Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018) Review
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Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018) At A Glance
Good to drive. Packed with safety kit including ‘City Safety’ as standard. Geartronic start/stop. New 2.0 Volvo D4 diesel from 2014 under 100g/km CO2.
Decent handling comes at the expense of ride at times. CO2 emissions were only average for this class of car until new Volvo diesel arrived in 2014. Serious issue of carbon build-up in pre-AdBlue EU6 D4 VEA engines that have not been run on high Cetane superdiesel.
If you're looking for the newer version, you need our Volvo S60 review.
The re-invented S60 is a stylish and surprisingly good to drive small executive saloon that's equipped with some particularly ingenious features. Volvo's plan is to shake off the dowdy (if worthy) image of the old S60 and make the new one much more of a match for the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the excellent Audi A4.
So it's out with the comfortable, but dynamically flawed drive and in with crisp steering, decent cornering ability, a well controlled body and some beefy brakes. The interior is a class act too, every bit as solid feeling as the Germans, but with a hefty dose of Scandinavian style.
Then there's the safety systems designed to make the S60 as crash-proof as possible. Volvo's City Safety system stops low-speed collisions before they happen and Pedestrian Detection makes hitting a pedestrian at speeds of 20mph or under virtually impossible. Without any input from the driver it senses the pedestrian and brings the car to a halt - before it hits the person in the road.
The engines are a mixture of old and new. The two diesels are what most people plump for. The 2.0-litre D3 is new to the S60 and its mixture of performance and economy will suit most buyers. The 2.4-litre D5 offers extra power and is more refined, which makes it a better bet for motorway driving.
Overall it's a well designed and good to drive car that offers something different from the three big German manufacturers. Its pricing is keen too, though CO2 emissions on some of the engines aren't quite as low as some rivals. If you like the look of the S60, but need more room, then consider the estate version, the V60.
Reviews for Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
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Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from T3 Geartronic to T6
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 21–64 mpg
Almost nine out of every ten Volvo S60s sold is a diesel, so it's no surprise that there's a wide choice of engines. The D3 - which is in fact a 2.0-litre with 163bhp - is the best all-rounder and a real surprise out on the road. This five-cylinder engine is quick (0-62mph is 9.2 seconds), punchy, and with plenty of torque on tap (400Nm at 1400-2850rpm) it's no slouch when it comes to overtaking.
So much so, that many buyers won't bother with the D5. This 205bhp five-cylinder diesel may be a little quicker, but not enough to justify the £2000+ premium. The D5's attributes become clearer on the motorway, where it's a refined cruiser that's comfortable eating up the miles - more so than the D3. If you're doing mega mileages, then it's definitely a model to should consider. It has fractionally more pulling power, with 420Nm at 1500-3250rpm.
Volvo's low emissions diesel, the DRIVe, is on sale from February 2011. Like other DRIVe models it uses a 115bhp 1.6-litre diesel and has 270Nm of torque. It promises emissions of 114g/km and 65.7mpg on the combined cycle. The petrols are the T3 (1.6-litre with 150bhp), T4 (1.6-litre with 180bhp), T5 (2.0-litre with 240bhp) and the T6 (3.0-litre with 304bhp). The two 1.6-litre engines offer decent emissions for their size, while the gargantuan 3.0-litre is the only version to be offered with all-wheel drive (AWD).
Volvo has gone to great lengths to improve the way the S60 drives. So much so that the company claims that it's more driver-orientated than any other car that they've ever built. It was even fine-tuned in the UK specifically for our roads. There's loads of grip, it turns-in crisply and the body is very well controlled. The ride is fine on smooth surfaces, but is rather firm if the road is less than perfect.
When it comes to safety, Volvo shows many of its rivals a clean pair of heels, with a series of systems designed to stop accidents happening in the first place, as well as mitigating the damage if the worst does happen. City Safety is standard on all cars. This clever little system detects upcoming obstructions in the road and applies the brakes to prevent a crash.
