2008 Volvo S60 [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 52 S60 reviews and test drives.
Volvo S60 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Volvo S60 ranks 15 out of 16 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 52 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo S60, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2008 Volvo S60 provides acceptable performance and attractive exterior styling, but it does not have the reputation for sporty performance like other upscale midsize cars.
The 2008 Volvo S60 is a very good sedan, and has one of the lowest MSRPs of the segment. But still the S60 is easily overlooked in a highly competitive class. Several reviews note this has to do with the car's age -- first introduced in 2000, the S60 experienced a slight refresh in 2004 but has never had an extensive redesign. Meanwhile top-ranked cars from Cadillac, Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz were redesigned or introduced for 2008.
The 2008 Volvo S60 is available in two trims, the 2.5T and the T5. The 2.5T is available with all wheel drive. Changes are minimal for the 2008 year, but the performance-oriented R trim has been dropped. If you're in the market for an upscale midsize car, consider the performance capabilities of a BMW 3 Series coupe or sedan.
- "The Volvo S60 combines excellent performance with outstanding safety features. Its interior is handsome, and the available leather has a high-quality look and feel." -- New Car Test Drive
- "An aging but still very attractive entry-luxury sedan. … The driving experience can be a bit bland, and the 'sporty' R model is dead, but the S60 still provides some value despite its lackadaisical driving experience." -- Car and Driver
- "Buy this vehicle if you appreciate tasteful styling and a unique look; you're looking for a sporty and luxurious sedan that's fun to drive and can comfortably seat four adults; you'd like to stand out from BMW and Mercedes Benz owners. Keep looking if you need space for five adults; blind spots make you antsy; you think only German luxury sedans have clout." -- Forbes
- "One of the things that kept running through my head all week was: 'This car definitely feels like it is worthy fifty thousand dollars,' something that a surprising number of competitors fall short of." -- Automobile.com
S60 Performance - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The S60 is a competent performer -- New Car Test Drive says it "rides well and handles well" -- but still it doesn't have the stamina of others in its class. In addition, the S60 receives its lowest score for performance. Continue with our full Performance Review to further read reviewer's opinions of the 2008 Volvo S60's driving dynamics. continue
S60 Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
Although the 2008 Volvo S60 has been sporting the same design since 2001 it gets good reviews for its appearance. Automobile.com's reviewer writes, "I find this car strangely sexy. Not, it's not downright voluptuous…but there is something so smart, so reserved and so hair-up-in-a-bun that just makes me think…I can't tell you exactly what it makes me think, but they're all nice thoughts." Check out the Volvo S60 Photo Gallery for front- and rear-angle images of the sedan, or continue with our full Exterior Review to read more about the S60's seductive style. continue
S60 Interior - 7.0 (Good)
Auto experts say the S60's interior is attractive but not user-friendly. This sentiment is well represented in our rankings, as the sedan receives a good score for its interior, but still trails the majority of the upscale midsize sedan class. Check out the Volvo S60 Photo Gallery to see the sedan's all-black cabin, or continue with our full Interior Review to learn how the sedan's curvy exterior impacts its cargo loading. continue
S60 Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
Volvo has long been known for its uncompromising approach to safety, and the 2008 S60 is fitted with a full compliment of standard safety features. The S60 earned impressive scores in government and insurance industry crash tests and not surprisingly receives its highest score on our list for safety. Continue with our full Safety Review for information on the S60's Whiplash Protection System, or the anti-submarine front seats. continue
S60 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 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). The Volvo S60's comprehensive warranty is good for a period of four years or 50,000 miles. Continue with our full Reliability Review for information on membership to Volvo's four-year roadside assistance program. continue
