New 2023 Volvo S60 Great Specs and Review

2023 Volvo S60 is a stylish and beloved sedan that offers a more relaxed driving experience than some of its sportier rivals. Drivers who like to get behind the wheel will prefer the BMW 3 series, Genesis G70, or Alfa Romeo Giulia over Volvo’s entry-luxury sedan. However, buyers who are more interested in a car with a spacious, well-designed interior covered in rich materials will find the S60 an attractive ride.

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Its standard turbo-four powertrain is too weak for our tastes, but the plug-in-hybrid version provides much stronger acceleration and an electric range of just 22 miles. The S60 Polestar Engineered is the sportiest model yet, featuring 455 horsepower and other performance-enhancing equipment. The 2023 S60 lineup is underpinned by high-end standard features and, of course, a plethora of driver-assist technologies—a legacy of Volvo’s long history of safety innovation.

The S60 lineup received a facelift and new infotainment software. Changes in appearance are subtle, with minor design changes to the front and rear bumpers and some new wheel designs. Inside, the S60’s large, vertically-oriented touchscreen now features a Google-based interface that features new graphics and a different menu structure than its predecessor. Unfortunately, the on-screen icons make it more challenging to operate on the move than in previous system versions.

Like the rest of the Volvo lineup, the S60 moves away from familiar trim levels names like Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription to a new configuration of Core, Plus, and Ultimate models.

2023 Volvo S60 Review

Volvo made several updates to the S60 for 2023. The Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription trims have previously been renamed and are now Core, Plus, and Ultimate. Several features have been changed between the new trim levels. Volvo also introduced the Dark, Bright, and Black Edition exterior styling packages.

The S60 also received a new Google-based infotainment system featuring Google Assistant (voice recognition assistant) and Google Maps (navigation system). Several brands offer this type of infotainment system. Volvo did a few updates to the exterior, most notably the hidden exhaust in the rear bumper, and redesigned the top console inside.

The S60 isn’t usually the first choice for most buyers looking for a small luxury sedan, but we think it’s an attractive and well-rounded alternative to the three Germans who dominate the segment: the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the Audi A4, and the BMW 3 Series. the only model in this class to offer a plug-in hybrid engine that is not only efficient but also very powerful.

Very comfortable and supportive seats
Impressive electric power and range from the available plug-in hybrid models
The optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system sounds great
Subtle changes to the interior and exterior styling
New Google-based infotainment system with USB-C replacing the USB-A port
The trim levels have been renamed Core, Plus, and Ultimate
Part of the third S60 generation introduced for 2019
Striking exterior design
Well-equipped basic model
High-quality interior materials

2023 Volvo S60 Refresh

The Volvo S60 is a unique luxury sedan with a distinctly Scandinavian character. Made in South Carolina, it is available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that improves performance and efficiency. Prices start at $41,300.

When shopping for a compact luxury sedan, it can be easy to pick one of the segment’s big names and mainstream. However, if you are looking for something different, consider the Volvo S60. It upholds the brand’s reputation for safety with the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, and its aesthetic is unlike anything else in its class.

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The roomy interior is comfortable and luxurious. For driving manners, this sedan prioritizes safety and luxury over sporty driving dynamism. The Polestar Engineered model is a blast to drive if you can afford the high price tag. The S60 competes primarily with luxury sedans such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

What New Volvo S60 2023

The S60 is Volvo’s ultra-stylish entry-level luxury sedan. It features a simple but elegant interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seats. This Swedish sedan also delivers confident handling and provides some of the most capable and sophisticated drivers aids in its class. The V60 wagon, which is based on the S60, offers more cargo space and a more distinctive look.

New grille design with updated Volvo badge
Updated rear bumper with hidden exhaust tips
Google-based infotainment system
The remote version is now standard for the Recharge models
Updated shift logic across the range
A single-pedal drive was added to the Recharge models
Two USB-C ports replace the USB-A ports on the front row
Trim levels were renamed to Core, Plus, and Ultimate
The exterior theme is now separated from the trim; style themes called Light, Dark, and Black
Fresh wheel design
Updated paint color
The S60 Recharge receives Tailored Wool Blend seats
Wireless charging is no longer available

2023 Volvo S60 Specs

The 2023 Volvo S60 is here, bringing you the dream package full of cutting-edge fun and stylish design. From a new powertrain with standard mild-hybrid technology to new trims loaded with luxury for your lifestyle, this beloved sports sedan has received extraordinary updates based on what you most want for your daily commute.