The Driver Support Pack adds further protections, with a Pedestrian Detection System that will stop the car at speeds of up to 20mph if it notices a person in the road. There's a blind spot warning system included in the wing mirror, a system that alerts the driver if they're straying out of a lane on the motorway and adaptive cruise control, which keeps a distance between you and the car in front when the cruise control is on. In addition to this, six airbags and stability control are standard.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6D DRIVe Start/Stop | 66 mpg | 10.9 s | 114 g/km |
| 2.0 D4 | 74 mpg | 7.4 s | 99 g/km |
| 2.0 D4 Geartronic | 67 mpg | 7.4 s | 109 g/km |
| D2 | 66–74 mpg | 10.5–12.3 s | 99–114 g/km |
| D2 Geartronic | 66–67 mpg | 10.7–11.4 s | 110–113 g/km |
| D2 Powershift | 66–72 mpg | 10.9–12.3 s | 103–114 g/km |
| D3 | 53–72 mpg | 8.4–10.2 s | 102–139 g/km |
| D3 Geartronic | 48–67 mpg | 8.4–10.2 s | 110–154 g/km |
| D4 | 66–73 mpg | 7.1–9.2 s | 102–114 g/km |
| D4 AWD Geartronic | 66 mpg | 7.1 s | 149 g/km |
| D4 Geartronic | 52–66 mpg | 7.1–9.2 s | 113–142 g/km |
| D5 | 53–63 mpg | 7.4–7.8 s | 119–139 g/km |
| D5 Geartronic | 45–48 mpg | 7.6–7.8 s | 154–166 g/km |
| T3 | 50–51 mpg | 8.1–9.4 s | 129–131 g/km |
| T3 Geartronic | 49 mpg | 8.1 s | 135 g/km |
| T3 Powershift | 40–42 mpg | 10.2 s | 159–164 g/km |
| T3 Start/Stop | 43–51 mpg | 9.4–9.5 s | 129–152 g/km |
| T4 | 44–50 mpg | 7.2–8.3 s | 131–149 g/km |
| T4 Geartronic | 49 mpg | 7.2 s | 134 g/km |
| T4 PowerShift | 40 mpg | 9.0 s | 164 g/km |
| T4 Start/Stop | 36–44 mpg | 7.3–8.3 s | 149–184 g/km |
| T4 Start/Stop PowerShift | 38–40 mpg | 9.0 s | 164–173 g/km |
| T5 | 36 mpg | 7.3 s | 184 g/km |
| T5 PowerShift | 34–35 mpg | 7.5 s | 189–193 g/km |
| T6 | 29 mpg | 6.1 s | 231 g/km |
| T6 AWD | 29 mpg | 6.1 s | 231 g/km |
| T6 AWD Geartronic | 29 mpg | 5.9 s | 231 g/km |
| T6 Geartronic | 44 mpg | 5.9 s | 149 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
76%
Real MPG
21–64 mpg
MPGs submitted
306
Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 339–380 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4628–4635 mm |
| Width | 1865–2097 mm |
| Height | 1484 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm |
So, are the seats in the new S60 as comfy and supportive as we've come to expect from Volvo? You bet they are. The Swedes have now perfected the art of designing a seat that's supportive, highly adjustable and comfortable for hours on end - no other manufacturer (with the sole possible exception of Saab) comes close. Those in the new S60 can be specified in three different materials including Mellybystrand textile, Tylosand T-Tex/textile or leather-faced upholstery. The driving position is slightly raised, which gives a good view of the road ahead, with a highly adjustable seat and steering wheel.
The S60 is a class act inside. It manages to combine the best attributes of German rivals - the feeling - with Scandinavian panache. The ‘floating console' in the centre of the dash, which has become Volvo's trademark, makes its first appearance in the S60. It's been refined too, is now angled towards the driver and far more user-friendly. The buttons and dials aren't overwhelming and are easy to use on the move, while the heating direction switches are a work of art.
All cars have a five-inch colour display for the stereo while those with sat nav have a seven-inch screen. Volvo's previous sat nav system was fiddly, hard to use on the move and often counter-intuitive, but the new one is excellent. It's easy to input destinations and the instructions are easy to follow. It looks smart, too.
The S60 is generally pretty roomy with plenty of head and legroom for four or five at a squeeze. The boot is a reasonable size, easy to access and comes with a pop-up divider, but is significantly smaller than some similar cars.
