2015 Volvo S60 Pros vs Cons
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When it comes to cars, James Murdock has the real-world experience to back it up. With an economics degree and over 20 years running the family dealership, he's managed it all - from sales to service and marketing. His role is to provide his expert opinion on vehicle performance and value. He meticulously fact checks all features and data with vehicle manufacturers to ensure the upmost accuracy.
The Volvo S60 is currently one of the most underrated sedans on the market. Not only does the 2015 Volvo S60 boast a powerful engine, but it also handles the road remarkably well. As expected, the sedan also received a five-star safety rating from the government. While a traction control system comes standard, the all-wheel-drive system further enhances the car’s grip on the road. The S60’s great fuel efficiency pushes it to the forefront of its class.
What's new for 2015?
From a styling standpoint, the 2015 model is practically identical to last year’s model. However, Volvo does offer two new engines.
Volvo has a tradition of producing extremely safe vehicles. In fact, the 2015 Volvo S60 was chosen as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. All trims come standard with a feature called “City Safety”, which helps to prevent low-speed collisions. Some of the advanced safety features include a lane-keeping assist system, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system.
2) Potent engines
The 2015 Volvo S60 offers four engine choices. With a total output of 240 horsepower, even the base engine proves to be a muscular performer. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line engine provides a potent 325 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Although a manual gearbox is not offered, the automatic transmission can be obtained with a manual-shift mode.
3) Very Good Gas Mileage
Future owners can expect their S60 to deliver great gas mileage. The base engine is able to return an impressive 37 mpg on the highway. The S60’s efficiency makes it a very capable daily-driver. Fortunately, the sedan’s performance is not compromised.
4) Optional All-Wheel Drive
Some drivers may need the extra traction provided by the AWD system. The AWD system allows the S60 to be driven in a wide variety of different weather conditions. In the event that one of the wheels begins to lose traction, the on-board computer will automatically make the necessary adjustments.
5) Crisp Handling
The 2015 Volvo S60 is a very composed driving machine. The sedan’s nimble chassis helps it to handle curvy back roads with ease. Equipped with a performance-tuned suspension and an upgraded set of brakes, the R-Design model is a true sports sedan. A sophisticated steering system gives the driver complete control.
6) Exciting to Drive
Unlike a typical family sedan, the Volvo S60 is a very exciting performer on the road. Even the base model is destined to intrigue the driver. Fitted with a high-performance engine, the R-Design model can sprint to 60 mph in about 5.4 seconds.
7) Innovative Features
Prospective buyers are offered numerous creatures comforts. Even the base model has WiFi capability. Some of the other standard goodies include LED running lights, a seven-inch display screen, and a Pedestrian Detection system. The S60 also offers active headlights and a 650-watt audio system. Allergy sufferers will love the in-cabin filtration system.
8) Upscale Design
Once known for their extremely boxy shape, Volvo vehicles are no longer plagued by a boring design. The S60’s coupe-like styling is destined to garner plenty of compliments. The performance-focused R-Design model is definitely among the best-looking sport sedans on the market.
9) The Base Model is a Bargain
With a starting price of about $34,000, the base model proves to be an outstanding bargain. Due to the fact that the sedan is packed with numerous standard features, many buyers will not feel the need to install any upgraded options.
10) Good Resale Value
The 2015 Volvo S60 is expected to have a very good resale value. Even after five years of ownership, the sedan should still be in great condition.
Unfortunately, the S60 is not available with a manual gearbox. This may be a disappointment for the drivers who prefer using a traditional clutch. However, the automatic transmission does not seem to hinder the car’s performance.
2) R-Design Model Delivers Questionable Gas Mileage
While most of the trims return great fuel efficiently, the R-Design model is not the most frugal daily-driver. The high-performance model is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the freeway.
3) Average-Sized Backseat
Although the S60’s backseat is not tiny, some of its rivals provide more room for the rear passengers. Cargo space is average.
How it stacks up to the competition:
In terms of cost, the base Volvo S60 is more affordable than the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. However, the S60’s proven reliability gives it a clear-cut advantage over its rivals. While the Audi A4 is a quick sedan, the S60 can still hold its own.