Whether the ability to continuously enhance your driving experience or a newly revamped front fascia has earned it a place in your driveway, the 2023 Volvo S60 is ready to, please. Read on to find out more, and visit Volvo Cars Midlothian to discover an equally exciting selection of Volvo S60 rental offers & incentives.

The 2023 Volvo S60 retains the same excellent powertrain introduced in the 2022 model year. If you’re unfamiliar, the previous year’s Volvo S60 was redesigned to offer standard mild hybrid technology. So, for the 2023 model, you’ll have a choice of a B5 FWD or AWD powertrain, allowing you to enjoy a performance-optimized output of 247 horsepower.

With an EPA fuel economy estimate of 26/35 MPG (city/highway) 1 and a quick 6.2-second 0-60 mph time, the 2023 Volvo S60 is the ideal blend of long-range efficiency and thrilling performance.

2023 Volvo S60 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid

MSRP: From $51,250
Horsepower: 312 hp
Dimensions: 188″ L x 75″ W x 57″ H
Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
Cargo volume: 11.6 ft³
Battery charge time: 8h at 110V, 5h at 220V

2023 Volvo S60 Facelift

Rather than redesigning the 2023 Volvo S60 by completely reworking the sedan’s body, the 2023 update focuses on refining the futuristic styling of the current Volvo S60 sedan. Why mess with perfection? The sleek roof and swooping body lines of 2022 are as modern as a sedan, and with beautiful design cues all around, Volvo Cars have focused instead on developing the intricate details that make the Volvo S60 so stunning.

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The design updates mainly involve reworked front and rear bumpers. Minor changes such as a more curved front bumper, slimmer rear fascia, and integrated exhaust design start the show off in an eye-catching way. Joining the party is a new sporty and aerodynamic wheel option, alongside new color options such as Bright Dusk, a premium champagne-inspired color.

With the new updated Volvo S60 on sale, you’ll also find restyled and more aggressive front air intakes to give it a solid road look.

2023 Volvo S60 Exterior

Stylish inside and out, the Volvo S60 challenges the norms set by the German benchmark maker in the compact luxury sedan segment. First introduced for the 2019 model year, the third-generation S60 impresses with its sharp exterior design and classy minimalist interior styling. Volvo offers its sedan in mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The S60 also serves as a starting point for the Volvo V60 station wagon.

The Volvo S60 fascinates, starting with its extraordinary exterior design. The similarities continue on the inside, where the interiors are stylish, luxurious and equipped with comfort and convenience features. After a year of driving our long-term test car, we still find the S60 interesting.

2023 Volvo S60 Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Volvo S60 has plenty of legroom up front, but its second row isn’t quite as cheap as the Audi A4. While the trunk isn’t the largest in the segment, it has more cargo space than most competitors.

Volvo flaunts its exceptional build quality in the S60, which pleases with high-end materials throughout and unconventional attention to detail. The design is undeniably forward-thinking and full of trimmings like bejeweled switchgear and insanely comfortable chairs. Luxurious features include a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, massage table front seats, and more.

Not only are the passengers in the front seats pampered with comfortable and supportive buckets, passengers in the back seats will also appreciate the spacious legroom and headroom. Interior cubby space is highlighted by handy door pockets and a center console that offers a tray with a pull-out lid and a handy trash can under the armrest but, sadly, all this storage space is limited.

Volvo outfitted the S60 with a standard 9.0-inch infotainment display running a Google-based operating system. Features include Apple CarPlay, Google Assistant voice recognition control, Google Maps navigation, and over-the-air update capabilities. Additionally, every S60 receives a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster that interacts with the infotainment system. The head-up view is available. Volvo equips 10-speaker audio as standard and offers an available 14-speaker Harman Kardon setup or an upgraded 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every S60 features a tablet-style infotainment system that operates via a Google-based interface. While we haven’t had one inside the sedan yet, we have had interactions with the luxury compact SUV version of the XC60, which has been a pleasant experience for the most part. The system’s native voice assistant works well, and we appreciated the physical home button at the bottom of the screen and the large volume button below that.

