2022 Volvo S60 Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

The 2022 Volvo S60 sedan is better suited for pampering its passengers than accelerating their heart rates. In a segment that's defined by cars with seriously sporty driving characteristics and gutsy engine options, Volvo takes a different approach. The S60's outward appearance is restrained but elegant and its interior is one of the nicest in its class, with a uniquely Scandinavian aesthetic. While its mellow base engine further limits the fun factor, the two plug-in hybrids’ powertrains are both quick and fuel-efficient. For maximum entertainment, the Polestar Engineered model is a 455-hp plug-in with the sportiest chassis setup. Although it's more powerful than the BMW M340i and the twin-turbocharged Genesis G70, it's not as aggressive nor as engaging to drive. The 2022 S60 also suffers from a frustrating infotainment interface, but otherwise it's a delightful entry-luxury sedan.

What's New for 2022?

For 2022, Volvo revises the S60's trim levels as well rejuggling select features. Gone are the T5 and T6 designations that once differentiated the powertrain configurations. Now, B5 is used to identify the new single gas-only powertrain; models with T8 Recharge badging continue to denote the plug-in hybrid. Models with the T8 powertrain now offer up to 41 miles of electric-only driving range. The Momentum and Recharge R-Design Expression add the grille, bumpers, and window trim to look like the R-Design model. However, they now no longer have front fog lights or rear power-operated child locks. The rest of the lineup loses the compass in the rearview mirror, but they now come standard with wireless phone charging. A new Black Edition appearance package has been added to the lineup and includes blackened exterior trim, gloss-black 19-inch wheels, and either Onyx Black or Crystal White paint. Finally, the Advance package adds an enhanced air-filtration system. Volvo has discontinued the leather-wrapped key fob and substituted the leather on steering wheels with a leather-free material.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We'd choose the sporty R-Design trim with all-wheel drive. Its standard features include front and rear parking sensors, a Harman/Kardon audio system, leather upholstery, added front-seat adjustments and bolsters, a power-operated trunk lid, unique exterior trim, and more. We'd also recommend the Climate package (heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and heated windshield washers) for anyone who lives in a cold-weather climate. And the Advanced package is worth it for the enhanced luxury provided by its 360-degree camera system, an additional 12-volt outlet in the cargo area, head-up display, and a semi-autonomous drive mode.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The non-hybrid S60 has a 247-hp turbocharged four-cylinder that pairs with front- or all-wheel drive. Power increases to 400 horsepower on the all-wheel-drive-only Recharge plug-in hybrid, and the top-of-the-line Recharge Polestar Engineered is even sportier. The latter makes 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. Along with adaptive dampers and exclusive 19-inch wheels, the Polestar edition is solely available as part of the Care by Volvo subscription plan. During our drive of one of the higher-spec S60 trim levels, we were extremely impressed with how well they handled. The steering proved to be quick and precise along twisty roads, and there was a remarkable amount of cornering grip. However, during a comparison test against four-cylinder rivals, a more basic S60 model finished last due to its more subdued driving nature versus sportier alternatives such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia and BMW 3-series.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The nonhybrid S60 is rated up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The plug-in-hybrid version has a 74 MPGe estimate and an electric-only drive range of 41 miles. Once we run one on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate their real-world mpg. For more information about the S60's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Volvo flaunts its superb build quality inside the S60, which displays upscale materials throughout and uncommon attention to detail. The design is undeniably forward-thinking and replete with flourishes such as jeweled switchgear and supremely comfortable seats. Its deluxe features include a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, massaging front seats, and more. Not only are front-seat passengers cosseted by comfortable and supportive buckets, but those in the back seat will also appreciate its generous legroom and headroom. Interior cubby space is highlighted by useful door pockets and a center console that boasts a tray with a retractable cover and a handy bin below the armrest, but all these storage spots have limited space. We also managed to fit five carry-on suitcases in the S60's trunk, which is one less than the 3-series.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every S60 features a tablet-style Sensus infotainment system that looks stylish but can be frustrating to operate. That's because some of its touch-sensitive icons are hard to select, and some functions such as the climate controls can be distracting to use. Otherwise, the system benefits from a large volume knob and a useful home button. Every model has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard; a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system is available, too.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The handsome sedan also has a variety of driver-assistance technology as standard, as well as options such as a semi-autonomous drive mode. For more information about the S60's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Volvo's limited and powertrain warranty line up exactly with its luxury rivals. While its complimentary scheduled maintenance covers the same lengthy period as BMW, both are still behind Jaguar's impressive coverage.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specs