2009 Volvo S60: Road Test
2009 Volvo S60 ▼
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- MSRP: $32,800 - $36,400
- Invoice: $30,832 - $34,216
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Our road test for the 2009 Volvo S60 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Volvo S60 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Volvo S60, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Volvo S60 help you decide if a 2009 Volvo S60 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.2 |
An AWD 2.5T is the only S60 made available for testing. It doesn't spring off the line, but it picks up speed impressively enough. It suffers from some turbo lag at low rpm.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.7 |
No opportunity to measure. S60 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.4 |
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
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.2 |
The extra grip afforded by the 2.5T AWD is welcome in snow and other sloppy road conditions. The drawback is these models have a large turning radius. Brakes feel strong, though some of our testers find the pedal action touchy in around-town driving.
QUIETNESS
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 7 |
S60's 5-cylinder engine is not as smooth as rivals' V6s. Wind noise and tire slap are also high for the class.
CONTROLS
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.3 |
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
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.5 |
The interior design is contemporary. Some budget-grade plastic panels are inappropriate for this price level, however.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 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)
| 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
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.9 |
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
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.5 |
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 refinement, or the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G37 for driving satisfaction.
Total Score
| AWD 2.5T | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 62 | 69.2 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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