Equipment from launch (August 2010):
ES is the entry-level specification and comes with City Safety, electronic climate control (referred to as ECC), charcoal trim, information centre, cruise control, textile upholstery, floor mats, five-inch colour screen, performance sound system, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, leather steering wheel and gearknob plus 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/55 R16 W tyres.
SE adds Tysoland T-Tec/Textile upholstery, shimmer graphite aluminium Trim, leather steering wheel with deco inlays, watch dials, auto dimming rear-view mirror, grocery bag holder, auto-folding power door mirrors, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, high performance sound system, Bluetooth, Rear Park Assist and 17-inch Balder Alloy Wheels with 215/50 R17 W tyres.
SE Lux is the top spec and, surprisingly, is one of the most popular variant. It adds electric seats with memory, leather upholstery, active bending headlamps and headlamp washers.
A range of options are offered, including satellite navigation heated front and rear seats, sunroof and rear park assist.
Packs include the Driver Support Pack, which has Pedestrian Detection with adaptive cruise control, Distance Alert, Queue Assist and collision warning with full auto brake, lane departure warning system, Driver Alert Control and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).
The Exterior Styling Kit has front and rear skid plates, side scuff plates and exhaust tailpipe finishers.
Volvo S60 (2010 – 2018) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4628–4635 mm |
| Width | 1865–2097 mm |
| Height | 1484 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1471–1729 kg |
| Boot Space | 339–380 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 12500–18000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £20,675–£40,665 |
| Insurance Groups | 23–39 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–L |
| Official MPG | 28.5–74.3 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until April 2019
On sale until May 2017
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 D4 190 Cross Country Lux Nav Geartronic Start+Stop 4dr | £35,245 | 65.7 mpg | 7.1 s |
| 2.0 D4 190 Cross Country Lux Nav Start+Stop 4dr | £33,695 | 72.8 mpg | 7.1 s |
| 2.4 D4 190 Cross Country Lux Nav Geartronic Start+Stop 4 4dr | £36,725 | 65.7 mpg | 7.1 s |
On sale until April 2016
On sale until April 2015
On sale until April 2014
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| T6 R-Design Lux Geartronic 4dr Auto | £38,100 | 44.1 mpg | 5.9 s |
On sale until September 2013
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| D4 Business Edition Start/Stop 4dr | £22,645 | 65.7 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 Business Edition Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £24,130 | 58.9 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 R-Design Lux Start/Stop 4dr | £31,695 | 65.7 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 R-Design Lux Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £33,180 | 58.9 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 R-Design Start/Stop 4dr | £29,195 | 65.7 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 R-Design Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £30,680 | 58.9 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 SE Lux Start/Stop 4dr | £30,245 | 65.7 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 SE Lux Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £31,730 | 58.9 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 SE Start/Stop 4dr | £27,945 | 65.7 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 SE Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £29,430 | 58.9 mpg | 9.2 s |
| T6 AWD R-Design Geartronic 4dr Auto | £40,665 | 28.5 mpg | 5.9 s |
On sale until July 2013
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| D5 SE Start/Stop 4dr | £29,745 | 62.8 mpg | 7.4 s |
| D5 SE Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £31,230 | 47.9 mpg | 7.6 s |
| T4 R-Design Start/Stop 4dr | £29,135 | 44.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| T4 R-Design Start/Stop 4dr | £31,335 | 44.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| T4 R-Design Start/Stop Powershift 4dr Auto | £32,820 | 39.8 mpg | 9.0 s |
