2015 Volvo S60 Overview
The 2015 Volvo S60 is a stylish and refined compact luxury sedan that emphasizes a blend of Scandinavian design, advanced safety, and engaging driving dynamics. Known for its comfortable interior and robust build quality, the S60 offers a compelling alternative in a competitive segment.
Highlights
- Engine Options:
- T5 Drive-E: This turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine delivers a spirited 240 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with an efficient 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Front-wheel drive is standard.
- T6 AWD: The more powerful T6 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing a robust 325 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes exclusively with all-wheel drive and a 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, providing strong acceleration and confident traction in various conditions.
- Advanced Safety Features: Volvo is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2015 S60 is no exception.
- City Safety: This groundbreaking feature automatically applies the brakes to help prevent or mitigate low-speed collisions (below 30 mph). It uses a laser sensor to detect potential forward collisions and reacts if the driver doesn't.
- Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake: An evolution of City Safety, this system can detect pedestrians, cyclists, and even large animals. If a collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react, the system will automatically apply the brakes.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Available on select trims, ACC automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed as traffic conditions change, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
- Lane Keeping Aid: This system gently steers the car back into its lane if it detects the vehicle drifting unintentionally, further enhancing safety.
- Trim Summary:
- S60 T5 Drive-E Premier: The base model offers a well-equipped package with features like leather upholstery, a power driver's seat with memory, a sunroof, and Volvo's Sensus infotainment system with a 7-inch display.
- S60 T5 Drive-E Platinum: Builds upon the Premier trim by adding a premium Harman Kardon sound system, voice-controlled navigation, and front and rear parking sensors.
- S60 T6 AWD Platinum: The all-wheel-drive variant, this trim includes all the features of the T5 Platinum, plus the more powerful inline-six engine and AWD.
- S60 T6 AWD Polestar: For enthusiasts, the Polestar is a high-performance variant featuring a more potent version of the inline-six (350 hp), upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and unique styling elements.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Elegant Scandinavian Design: The S60 boasts a sleek and distinctive exterior with flowing lines and a sporty stance, embodying Volvo's signature design language.
- Luxurious and Comfortable Interior: The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials, comfortable and supportive seating, and a user-friendly layout. The front seats, in particular, are praised for their long-distance comfort.
- Engaging Driving Dynamics: While prioritizing comfort, the S60 also offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience, especially with the T6 engine and optional sport suspension. The chassis provides a good balance of agility and stability.
What to Expect
Owning a 2015 Volvo S60 typically involves a sophisticated and comfortable experience. The car is built with quality materials and engineered for longevity. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, will be standard. Due to its luxury and advanced technology, maintenance costs might be slightly higher than a non-luxury or mainstream sedan. However, Volvo's reputation for reliability generally means that with proper care, the S60 should be a dependable vehicle.
Insurance costs will vary based on individual factors, but as a luxury sedan with advanced safety features, it's likely to be in the mid-to-higher range compared to less expensive vehicles. It's advisable to get quotes from several insurance providers.
Potential Considerations
- Rear Seat Space: While the front seats offer ample room, the rear seating area can feel a bit more confined, especially for taller passengers, due to the S60's sloping roofline and sporty design.
- Infotainment System: While functional, the Sensus infotainment system from 2015 might feel a bit dated by today's standards, with slower response times and a less intuitive interface compared to more modern systems.
- Fuel Economy (T6 AWD): While the T5 Drive-E is quite fuel-efficient, the more powerful T6 AWD model will naturally consume more fuel.
- Ride Quality (with Sport Suspension): Models equipped with the sport suspension, while offering sharper handling, can provide a firmer ride that some might find less comfortable on rough roads.
Overall Summary
The 2015 Volvo S60 stands out as a compelling option for buyers seeking a well-built, safe, and stylish compact luxury sedan. It successfully balances a comfortable and refined interior with engaging performance, particularly in its T6 AWD guise. Its advanced safety technologies are a significant draw, and the elegant Scandinavian design ensures it remains an attractive proposition. While rear seat space and the infotainment system might be minor drawbacks for some, the overall package offers a sophisticated and enjoyable ownership experience for those who prioritize safety and a premium feel.