2015 model year in Europe), with each dealership only getting one car. This variant is similar to the Volvo V60 Cross Country, as it is a raised sedan variant of the S60.Limited to about 500 units from 2016 to 2017.[37]
Concepts and special editions
Volvo S60 Polestar performance concept (2012)
The Volvo S60 Polestar performance concept is a version of the Volvo S60 T6 AWD with a Volvo T6 inline six (B6304T4) engine rated at 508 PS at 6500 rpm and 575 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm.It features a modified cylinder head and combustion chambers, modified inlet manifold and air intake, special manufactured connecting rods, Garrett 3171 turbocharger, Ferrita 3.5" stainless steel exhaust system, reinforced M66C (close ratio) manual 6-speed gear box, Haldex E-LSD in rear, Haldex Gen4 XWD, 265/30R19 tires, 9.5×19-inch Polestar Rims, chassis lowered by 30 mm, Öhlins 3-way shock absorbers, reinforced anti-roll bars in the front and rear, increased track width by 20 mm in the front and 40 mm (1.6 in) in the rear, Polestar-tuned EHPAS steering, stabilising X-members (front and rear), modified control-arms with uniballs in the front and rear, reinforced bushings in sub-frame and control-arms, modified engine mounts, 380 mm ventilated front brake discs with Polestar-Brembo 6 piston calipers, 302 mm ventilated discs rear brake discs with Polestar-Volvo calipers, brake cooling air intakes from front, lowered front splitter and larger rear spoiler to reduce high speed lift, carbon fibre diffuser, body 20 mm widened in the front and rear, Polestar designed seats with increased support, Alcantara on all functional areas (steering wheel, gear knob, and seats) to ensure maximum grip and a lowered centre console for optimised gear-lever ergonomics.
Volvo S60 Polestar performance concept (2012)
The Volvo S60 Polestar performance concept is a version of the Volvo S60 T6 AWD with a Volvo T6 inline six (B6304T4) engine rated at 508 PS at 6500 rpm and 575 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm.It features a modified cylinder head and combustion chambers, modified inlet manifold and air intake, special manufactured connecting rods, Garrett 3171 turbocharger, Ferrita 3.5" stainless steel exhaust system, reinforced M66C (close ratio) manual 6-speed gear box, Haldex E-LSD in rear, Haldex Gen4 XWD, 265/30R19 tires, 9.5×19-inch Polestar Rims, chassis lowered by 30 mm, Öhlins 3-way shock absorbers, reinforced anti-roll bars in the front and rear, increased track width by 20 mm in the front and 40 mm (1.6 in) in the rear, Polestar-tuned EHPAS steering, stabilising X-members (front and rear), modified control-arms with uniballs in the front and rear, reinforced bushings in sub-frame and control-arms, modified engine mounts, 380 mm ventilated front brake discs with Polestar-Brembo 6 piston calipers, 302 mm ventilated discs rear brake discs with Polestar-Volvo calipers, brake cooling air intakes from front, lowered front splitter and larger rear spoiler to reduce high speed lift, carbon fibre diffuser, body 20 mm widened in the front and rear, Polestar designed seats with increased support, Alcantara on all functional areas (steering wheel, gear knob, and seats) to ensure maximum grip and a lowered centre console for optimised gear-lever ergonomics.