| T4 R-Design Start/Stop Powershift 4dr Auto | £30,620 | 39.8 mpg | 9.0 s |
| T4 SE Lux Start/Stop 4dr | £30,260 | 44.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| T4 SE Lux Start/Stop Powershift 4dr Auto | £31,745 | 39.8 mpg | 9.0 s |
| T4 SE Start/Stop 4dr | £26,960 | 44.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| T4 SE Start/Stop Powershift 4dr Auto | £28,445 | 39.8 mpg | 9.0 s |
| T5 R-Design 4dr | £30,925 | 35.8 mpg | 7.3 s |
| T5 R-Design 4dr | £33,125 | 35.8 mpg | 7.3 s |
| T5 R-Design Powershift 4dr Auto | £32,410 | 34.9 mpg | 7.5 s |
| T5 R-Design Powershift 4dr Auto | £34,610 | 34.9 mpg | 7.5 s |
| T5 SE Lux 4dr | £32,050 | 35.8 mpg | 7.3 s |
| T5 SE Lux Powershift 4dr Auto | £33,535 | 34.9 mpg | 7.5 s |
| T6 AWD R-Design Geartronic 4dr Auto | £37,665 | 28.5 mpg | 6.1 s |
On sale until September 2012
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| D2 ES Start/Stop 4dr | £23,745 | 65.7 mpg | 10.9 s |
| D2 ES Start/Stop Powershift 4dr Auto | £25,230 | 65.7 mpg | 12.3 s |
| D3 ES Start/Stop 4dr | £24,395 | 65.7 mpg | 10.2 s |
| D3 ES Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £25,880 | 52.3 mpg | 10.2 s |
| D4 ES Start/Stop 4dr | £25,395 | 65.7 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D4 ES Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £26,880 | 52.3 mpg | 9.2 s |
| T3 ES Start/Stop 4dr | £22,995 | 48.7 mpg | 9.4 s |
| T3 ES Start/Stop Powershift 4dr Auto | £24,480 | 39.8 mpg | 10.2 s |
On sale until April 2012
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| D3 ES Start/Stop 4dr | £24,745 | 57.6 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 ES Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £26,230 | 52.3 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 R-DESIGN Start/Stop 4dr | £27,400 | 57.6 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 R-DESIGN Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £28,885 | 52.3 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 SE Lux Start/Stop 4dr | £28,695 | 57.6 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 SE Lux Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £30,180 | 52.3 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 SE Start/Stop 4dr | £26,845 | 57.6 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D3 SE Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £28,330 | 52.3 mpg | 9.2 s |
| D5 ES Start/Stop 4dr | £27,395 | 60.1 mpg | 7.7 s |
| D5 ES Start/Stop Geartronic 4dr Auto | £28,880 | 47.9 mpg | 7.7 s |
| DRIVe ES Start/Stop 4dr | £23,745 | 65.7 mpg | 10.9 s |
| DRIVe R-DESIGN Start/Stop 4dr | £26,400 | 65.7 mpg | 10.9 s |
| DRIVe SE Lux Start/Stop 4dr | £27,695 | 65.7 mpg | 10.9 s |
| DRIVe SE Start/Stop 4dr | £25,845 | 65.7 mpg | 10.9 s |
| T5 SE 4dr | £28,140 | 35.8 mpg | 7.3 s |
| T5 SE Powershift 4dr Auto | £29,625 | 34.0 mpg | 7.5 s |
| T6 AWD SE Lux Geartronic 4dr Auto | £36,705 | 28.5 mpg | 6.1 s |
On sale until October 2011
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| T6 AWD SE Geartronic 4dr Auto | £34,605 | 28.5 mpg | 6.1 s |
On sale until June 2011
Model History
- January 2009: New S60 unveiled
- August 2010: Introduction of two new engines - T3 and T4
- September 2010: S60 R-Design launched
- February 2011
- April 2011: Volvo re-certified most of its diesel range
- August 2011
- December 2011: DRIVe now available with an automatic gearbox
- August 2012: Volvo adds new Business Edition variants
- February 2013
- February 2013: Significant revisions to S60
- September 2013: Volvo launched the first of its new series of DRIVe engines
- January 2014
- October 2014
- April 2015: Prices of Volvo S60 Cross Country announced
- April 2015: New four-cylinder Drive-E petrol engines introduced
- July 2015
- February 2016: Volvo
- May 2017: S60 Business Lux model launched
- August 2017: Polestar unveils Model Year 2018 S60
January 2009
New S60 unveiled
It includes a safety innovation that can detect a pedestrian who steps out into the path of the car and the car's full braking power is automatically activated if the driver does not respond to the danger. The technology, Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and pedestrian detection, will be introduced in the all-new Volvo S60.