Conclusion:
The 2015 Volvo S60 is a great value that deserves some consideration. Even the base model is surprisingly fun to drive. The sedan’s superb safety profile will give families an extra degree of protection. Prospective buyers can also choose to install several high-tech options.
What's new for 2015?
From a styling standpoint, the 2015 model is practically identical to last year’s model. However, Volvo does offer two new engines.
Reasons You May Want to Consider a 2015 Volvo S60 - The Pros
1) Safe VehicleVolvo has a tradition of producing extremely safe vehicles. In fact, the 2015 Volvo S60 was chosen as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. All trims come standard with a feature called “City Safety”, which helps to prevent low-speed collisions. Some of the advanced safety features include a lane-keeping assist system, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system.
2) Potent engines
The 2015 Volvo S60 offers four engine choices. With a total output of 240 horsepower, even the base engine proves to be a muscular performer. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line engine provides a potent 325 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Although a manual gearbox is not offered, the automatic transmission can be obtained with a manual-shift mode.
3) Very Good Gas Mileage
Future owners can expect their S60 to deliver great gas mileage. The base engine is able to return an impressive 37 mpg on the highway. The S60’s efficiency makes it a very capable daily-driver. Fortunately, the sedan’s performance is not compromised.
4) Optional All-Wheel Drive
Some drivers may need the extra traction provided by the AWD system. The AWD system allows the S60 to be driven in a wide variety of different weather conditions. In the event that one of the wheels begins to lose traction, the on-board computer will automatically make the necessary adjustments.
5) Crisp Handling
The 2015 Volvo S60 is a very composed driving machine. The sedan’s nimble chassis helps it to handle curvy back roads with ease. Equipped with a performance-tuned suspension and an upgraded set of brakes, the R-Design model is a true sports sedan. A sophisticated steering system gives the driver complete control.
6) Exciting to Drive
Unlike a typical family sedan, the Volvo S60 is a very exciting performer on the road. Even the base model is destined to intrigue the driver. Fitted with a high-performance engine, the R-Design model can sprint to 60 mph in about 5.4 seconds.
7) Innovative Features
Prospective buyers are offered numerous creatures comforts. Even the base model has WiFi capability. Some of the other standard goodies include LED running lights, a seven-inch display screen, and a Pedestrian Detection system. The S60 also offers active headlights and a 650-watt audio system. Allergy sufferers will love the in-cabin filtration system.
8) Upscale Design
Once known for their extremely boxy shape, Volvo vehicles are no longer plagued by a boring design. The S60’s coupe-like styling is destined to garner plenty of compliments. The performance-focused R-Design model is definitely among the best-looking sport sedans on the market.
9) The Base Model is a Bargain
With a starting price of about $34,000, the base model proves to be an outstanding bargain. Due to the fact that the sedan is packed with numerous standard features, many buyers will not feel the need to install any upgraded options.
10) Good Resale Value
The 2015 Volvo S60 is expected to have a very good resale value. Even after five years of ownership, the sedan should still be in great condition.
Reasons you may not want to buy a 2015 Volvo S60 - The Cons
1) No Manual TransmissionUnfortunately, the S60 is not available with a manual gearbox. This may be a disappointment for the drivers who prefer using a traditional clutch. However, the automatic transmission does not seem to hinder the car’s performance.
2) R-Design Model Delivers Questionable Gas Mileage
While most of the trims return great fuel efficiently, the R-Design model is not the most frugal daily-driver. The high-performance model is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the freeway.
3) Average-Sized Backseat
Although the S60’s backseat is not tiny, some of its rivals provide more room for the rear passengers. Cargo space is average.
How it stacks up to the competition:
In terms of cost, the base Volvo S60 is more affordable than the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. However, the S60’s proven reliability gives it a clear-cut advantage over its rivals. While the Audi A4 is a quick sedan, the S60 can still hold its own.
Conclusion:
The 2015 Volvo S60 is a great value that deserves some consideration. Even the base model is surprisingly fun to drive. The sedan’s superb safety profile will give families an extra degree of protection. Prospective buyers can also choose to install several high-tech options.
