2007 Volvo S60 [ 2008 ]

MSRP: $30,885 - $38,985
Invoice: $29,067 - $36,681
MPG: 21 City / 30 Hwy
Get local dealer price quotes

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.2
Performance:6.3
Exterior:7.6
Interior:6.6
Safety:9.5
Reliability:5.0
Pros
  • Full complement of safety features
  • Handsome exterior and interior
Cons
  • Performance is only adequate

Volvo S60

Overall Score - 8.2 (Very Good)

The S60 provides acceptable performance and attractive exterior styling, but can't match the performance of others in its class.

Most critics agree the 2007 Volvo S60 is a good choice within the midsize luxury sedan segment for its comprehensive safety features and distinctive styling. In fact, Kelley Blue Book thinks "the S60 deserves to be near the top of every premium midsize sedan shopping list." Forbes agrees, noting you should consider the S60 "if you appreciate tasteful styling and a unique look" if "you're looking for a sporty and luxurious sedan that's fun to drive and can comfortably seat four adults" and lastly, if "you'd like to stand out from the BMW and Mercedes-Benz owners."

Nevertheless, there are those who worry the S60 is not distinctive enough in such a high-quality class. Consumer Guide explains "these Volvos are stylish and solid, but lag most other premium midsize sedans in ride quality and powertrain finesse. The all-season traction of available AWD is an asset, but doesn't help S60 match the Acura TL or Lexus ES 350 for overall value, or the Audi A4 and Cadillac CTS for driving satisfaction."  The S60, introduced in 2000 and refreshed in 2004, has three trim levels: the base 2.5T, the T5 and the sporty R. The 2.5T is available with all wheel drive.

The 2007 Volvo S60 is capable of good ride quality, and above-average handling, particularly in the all-wheel drive and S60R trims, but Edmunds agrees there are other options out there: "judged on their own, any of the Volvo S60s would be satisfying to own as they offer plenty in the way of comfort, safety and personality. However, with so many newer, more refined rivals crowding this segment, it's a good idea to check out some of the S60's competitors before you buy." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Volvo S60 a value rating of "worse than average," based on total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.

S60 Performance - 6.3 (Mediocre)

The Volvo S60 is a good performer but not as sporty as others in its class, agree most critics. According to Edmunds, S60s provide a ride "biased more toward comfort than speed." The S60R, however, is a better performer, and Forbes claims that it can "outperform some sports cars." continue

S60 Exterior - 7.6 (Good)

Reviewers are generally pleased that the days of boxy Volvos are long gone and are happy with the style of the 2007 Volvo S60, last redesigned in 2001. The Chicago Tribune says the S60 "is rock-solid evidence that you can still wrap yourself in a Volvo to feel safe and secure, but now you also can be fashionable."  continue

S60 Interior - 6.6 (Mediocre)

While most reviewers agree the interior of the 2007 Volvo S60 is attractive, others complain about comfort and usability. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman says that "the impression I got is that the S60 has been artfully engineered, but somewhere along the line, somebody skipped a dummy test or two-making sure all the great ideas work in the real world." continue

S60 Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)

Volvo has long been known for its uncompromising approach to safety, and the 2007 S60 is fitted with the full accoutrement of standard safety features Volvos are known for and has earned impressive scores in government crash tests. As the Chicago Tribune says, Volvo has prided itself on being "the choice of the safety-conscious motorist." continue

S60 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2007 Volvo S60 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Volvo's comprehensive warranty is good for a period of four years or 50,000 miles, and includes a four-year membership in Volvo's roadside-assistance program. continue

Review Last Updated: 5/5/08