The engine that Volvo Cars chose for the Volvo S60 Concept is a four-cylinder 1.6-litre petrol unit using high-efficiency GTDi (Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) technology and producing 180 horsepower. In a conventional petrol engine, fuel is injected into the inlet manifold ahead of the inlet valves. The engine in combination with a range of other technical measures makes it possible to cut carbon dioxide emissions to 119g/km.
August 2010
Introduction of two new engines - T3 and T4
The 1.6 GTDi T3 features 150PS while the T4 offers 180PS and both will be available in the all-new Volvo S60 and V60 in late 2010. The 180PS T4 engine delivers maximum torque of 240Nm from just 1600rpm all the way up to 5000rpm. An automatic on-demand overboost function provides a massive 270Nm of torque. The 150PS T3 version offers 240Nm of torque.
September 2010
S60 R-Design launched
Featuring a specially developed chassis, the new R-Design models ensure that the driving experience matches the car's sporting appearance.
Customers can opt for an economical, efficient 2.0-litre D3 all the way through to the high-performance T6, with all cars benefiting from the sportier looks of the R-Design variant.
On the inside, the driver and front passenger sit in sports seats in which the backrest matched by an all-new seat cushion with even closer side support than before. On the outside, the cars have an imposing redesigned front valance while a distinctive diffuser houses twin exhaust tailpipes. To finish, unique five-spoke 18-inch Diamond cut wheels emphasise the sporty overall appeal.
The front and rear springs have been shortened by 15 mm and spring stiffness is 15 per cent higher compared to the standard-fit dynamic chassis in the S60 and V60. The bushings with which the rear dampers are attached to the body are 20 per cent stiffer compared with the dynamic chassis in the S60 and V60. The front tie-blade bushing, attaching the rear sub-frame to the car, is a massive 400 per cent stiffer than before to counteract wheel bouncing and shaking.
February 2011
The new Volvo S60 and V60 DRIVe models offer sub-120 g/km emissions from 1.6 litre turbo diesel engines. Fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox and start/stop technology, the S60 and V60 DRIVe models produce just 114 g/km and 119 g/km respectively. They also achieve low fuel consumption figures of 65.7 mpg for the S60 and 62.8 mpg for the V60 (EU combined cycle).
The low CO2emissions and a starting price of £23,495 on the road for the S60 DRIVe ES are good news for company car buyers looking at their Benefit In Kind payments.
April 2011
Volvo re-certified most of its diesel range
Now under 120g/km CO2, including the 215PS D5 in the S60 and V60, for the 2013 model year, and at the same time re-named DRIVe to Drive-E.
Model/Engine D2 (115 hp) D3 (136 hp) D4 (163 hp) D5 (215 hp)
S60 114 g 114 g 114 g 119 g
The D2 engine combined with automatic Powershift gearbox comes with the same low fuel consumption and CO2levels as the manual versions in the Volvo S60, V60, V70 and S80. Now, the DRIVe symbol, which has been used to denote the lowest CO2emitting engine in each of the models, will be re-named Drive-E.
New D3 diesel engine with 136 hp. Volvo Car Corporation has extended its diesel engine offer with a new entry-level 5-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel in the Volvo S60, V60, V70 and S80 models.
August 2011
Volvo's fuel saving start/stop technology which reduces emissions of CO2 by up to 8% has, for the first time, been combined with the six-speed Geartronic transmission. Initially, it is available together with the 2.0-litre D3 turbo diesel, cutting CO2 emissions by 10g/km - translating into a decrease in fuel consumption of up to 3.6 miles per gallon.
December 2011
DRIVe now available with an automatic gearbox
Customers will be able to order a DRIVe Powershift in early 2012 with production starting mid-February. On the road prices start at £25,230 for the S60 DRIVe.
August 2012
Volvo adds new Business Edition variants
Based on the ES and ES Nav variants, these models benefit from enhanced standard specification and lower list prices.
Extra equipment in the Business Edition models includes integrated sat nav, multimedia audio system, Bluetooth and rear park assist. The S60 Business edition is priced from £19,995, with the equivalent V60 priced from £21,195 – both represent a £3000 reduction off the outgoing ES model. The V70 D2 Powershift Business Edition is £2,925 cheaper than the ES, at £24,995 on-the-road. Order books are open now.
