2001 Volvo S60

The S60 is Volvo's mid-size replacement for the discontinued S70, positioned between the S40 and S80 in both size and price.  With this model, Volvo has attempted to combine the sporty feel of its entry-level S40 with some of the luxury elements of the S80.  The boxy styling of the S70 has been abandoned, in favor of a sleeker looking exterior presentation.  Other notable adjustments include a wider and stance, longer wheelbase and a lower height.

The S60's sporting look is backed by two powerful turbocharged engines.  The base model houses a modest 2.4 liter inline five, which produces an adequate 168 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque.  However, buyers are given two enhancement choices. The 2.4T gets turbocharged 2.4 liter five, which pumps out 218 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, while the T5 houses a 2.3 liter turbocharged five, supplying 247 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque.

The Base S60 and the T5 engines can be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. The 2.4T is automatic only, but a manual shift feature is included.  Fuel economy with the manual transmission is estimated at 21/28 mpg with either engine.  Mixed driving averages can be expected in the low 20s with any configuration.

The sedan is well equipped with standard safety features, like front side airbags, side curtain side airbags, anti-whiplash front seat backs and ABS.  Traction control is standard on the the T5 and optional of the 2.4T.

The S60 competes in a difficult market, with formidable opponents like the Lexus ES, Acura TL and Infinity I30.  Reviewers tout the TL as the best selection in this segment, and claim that the Lexus offers a more upscale feel than the Volvo.  

The S60's top strengths include seat comfort and ergonomics.  The controls are cleverly placed, easy to understand and very functional.  The interior is well designed, but simply outclassed by the competition.  Acceleration is impeded by significant turbo lag, but test drivers note that there is adequate power availability throughout the speed range.