The vehicle was unveiled at the Gothenburg CityArena.[38]
2013
The 2013 Volvo S60 Polestar is a limited (50 units) version of the Volvo S60 T6 AWD for the Australian market. It is based on the S60 Polestar performance concept and features an inline 6 engine rated at 258 kW and 508 Nm of torque. It includes a new BorgWarner turbo, new intercooler, a 2.5 in stainless full-flow exhaust system with 3.5 in tail pipes, Polestar Öhlins 2-way adjustable shock absorbers, upgraded springs (60N/mm front, 65N/mm rear. (80% stiffer than stock)), upgraded stabilizers in the front and rear, upgraded rear tie blades, upgraded top mount in the front and rear, upgraded toe link arms in the rear, strut brace with carbon fibre reinforcement, Michelin Pilot Super Sport 235/40R19 tires, 8x19-inch ET51 bespoke Polestar rims, Polestar-tuned AWF21 six-speed automatic gearbox with a launch control system, a Polestar-tuned Haldex 4WD system, modified transmission software for faster shifts and launch control, modified AWD software for more rear torque, front 336x29 mm ventilated brake discs with Jurid 958 performance brake pads, rear 302x22 mm ventilated brake discs with HP2000 Brembo performance brake pads, new Polestar front splitter corners, new Polestar rear spoiler, new Polestar diffuser, Polestar door trims, Polestar badging on the front grille, boot and engine cover, Polestar shift knob, Polestar limited edition plate on the door sills and steering wheel and black outside mirror covers.Delivery began in June 2013.[39]
2014
The 2014 S60 Polestar was offered in Canada, the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States. Based on the S60 Polestar Concept car and the Australian S60 Polestar, it includes a Polestar Öhlins shock absorber system, Polestar 8×20-inch ET53 bespoke rims with 245/35R20 tyres, a new twin-scroll BorgWarner turbo with new intercooler, 2.5 in stainless full-flow exhaust system with 3.5 in tail pipes, AWF21 automatic gearbox with paddle shift system, Polestar transmission calibration for faster gearshifts, launch control and curve-hold functionality; Polestar Haldex calibration for more rear torque dynamic distribution, Polestar calibrated stability control system, front 371 x ventilated and floating brake discs with Polestar/Brembo six piston brake calipers, rear 302 x ventilated brake disc.Delivery was set to begin in June 2014 to the local markets.[40]
2015
The 2015 S60 Polestar's 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder produces 350 PS and 370 lbft of torque, an additional 20 hp and 15 lbft more torque compared to the same engine in the S60 R-Design.This is developed by way of massaged engine management software, a stainless exhaust with 2.5 in pipes, new twin-scroll BorgWarner turbochargers and new intercooler. Polestar also did work to the transmission with new calibration for quicker gearshifts and launch control capabilities. The Haldex four-wheel-drive system also has Polestar tuning for more rear torque distribution, and the stability control system has been massaged.The chassis is firmer with a suspension that features Öhlins shock absorbers with 80 percent stiffer springs sitting on 20-inch wheels that would normally come wrapped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires from the factory.Brakes get a nice upgrade with 14.6 in front discs (replacing 13.2 in ones on the R-Design) with six-piston Brembo calipers and 11.8 in-inch rear discs. Visual changes include new front and rear splitters, rear spoiler and diffuser. Inside there's a thick-rimmed steering wheel and upgraded seats with suede inserts, suede door inserts and blue accent stitching throughout. According to Volvo, it has a time of 4.7 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h, up from 210 km/h.[41]
The S60 is available in Core, Plus, Ultimate, and Polestar trim levels depending on the sales market. Other than the Polestar model, T6 Momentum model and the T6 R-Design all other S60 models can be purchased or leased in the traditional way.[51] Polestar models will be offered solely through its Care by Volvo monthly subscription plan.[51]
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the S60 was offered as R-Design, R-Design Plus, Inscription, Inscription Plus and Polestar Engineered, then from 2020, Plus and Ultimate.[52]
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the S60 was offered as R-Design, R-Design Plus, Inscription, Inscription Plus and Polestar Engineered, then from 2020, Plus and Ultimate.[52]
Engines
The S60 comes with four engine options: the t4, 187hp/190hp, the T5, which features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder sending 252 hp to the front wheels (or all four wheels in some markets as an option), the T6, which features a Twincharged 2.0 I4, sending 316 hp to all 4 wheels, and the T8, a performance-oriented plug-in hybrid which combines a turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor, replacing the supercharger from the T6 at the rear, sending a combined 400 hp to all four wheels.[53] The T8 produces 472 lbft and with a 11.6-kWh battery pack, it gets a range of 22 mi on the electric model. In 2022, the T8 hybrid engine was updated by removing its supercharger, which with its electrical engine, produces max 455 hp combined and 523 lbft torque. Battery pack was also increased to 18.8-kWh battery pack which improves the range to 41 mi. In 2023, Volvo removed conventional engines as an option, meaning mild hybrids are the base engine option in the US.[54]
Safety
Standard gear on all S60s includes an improved City Safety collision avoidance system based on Volvo's Vision 2020.The system can now help the driver do an evasive maneuver and can detect and mitigate oncoming vehicles at intersections.[55] An optional Pilot Assist system is equipped into the model.[56]
The S60 was one of the IIHS's Top Safety Picks for 2020, and earned Top Safety Pick+ for 2021 and 2022.