February 2013
Effective immediately, new S60 D3 and D4 Geartronic versions will emit under 130g/km CO2.
February 2013
Significant revisions to S60
Redesigned interior and exterior of the new cars. Inside, the attention to detail, the authentic materials - such as wood and leather - and the easy-to-use controls contribute to the in-command driving experience.
New optional sport seat that retains this traditional comfort and makes a perfect addition to the in-command feel of a true driver's car. Previously visible washer nozzles have been relocated out of sight under the bonnet. Radar cover has been painted gloss black, which practically makes it disappear in the grille. Chrome frame around the grille has been removed and the new, bigger ironmark badge enhances the new cars' self-confident look.
The new S60 offers an extended wheel choice with a variety of 18-inch and 19-inch designs that increase the personalisation possibilities for customers. The XC60 is available with 20-inch wheels while keeping the same tyre profile height and ride comfort as with 19-inch wheels.
Inside, there are upgrades such as new upholstery colours, new wood inlays, a new headliner, and the silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls. And under the skin, at the heart of the dynamic driving experience, is a wide choice of chassis settings, designed around the customer's personal requirements. The S60 buyer has a choice of four chassis types - Touring, Dynamic, Four-C (Continuously
September 2013
Volvo launched the first of its new series of DRIVe engines
Two 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines.
Volvo will sever its last engine links with Ford within the next two years with a new family of efficient, light and compact four-cylinder units. The first of these new Drive-E engines will be available by the end of 2013.
For the UK there will be a D4 twin-turbo diesel developing 181PS and 400Nm of torque, and a supercharged and turbocharged T6 petrol unit with 306PS and 400Nm.
Eventually the Drive-E family will expand to eight engines, seven of which will be offered in the UK. All will be 2.0-litre direct-injection units with varying levels of turbocharging. The diesels will deliver between 130 and 239PS, and the petrol units 140 to 306PS. They have been prepared for eventual use in hybrid drive systems.
The previous range of Ford four-cylinder engines and in-house five-cylinder diesel and six-cylinder petrol units are progressively phased out. Volvo says the new engines are up to 35% more fuel efficient than those they replace, an average of 50 kilos lighter and smaller.
January 2014
Volvo Drive-E 4 cylinder powertrains:
DIESEL
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 120PS, 250Nm torque
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 150PS, 320Nm torque
1,969cc 4cylinder twin turbo: 181PS, 400Nm torque
1,969cc 4cylinder twin turbo: 230PS, 480Nm torque
PETROL
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 140PS, 250Nm torque + 30Nm overboost
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 190PS, 300Nm torque + 30Nm overboost
1,969cc 4cylinder single turbo: 245PS, 350Nm torque + 30Nm overboost
1,969cc 4cylinder supercharger + turbo: 306PS, 400Nm torque
October 2014
Volvo increases power of 2.0-litre petrol engine. Volvo delivers a combination of performance and efficiency with the High Performance Drive-E Powertrain Concept - a triple boost 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with no less than 450PS.
April 2015
Prices of Volvo S60 Cross Country announced
The S60 Cross Country is available in two engines and one specification level, the D4 FWD Cross Country Lux Nav (£33,695 OTR) and D4 AWD Geartronic Cross Country Lux Nav (£36,725 OTR).
The S60 Cross Country has an additional 65mm of ground clearance over the standard S60. Skid plates front and rear, side scuff plates and bumper extenders convey an imposing, muscular presence that underlies its capable nature, while integrated tailpipes reflect its sporty side.
