2008 Volvo S60

Between the diminutive S40 and the larger S80 lies the midsize S60. This sedan replaced the S70 in 2001 and got a minor exterior update in 2007. The S60 comes in 3 trims: the 2.5T, 2.5T AWD, and T5. To balance out the cosmetic changes made last year, Volvo worked on some of the more substantive features for 2008. Simply put, the S60 gives you a lot more bells and whistles to utilize as you drive. The T5 gets standard leather seats, power sunroof, and 17-inch wheels. In addition, all three trims have Advanced Packages for drivers who want the best of everything. The 2.5T and 2.5T AWD Advanced Packages get rear parking assist and an updated audio system. The T5 Advanced Package adds a couple of cosmetic changes, including a new spoiler and Xenon headlights.

Both the 2.5T and 2.5T AWD feature a 2.5-liter, 208-hp inline five engine while the T5 provides a 2.4-liter, 257-hp inline five. All trims have a five-speed automatic transmission. Gas mileage averages out to around 18 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway. Think of the T5 as the premium trim in the lineup, with its longer list of standard features and stronger engine. All trims offer a standard CD player, ABS brakes, traction control, stability, and optional navigation system.

Overall, critics give the 2008 Volvo S60 mixed reviews. While they like its overall design and comfortable interior, they basically re-iterate the old saying that beauty is only skin deep. The S60 simply doesn't match up with the top midsize sedans when it comes to performance. Handling gets a little rougher than you'd like, and the S60 doesn't exactly stop and go on a dime. Drivers looking for a uniquely designed midsize sedan should look at the S60, as long as they don't have to drive the best of the best in this class.