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2008 Volvo S60 Full Review
Date Published: 6/12/08
Also in the 2008 Volvo S60 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo S60 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Volvo S60 Review
The 2008 Volvo S60 gets a pared down model roster. S60s use turbocharged 5-cylinder engines and offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Trim levels include 2.5T, 2.5T AWD, and sporty T5. The high-performance R model and manual transmission have been discontinued. The 2.5T and 2.5T AWD have 208 hp, and the T5 has 257. A 5-speed automatic is the only transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Previously optional equipment on the T5, including leather upholstery and a sunroof, is now standard on that model.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
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2008 Volvo S60 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Available AWD | Navigation-system controls |
| Acceleration (T5, S60 R) | |
| Front-seat comfort | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
We have only tested the AWD S60 2.5T. It doesn't spring off the line, but it picks up speed impressively enough. It suffers from some turbo lag at low rpm. AWD provides outstanding acceleration grip on slippery surfaces.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 |
We have only tested the AWD S60 2.5T. It doesn't spring off the line, but it picks up speed impressively enough. It suffers from some turbo lag at low rpm. AWD provides outstanding acceleration grip on slippery surfaces.
Fuel Economy
No opportunity to measure. S60 uses regular-grade gas.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 5 | 4.6 |
No opportunity to measure. S60 uses regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality
These premium midsize sedans have a satisfyingly solid structure, but the suspension allows minor road imperfections to be felt more than in most class rivals.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.3 |
These premium midsize sedans have a satisfyingly solid structure, but the suspension allows minor road imperfections to be felt more than in most class rivals.
Steering/Handling/Braking
The extra grip afforded by the 2.5T AWD is welcome in snow, though those models have a large turning radius. Brakes feel strong, though some of our testers find the pedal action touchy in around-town driving.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 7 | 7.1 |
The extra grip afforded by the 2.5T AWD is welcome in snow, though those models have a large turning radius. Brakes feel strong, though some of our testers find the pedal action touchy in around-town driving.
Quietness
These 5-cylinder engines are never as smooth as rivals' V6s. Wind noise and tire slap are also high for the class. The optional 18-inch tires rumble on mildly coarse surfaces.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 5 | 7 |
These 5-cylinder engines are never as smooth as rivals' V6s. Wind noise and tire slap are also high for the class. The optional 18-inch tires rumble on mildly coarse surfaces.
Controls
Volvo's fancy "chronograph-style" gauges are indistinct in dim light. The navigation system is governed by steering wheel buttons that are inaccessible to the front passenger. Its dashtop screen is hard to read in daylight. In its favor, the navigation system doesn't absorb audio or climate functions.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 6 | 6.1 |
Volvo's fancy "chronograph-style" gauges are indistinct in dim light. The navigation system is governed by steering wheel buttons that are inaccessible to the front passenger. Its dashtop screen is hard to read in daylight. In its favor, the navigation system doesn't absorb audio or climate functions.
Details
The interior design is contemporary. Some budget-grade plastic panels are inappropriate for this price level, however.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 6 | 7.4 |
The interior design is contemporary. Some budget-grade plastic panels are inappropriate for this price level, however.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Comfortable, supportive seats are wider and softer than the European norm. Headroom and legroom are outstanding. Visibility is restricted aft by a high parcel shelf, bulky headrests, and sloped roofline. The headrests can power fold out of the way, however.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 7 | 7.3 |
Comfortable, supportive seats are wider and softer than the European norm. Headroom and legroom are outstanding. Visibility is restricted aft by a high parcel shelf, bulky headrests, and sloped roofline. The headrests can power fold out of the way, however.
Room/Comfort (rear)
The nicely shaped bench seat is comfortable for two medium-sized adults, but legroom is very tight if the front seats are set far back.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.2 |
The nicely shaped bench seat is comfortable for two medium-sized adults, but legroom is very tight if the front seats are set far back.
Cargo Room
The trunk is wide and deep but not very tall. The opening is also on the small side, making loading of bulky items difficult. Cabin storage is only so-so.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 3 | 4.2 |
The trunk is wide and deep but not very tall. The opening is also on the small side, making loading of bulky items difficult. Cabin storage is only so-so.
Value within Class
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 Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35 for driving satisfaction.
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 5 | 6.2 |
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 Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35 for driving satisfaction.
Total Score
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
| 62 | 68.4 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 56 | |
| Average Score | 68 | |
| High Score | 78 |
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2008 Volvo S60 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/11/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| 2.5T 4-door sedan | $30,975 | $29,117 | $745 |
|
|
|||
| AWD 2.5T 4-door sedan | $32,825 | $30,856 | $745 |
|
|
|||
| T5 4-door sedan | $33,985 | $31,946 | $745 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
2.5T
Powertrain
2.5-liter turbocharged 208-horsepower 5-cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, front-seat active head restraints, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), fold-flat passenger seat, center console, split folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through, wood interior trim, power-folding rear headrests, heated power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, 205/55R16 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
T5 adds to 2.5T:
Powertrain
2.4-liter turbocharged 257-horsepower 5-cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, aluminum interior trim, power sunroof, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
235/45R17 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
2.5T
|
$4,195
|
$3,608
|
|
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, leather upholstery, power sunroof, power passenger seat, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass,
additional wood interior trim, additional radio speakers.
|
||
|
Advanced Pkg.
|
||
|
T5
|
$3,970
|
$3,416
|
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system, 2-tone leather upholstery, upgraded interior air filter, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, upgraded sound system, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights w/washers, grocery bag holder, sunglass holder.
|
||
|
Climate Pkg.
|
||
|
2.5T, T5
|
$1,025
|
$882
|
|
T5 w/Advanced Pkg.
|
$762
|
$655
|
|
Heated front seats, headlight washers, rain-sensing wipers.
|
||
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Navigation system
|
||
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2.5T, T5
|
$2,120
|
$1,823
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Special paint
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||
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2.5T, T5
|
$475
|
$409
|
|
235/40ZR18 tires
|
||
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T5
|
$750
|
$645
|
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Chrome alloy wheels
|
||
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T5
|
$995
|
$856
|
|
|
||
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Volvo S60 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Volvo S60 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 181.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3501 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.9 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 33.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | Turbocharged dohc I5 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.5 /154 | 2.4 /146 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 208 @ 5000 | 257 @ 5500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 236 @ 1500 | 258 @ 2100 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 5-speed automatic | 19/27 | 18/26 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Volvo S60 4-door sedan |
| 4WD Rollover | 5 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 5 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | --/7500 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Sweden
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Volvo S60 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo S60 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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