April 2015
New four-cylinder Drive-E petrol engines introduced
2.0-litre T3 manual and 1.5-litre T3 auto. Two new diesel engines for D2 and D3, plus increased power for new 190hp D4. Ventilation system upgraded to Air Quality System and Rain Sensor now standard. Rebel Blue, Black Sapphire and Caspian Blue are removed and replaced with Onyx Black, Magic Blue and Osmium Grey. Two new wheel designs: 18” Skadi and 19” Portia
|
S60 diesel |
||||
|
Engine |
CO 2 g/km |
MPG |
Power |
Notes |
|
D2 |
99 |
74.3 |
120 |
New four-cylinder 2.0-litre Drive-E engine introduced |
|
D3 |
102 |
72.4 |
150 |
New four-cylinder 2.0-litre Drive-E engine introduced |
|
D4 |
102 |
72.8 |
190 |
Power increased from 181 to 190hp for MY2016 |
|
S60 petrol |
||||
|
Engine |
CO 2 g/km |
MPG |
Power |
Notes |
|
T3 manual |
131 |
50.4 |
152hp |
New 2.0-litre Drive-E petrol engine for T3 manual |
|
T3 auto |
135 |
48.7 |
152hp |
New 1.5-litre Drive-E petrol engine for T3 auto |
July 2015
The gradual transition to Volvo's new range of in house DRIVe engines is confusing. Here is the current line-up for the S60:
T3 turbo petrol manual: 1,969cc 4-cylinder, 152PS, 250Nm from 1,300-4,000rpm
T3 turbo petrol auto: 1,498cc, 152PS 4-cylinder, 250Nm from 1,700-4,000rpm
D2 turbo diesel manual and auto: 1,969cc 4-cylinder, 120PS, 280Nm from 1,500-2,250rpm
D3 turbo diesel manual and auto: 1,969cc 4-cylinder, 150PS, 320Nm from 1,750-3,000rpm
D4 turbo diesel manual and auto: 1,969cc 4-cylinder, 190PS, 400Nm from 1,750-2,500rpm
D4 AWD turbo diesel auto: 2,400cc 5-cylinder, 190PS, 420Nm from 1,500-3,000rpm
February 2016
Volvo
S60 receives significant updates for 2016 Two new wheels will be offered – a new 18” wheel for the S60/V60 and XC60, and a brand-new 20” wheel for the XC60. These will be complemented by a new generation of 18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch wheels for R-Design trim levels.
The S60 is also offered with three new exterior colours. Luminous Sand will be available on all 60 Series cars along with Mussel Blue and Bursting Blue.
May 2017
S60 Business Lux model launched
Replicating the current Lux upgrade already available on Volvo's SE, R-Design and Cross Country variants, the Business Edition Lux provides some added luxury to the S60.
The Lux package brings attractive 17-inch Rodinia alloy wheels, while the interior gets residual-value-enhancing leather upholstery along with Piano Black inlays and an active information display, which clearly presents the most important information to the driver at all times.
As well as these upgrades, the S60 Business Edition Lux also benefits from a rear parking camera. This helps make parking and low-speed manoeuvring easier and safer, particularly if a towbar is also fitted to the car.
Available to order now, the S60 Business Edition Lux is priced from £24,545 (OTR), with the V60 priced from £25,745. The D2 diesel versions of both attract a BIK tax rate of just 22%.
August 2017
Polestar unveils Model Year 2018 S60
Comes with additional aerodynamic components made from lightweight carbon fibre material. A limited number of 1500 vehicles will be produced, with all cars receiving a unique number on the tread plate.
The aerodynamic enhancements include a new front splitter, side sills and a rear spoiler extension, all made in lightweight carbon fibre, increasing the downforce by 30 per cent. The new components increase grip and high-speed stability, providing a car with the duality of being at ease in everyday driving as well as providing the driver with further control and feedback on an inspiring stretch of road or during an evasive manoeuvre for example.
Other visual changes include high-gloss black Polestar diamond cut wheels, carbon fibre door mirror casings and a new colour; Bursting Blue Metallic. The interior has been updated with a new seat upholstery, blue contrast stitching and Polestar embroidering.
What to watch out for
Volvo says, "Regarding the D2 diesel engine, the software has been improved so that particlefilter regeneration is facilitated. As for all modern diesel engines with particle filter, it is still recommended to do some driving at a bit higher loads once in a while, to ensure cleaning of the particle filter. However, our experience is that the D2 in V50 is really easy to regerarate, so it should work fine also for mostly city-driving. There is one second point concerning the D2: starting from late 2010 in V50, we do a hardware change from an additive particle filter to a catalyzed one. The additive filter type needed to be replaced or cleaned after 120,000 km, which is a costly repair. The new catalyzed solution does not require this, which is an advantage if the customer intends to keep the car for longer time."