However, this system like most others lacks an adjustment knob. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected to come standard; a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system is expected to be optional.

New Technologies & More

The Volvo S60 focuses on high-tech designations such as its stylish looks, confidence-inspiring safety qualities, sporty ride, eco-friendly benefits, and opulent luxury. The 2023 Volvo S60 update continues this tradition. The long list of updated technology features starts with connected innovation; Google™’s built-in infotainment system is now a standard part of the interior of the Volvo S60 sedan.

This system has been gradually introduced into the Volvo model range and impressed us every time we used it. There’s a lot to like, from the seamless navigation commands to the intuitive integration of home devices. What’s more, this infotainment system gives the Volvo S60 over-the-air updating capabilities.

What does this mean? The 2023 Volvo S60 should continue to receive software updates via wireless connectivity, such as your smartphone.

But that’s far from all. The 2023 Volvo S60 defines luxury sedan values by offering standard benefits such as a 12-inch digital instrument panel, a ten-speaker high-performance sound system, powerful two-way lumbar support for the front seats, and a road friction indication system for increased safety.

2023 Volvo S60 Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The non-hybrid S60 has a 247-hp turbocharged four-cylinder that can be paired with either front- or all-wheel drive. Power increases to 400 horsepower in the all-wheel-drive-only plug-in hybrid Recharge, and the top-of-the-line Recharge Polestar Engineered is even sportier. The latter produces 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. Along with adaptive dampers and exclusive 19-inch wheels, the Polestar edition is only available as part of the Care by Volvo subscription package

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We were impressed by the over-the-road prowess of the models we tested in 2019, but ultimately we felt they lacked the driver-to-car-to-road connection and steering feel of the best sports sedans. And during comparison tests against four-cylinder rivals, the more basic S60 model finished last due to its quieter driving characteristics compared to sportier alternatives such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia and the BMW 3 series. No, the S60 leans more toward luxury than sports.

2023 Volvo S60 MPG and Real World Fuel Savings

The nonhybrid S60 is rated for up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The plug-in-hybrid version has an estimated 74 MPGe and an electric-only range of 41 miles. After we ran one on our fuel-efficient 75 mph route, which was part of our extensive testing regimen, we were able to evaluate their real-world mpg.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Volvo offers a range of powertrains for the S60, ranging from an entry-level turbocharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid assistance to a plug-in arrangement that pairs turbocharged and supercharged inline-fours with an electric motor.

Volvo S60 B5

Drive: FWD or AWD
Engine: 2.0 liter turbocharged I-4
Horsepower/Torque: 247 hp/258 lb-ft
Efficiency (city/highway): 26/35 mpg city/highway (FWD); 25/33mpg (AWD)
Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.4 (FWD)/6.2 (AWD) (approx. mfr)

Volvo S60 T8 EAWD

Drive: AWD
Engine: 2.0-liter turbo and supercharged I-4 + electric motor
Horsepower/Torque: 455 hp/523 lb-ft
Efficiency (city/highway): 74 mpg-e
Acceleration (0-60 mph): 4.3 seconds (approx. mfr.)

2023 Volvo S60 Trim Levels & Style Packages

The familiar trim level hierarchy has been changed for 2023. In particular, the 2023 Volvo S60 family now consists of Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims. The core model can be seen as a reinterpretation of the previous Momentum trim; The Ultimate model steps up where the Inscription and R-Design trim left off, while the Plus model is a newly formed middle-ground package.

Alongside these new trim levels, the 2023 Volvo S60 offers a choice of three themed styling packages: Dark, Bright, and Black Edition.

As the name suggests, the Dark theme enhances the exterior appearance of the 2023 Volvo S60 sedan with dark accents. Likewise with the Bright theme, which features dipping body lines with chrome accents. The Black Edition package takes the Dark Theme even further, adding exclusive black 19-inch alloy wheels and unique dark components such as the front grille and Volvo Cars badging.

Model Volvo S60 2023

The 2023 Volvo S60 is available in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels. The standard B5 engine is offered with front- or all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid Recharge T8 engine option is available in the same trim levels and in the Polestar Engineered performance trim. It comes standard with all-wheel drive.