The first generation S60 made its competitive debut in 2006, racing in the Speed World Challenge GT class.The second-generation model was introduced for the 2009 season.In 2010, its programme was expanded to include the SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge, where it won both the drivers' championship, for factory driver Randy Pobst, his fourth, and manufacturers' championships in the GT class.The programme was expanded again in 2011 to include the Pirelli World Challenge.[60]
Australia
Volvo competed in the V8 Supercars Championship with two rear wheel drive V8 B8444S powered S60s between 2014 and 2016 with Garry Rogers Motorsport highlighted by a debut 2nd place at the Adelaide 500, a last second overtake to steal a race win at the Phillip Island Circuit, and third for Scott McLaughlin in the 2016 series driver standings.[61][62]
electronically controlled shock absorbers that can adjust themselves 500 times a second, and a complex series of sensors throughout the body of the vehicle.
Volvo collaborated with high-tech system developer Ohlins Racing AB and shock absorber manufacturer Monroe for the self-adjusting shock absorbers.[18]
The R had three themed interior color options with upholstery in soft leather supplied by Bridge of Weir,[19] and they were Nordkapp (dark blue) or Gobi (light tan).A third choice was offered as a natural leather option, Atacama (dark orange), available for an additional charge.The natural leather choice was said to have the thickness and feel of a baseball glove.[16]
The small trunk lid spoiler that was standard on the S60 R created a 20% increased downforce at the rear wheels at high speeds compared to the standard S60s. The S60 Rs have a 0.29 Drag coefficient, compared to the standard S60's 0.28, due to the larger lower front bumper spoiler to support the secondary intercooler.[16]
Another Volvo factory option for only the S60 R was a body kit which included front bumper splitters, side skirts and a rear valance, color matched to the body. The body kit was only available with certain body colors and in certain markets.[16]
The S60 R continued the tradition of "R" cars for Volvo beginning in 1995 with the introduction of the 850 T-5 R.
announced that the S60L PPHEV will be manufactured at the
Chengdu
plant and is scheduled to be launched in China in the first half of 2015.
The S60L PPHEV shares the same electric-drive technology as the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid, but instead of the diesel engine of the V60, the S60L PPHEV has a 2-liter, four-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine from Volvo Cars’ new Drive-E engine family.The 50 kW electric motor is powered by an 11.2 kWhlithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of up to 50 km. The petrol-powered engine produces 177 kW and 350 N·m (258 lb-ft) of torque. The driver can select via three buttons among three driving modes: Pure, Hybrid or Power. In the default hybrid mode, the emissions are about 50 g/km, corresponding to a fuel consumption of 2.0 L/100km. By selecting Pure mode, the car runs in all-electric mode, and the Power mode combines the capabilities of the engine and motor to deliver 225 kW, 550 N·m (405 lb-ft) of torque and 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in 5.5 seconds.[35]
Volvo unveiled the production model, the S60L T6 Twin Engine PHEV, at the 2015 Shanghai Motor Show. Sales of the S60L T6 PHEV, limited to the Chinese market, began on 22 April 2015. The production model has an all-electric range of 53 km.[36]
S60 Cross Country
A new limited production model known as the S60 Cross Country saw a limited American release in the autumn of 2015 (as it was for the 2015 model year in Europe), with each dealership only getting one car. This variant is similar to the Volvo V60 Cross Country, as it is a raised sedan variant of the S60.Limited to about 500 units from 2016 to 2017.[37]
.
Sales of the S60L T6 PHEV, limited to the Chinese market, began on 22 April 2015.
The production model has an all-electric range of 53 km.[36]
The vehicle was unveiled at the Gothenburg CityArena.[38]
