2019 Volvo S60: Complete Review And Trim Guide

The 2019 Volvo S60 marks a bold redesign for Volvo’s compact executive sedan, prioritizing comfort, advanced safety, and modern technology while delivering engaging performance. Built in the U.S., it competes directly with established rivals by offering a unique Scandinavian blend of refinement and capability.

Design and Dimensions: Bigger and Bolder

Volvo expanded the S60’s footprint for 2019, stretching it 4.9 inches longer overall and adding 3.8 inches to the wheelbase. This growth translates to a more spacious cabin and a class-leading 15.6 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing many competitors.

The exterior boasts sharp, aggressive lines with Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights, giving it a premium, athletic stance. Available in trims like Momentum, Inscription, and R-Design, it appeals to buyers seeking style without ostentation. The R-Design variant adds sportier aesthetics with unique bumpers and 19-inch wheels.

Powertrain Options: Power Meets Efficiency

Engine choices cater to diverse needs. The base T5 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 250 horsepower, paired with front-wheel drive. The T6 steps up with both turbo and supercharging for 316 hp and standard all-wheel drive, delivering 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds.

Hybrid enthusiasts get the T8 plug-in with up to 21 miles of electric range and combined output exceeding 400 hp in Polestar Engineered guise, hitting 0-60 in 4.3 seconds. Fuel economy shines at up to 32 mpg highway for T6 models.

All pair with an eight-speed automatic, offering smooth shifts and selectable modes like Dynamic for sharper responses.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort with Poise

Despite its sport sedan positioning, the S60 emphasizes serene cruising. Double-wishbone front and integral-link rear suspension absorb bumps effortlessly while minimizing body roll on twists. Reviewers praise its quiet cabin, natural steering feel, and confident highway manners.

The T6 R-Design impresses with strong acceleration, precise AWD traction, and composed handling. Polestar upgrades include Öhlins dampers and Brembo brakes for sharper responses, though early brake feel needed refinement.

• Exceptional ride comfort on urban and highway roads.
• Direct steering without numbness.
• Low noise intrusion for relaxed long trips.
• Dynamic mode enhances throttle and shift speed.

Interior Quality: Scandinavian Simplicity

Volvo’s minimalist cabin uses premium materials, with a 9-inch portrait touchscreen dominating the dash. Physical knobs for climate add usability, and the layout feels uncluttered yet functional. Seats are supportive and comfortable for long hauls, with excellent visibility aided by standard reversing cameras.

Rear space accommodates tall adults comfortably, a step up from predecessors. Storage is adequate, though not generous, and child seat installs are straightforward.

Infotainment supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard, with sharp graphics. Optional Bowers & Wilkins audio delivers concert-hall sound. Drawbacks include occasional screen lag.

Safety Innovations: Volvo’s Hallmark

Safety remains paramount, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping aid, and oncoming collision avoidance. Optional Pilot Assist provides semi-autonomous steering and adaptive cruise, excelling on marked highways by maintaining lane position and following distance flawlessly.

Outstanding visibility and a 360-degree camera enhance confidence. The S60 earns top crash scores, upholding Volvo’s reputation.

Technology and Features Breakdown

• Infotainment: 9-inch Sensus touchscreen, wireless charging option.
• Driver Aids: Pilot Assist ($2,500 package), blind-spot monitoring.
• Comfort: Panoramic sunroof, heated/ventilated seats.
• Audio: Up to 1,400W Bowers & Wilkins system.

Trims and Pricing Insights

Starting around $40,000, the Momentum trim offers great value with leather and a 12.3-inch digital cluster. Inscription adds luxury touches, while R-Design focuses on sportiness. Top Polestar models exceed $70,000 but justify with performance.

Reliability and Ownership

A 4-year/50,000-mile warranty covers basics, with RepairPal rating it 3.5/5 for reliability. Five recalls noted, but long-term tests highlight durability and low maintenance. Resale holds well in the luxury segment.

Competitor Comparison

Versus BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class, the S60 stands out for comfort and safety over raw sportiness. It trails in driver engagement but leads in refinement and value.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Supportive seats, quiet ride, Pilot Assist, premium audio, spacious trunk.
• Cons: Infotainment lag, optional advanced tech, less playful than rivals.

Who Should Buy the 2019 Volvo S60?

Ideal for families or executives valuing safety, comfort, and understated luxury. Performance fans may prefer Polestar, while efficiency seekers opt for T8. It’s a smart alternative to German sedans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2019 Volvo S60 reliable?

Yes, with a 3.5/5 RepairPal score and solid long-term reports, backed by a strong warranty.

How does Pilot Assist work?

It combines adaptive cruise and lane centering for hands-free highway driving in supported conditions.

What’s the fuel economy like?

T6 AWD achieves 21/32 mpg city/highway; T8 offers EV range for better efficiency.

Is the interior spacious?

Yes, expanded dimensions provide ample rear legroom and 15.6 cu ft trunk.

Any performance standouts?

Polestar Engineered model with 415 hp and 4.3-second 0-60.