29-12-2011:One report of total brake failure, braking from 25mph in traffic.
06-01-2012:'Clunks' reported from the drivetrain of DRIVEe 1.6 D2, probably from the dual mass flywheel coping with the high gear ratios. Better not to run too low revs in any gear.
13-02-2013:Infotainment system prone to blowing fuses, which partially disables the car. Obviously if it keeps blowing fuses there is a fundamental fault.
29-08-2014:Reader quoted £3050 to replace DPF and injectors of 44k mile 2010 Volvo S60 1.6 D2 diesel, reduced to 50 per cent. Reader's typical journey is 25 miles. DMF had failed a few months previously, but within warranty.
12-02-2016:"Widespread" problem reported in Backroom with EGRs of new VEA D4 twin turbo diesel engine in all models of V40, S60, V60, XC60. 'Craig-pd130' explains: " Volvo chose the heavy-duty EGR route to achieving Euro 6 NOx emissions compliance, rather than AdBlue. So the VEA engine has a watercooled EGR cooler with serpentine passages inside. This seems to be inadequately designed, and quickly clogs up with sooty gunk from the exhaust gas (the tap-off for recycling is before the DPF) and the traces of oil that inevitably finds its way everywhere. It makes no difference whether owners use premium or supermarket diesel, or what mix of driving owners do (high motorway miles versus urban driving) - it affects all cars, usually within 6 to 9 months and 5,000 - 10,000 miles. In the majority of cases, this problem doesn't actually affect performance or driveability, it just throws a 'Check Engine' light. Only a fraction of owners have had their cars go into limp mode as a result of the problem." We think the problem is that this engine is optimaised to run on high cetane superdiesel and the problem is caused by attempting to run it on ordinary diesel.
13-07-2019:Long diatribe about Volvo 2.0 litre D4 VEA twin-turbo diesel engine in 2014 V60 at 47,000 miles (as above): "Given the current Safety Recall notification from Volvo about Inlet Manifolds melting and potentially causing engine fire. How are they getting away with not admitting the apparently unfixable fatal design flaw in the pre AdBlue D4 engine fitted to many models? The “advanced” watercooled EGR cooler with serpentine passages inside amounts to a self-destruct system for the engine. Massive numbers of posts on Volvo Forums from 2015 indicate the scale of the issue. Initially, EGR valves failed. Then, in 2016, a “permanent fix” with a new re-piped EGR cooler initially appeared to solve the problem but did not. It keeps the EGR clearer but lets it affect everything else: The black gunge is now deposited throughout the engine system and, according to a typical dealer from cases he has dealt with, causes massive problems up to and including replacement engines costing £8k. He correctly predicted the hesitation on my 47k mile 2014 V60 was due to the valve problem and £4,000 later, including a second replacement for a blocked manifold and new inlet valves (and the claimed permanent fix to the EGR cooler) he was proved right. Volvo initially refused to pay anything, but eventually paid 95% when I took photos and also copied them their own email to me from 2016 promising a permanent fix under the Volvo warranty. I threatened legal action if they didn’t pay up, but not all owners dare authorise repairs in advance of Volvo deciding to contribute, or otherwise. It is clear that payments made after strong protest are not “goodwill”, but an attempt to keep the lid on a potential multi-million pound issue. The dealer tells me Volvo’s internal official information confirms it is obvious that fires are caused by blocked manifolds. This only occurs in D4 engines with failed EGR systems. But the notification not only doesn’t mention the known cause, it doesn’t even state it affects D4 engines only, leaving owners to think it is a random new issue and not in fact the one Volvo might be in breach of contract over by failing to fix it under warranty. It would be safer if Volvo told owners of higher mileage D4s with original manifolds to be extra careful, but that would give the game away. Little wonder the DVLC Safety Recall system has been used, but there is no fix available so no Recall yet. The Volvo website is not clear whether Volvo will address the apparent impossibility of changing the nature of the EGR system or just try to stop cars catching fire.”