The B5 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge T8 combines the B5 engine with a plug-in hybrid system for more power and greater fuel efficiency, especially if you charge frequently. It produces 455 hp and 523 lb-ft and has an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 41 miles on a fully charged battery.

Core

This base trim level is equipped with:

18-inch wheels
Adaptive LED headlights
Sunroof panorama
Auto-dimming exterior and mirrors
Keyless entry and ignition
Interior ambient lighting
Digital instrument panel
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated front seats (AWD only)
Simulated leather upholstery
Empat port USB-C
9-inch touchscreen display
Google Maps navigation
10-speaker audio system (11 speakers with Recharge T8)
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration

Advanced driving aids and safety features include:

Forward collision mitigation (warns if a frontal collision is imminent and brakes if you don’t respond in time)
Blind spot warning (warns you if a vehicle in the next lane is in your blind spot)
Blind spot intervention (automatically redirects the car back on track if you try to change lanes while the car is in the vehicle’s blind spot)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when the turn signal is not used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Rear-traffic warning (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle’s path while backing up)
Rear parking sensor (warns you of obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
Driver attention alert (issues a warning if sensors determine you are getting tired)

Plus

Improvements over the base model include:

Leather seats
Improved interior ambient lighting
The rear seats and headrests fold down with effort
Adaptive cruise control (maintains the driver-set distance between the S60 and the car in front)
Lane-keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help the vehicle stay centered in its lane)
360-degree camera system (gives you a top-down view of the S60 and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Front parking sensors

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Ultimate

The Ultimate Build Plus with the following additions:

19-inch wheels
Front sports seats
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Head-up display (displays important information in your line of sight on the windshield)
Four-zone automatic climate control (B5 only)
Crystal derailleur

All trim levels come standard with a Dark exterior styling theme which includes black exterior trim. The Ultimate frame can also be outfitted with a Bright exterior theme it replaces the black exterior trim with chrome trim.

The optional Black Edition exterior theme includes Dark black exterior trim and adds black 19-inch wheels, black grille badge, black badging, and black interior trim and headliner (only available in Onyx Black and Crystal White paint colors).

2023 Volvo S60 Price

Official prices for the 2023 Volvo S60 have been announced on the Volvo Cars Midlothian website as one with a slight increase over the course of 2022 to accommodate the comprehensive update. However, this model is still the champion in luxury sedan value, entering our new Volvo inventory at the following prices:

2023 Volvo S60 B5 FWD Core: Starting Price $41,300 MSRP
2023 Volvo S60 B5 FWD Plus: Starting Price $44,000 MSRP
2023 Volvo S60 B5 FWD Ultimate: Price From $46,750 MSRP

On the KBB website, we found prices for the 2023 Volvo S60 starting at $41,300 for the base model B5 FWD Core. The mid-range Plus trim starts at $44,000, and the Ultimate model starts at $46,750. AWD is a $2,300 option for the mild hybrid B5 model.

Recharge plug-in hybrid models of the S60 start at $51,250 for Core, $53,950 for Plus, and $56,700 for Ultimate. The high-performance S60 Polestar Engineered starts at $68,050.

A destination fee of $1,045 applies to all S60 models.

The S60 costs almost the same as its German rivals, namely the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4. Some of the more affordable options in this segment include the Cadillac CT4, Genesis G70, and Lexus IS.

We’ll go with the Plus trim because it includes a number of standard features not available on the Core, including adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree exterior camera, and leather upholstery. We also recommend the Climate package (heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and heated windshield washers) for anyone living in a cold weather climate.

Core $42,395
Black Edition $44,045
Plus $45,095
Ultimate $47,845
Recharge Core $52,345
Recharge Black Edition $53,995
Recharge Plus $55,045
Recharge Ultimate $57,795
Recharge Polestar Engineered $69,145

2023 Volvo S60 Safety

Volvo continues to prioritize safety as a core brand value, and the S60’s crash tests have confirmed that commitment. The IIHS named the 2022 Volvo S60 a Top Safety Pick+, and the NHTSA awarded it an overall rating of five stars with four stars for a frontal crash, five stars for a side impact crash, and five stars for a rollover test.

The S60 also includes standard equipment such as forward collision warning, front and rear automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beam and windshield wipers. Also available are adaptive cruise control and enhanced steering assistance for the semi-autonomous system that Volvo calls Pilot Assist.