2022 Volvo S60 Review: Quality Rules

Unlike some of its racier rivals, the Volvo S60 is targeted at discerning shoppers who value comfort and sophistication above all else. That's not to say that the midsize luxury sedan can't be a fun driver, but it won't deliver the same sort of thrills. Where it does impress is in its composed handling and hard-to-match ride quality. Very little upsets the stately sedan, and you can always upgrade to the all-wheel-drive drivetrain for added security, too. This will mean opting for the stronger T8 hybrid model (now known as the Recharge), which is far from a bad decision, since the base B5 lacks the kind of kick we expect from a vehicle at this price point. Nevertheless, all other concerns melt away once you are ensconced in the immaculate interior, with plush upholstery and a host of comfort features keeping you on cloud nine as the suspension smooths out just about any bump. Available in gas-fed or plug-in hybrid configurations, the S60 may not be the most athletic luxury motor car for sale in the USA, but it's hard to deny its appeal to those who prize quality over flashy fanfare.

What's the Price of 2022 Volvo S60?

The price of the Volvo S60 is in line with the premium level of the brand, but the base models are still relatively affordable. The B5 range starts at $39,250 with the Momentum, while the R-Design and Inscription share a price tag of $42,250. The Recharge models bear the kind of raised prices we have come to expect from hybrid vehicles. The R-Design Expression starts the bidding at $47,650, and the R-Design and Inscription again share their base price of $50,650. Since it comes with the most powerful engine and just about every feature available, the Polestar Engineered has the highest cost of any Volvo S60 at $64,800. It's worth noting that the Recharge qualifies for up to $5,419 in federal tax credit and various state-specific incentives.

These prices are MSRP and do not include tax, registration, licensing, or the $1,045 destination fee.

2022 S60 Exterior

Dimensions

2022 S60 Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

Volvo has always prioritized comfort and safety over fun, but the latest generation of the S60 has proven itself to be both comfortable and enjoyable to drive. It has a fair amount of power on tap, so there really is no reason that it shouldn't be able to keep up with the likes of the Audi S4, especially if you opt for the electrified Polestar Engineered trim.

Naturally, comfort is still a primary concern, and the well-cushioned seats complement the suspension perfectly to absorb most bumps in the road with ease. In fact, it's this supreme level of comfort that disguises the Volvo's ability to have fun. You may not even realize how fast you are going when you swing into a corner, and the bolstered sport seats on the R-Design and Polestar models do an even better job of keeping you firmly in your seat.

Unfortunately, there is little-to-no feedback from the electrically assisted steering, but responses are quick and accurate. The wheel also gains a bit of heft as you speed along, ensuring that you are able to maneuver well without oversteering. Setting the drive mode to Dynamic helps a lot in this regard, as Eco and Comfort lean more into the traditional strengths of the brand.

While it may be true that there are more athletic rivals out there, the Volvo S60 isn't ready to throw in the towel. In fact, it has come a long way to stand on almost equal ground with its more famed competitors from Germany. However, it isn't yet at the level of performance-oriented rivals like the BMW M Performance or Mercedes-AMG models. Our faith has been renewed, though, and we are excited to see what Volvo has in store for us moving forward.

2022 S60 Interior

2022 S60 Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Verdict: Is the 2022 Volvo S60 A Good Car?

If you're looking for a comfortable, luxurious daily commuter, the 2022 Volvo S60 should definitely be on your shortlist. It is ranked as one of the safest vehicles on the road, so it is great for families, too, but the slightly cramped rear seats and small trunk mean that it lacks practicality as anything more than a town runabout.

A choice of two engines gives you some leeway to determine how athletic you want your Volvo to be. The B5 is a little underwhelming, but the T8 is more than adequate. The Polestar Engineered is particularly impressive, both for its outputs and its superior hybrid fuel economy. However, you will need to be willing to spend well above the starting $39,250 base price to get access to this model.

Even at the base level, though, you get loads of features, particularly in terms of safety, thanks to the updates for the new year. Comfort and convenience receive quite a bit of consideration, but genuine leather or Nappa leather are reserved for the upper trims. For the price, it is a pleasing and comfortable driver, but there are more athletic options out there if you're willing to invest some extra cash. With almost no real faults, the Volvo S60 is an excellent offering from the Swedish automaker and should be considered by anyone with an eye for quality.

What new Volvo S60 Model Should I Buy?

If you're looking for a new Volvo S60, you'll need to first determine exactly where your priorities lie. If you just want a no-frills luxury sedan for commuting to and from work, then the base-level Momentum is an excellent fit. The B5 engine doesn't feel underwhelming, and it gets loads of tech to boot. However, if you want a few extra bells and whistles, this extra cost can feel a lot heftier when you are paying more than the base price. The Inscription and R-Design are essentially identically equipped with plusher leather and more comfort features, but their exterior styling is quite different. If you have the money, though, we can't recommend the Recharge models highly enough. They have both the highest performance and best economy figures. They do cost a lot more upfront though, although you might just recoup your investment over time.

2022 Volvo S60 Comparisons

2022 Volvo S60 vs Audi A4 Sedan

Both are premium automobiles, but where the Volvo focuses on an exquisite interior and optimal ride comfort, its German rival leans more into the athletic side of things. Even the more powerful engine in the Audi A4 is only slightly better than the starter on the S60, developing 261 hp and 273 lb-ft and offering similar performance to the B5 on the Volvo. The Audi also gets all-wheel-drive as standard and handles significantly better, with much quicker throttle responses and better-weighted steering. Inside, it isn't quite as sumptuous, though it is still quite lavish. It does have a pinch more cargo room at 12 cubic feet, but it isn't enough to be a real sway factor. Each sedan has a respectable list of features and great safety ratings, but the Audi doesn't offer a full hybrid alternative, meaning that those with a greener mindset will prefer the S60. Overall, both are excellent options, but each will appeal to a different type of consumer. The Volvo will be preferred by those who value comfort above all else, with power to get you where you need to be quickly, while the Audi turns the tables and pairs excellent driving dynamics with a high-quality interior that doesn't quite match the Volvo's.

2022 Volvo S60 vs Volvo S90

Although sedans aren't as popular in the US as SUVs and crossovers, those who do still desire them generally prefer the larger variety. Since both share the same Volvo DNA, their interiors are immaculate. However, the S90 does have a little more space on offer, which is also extended to the trunk. Still, 13.5 cubic feet is nothing to write home about in a car this big. Naturally, the extra weight requires a more powerful engine, so the T6 is the standard motor on the S90. It matches the smaller sedan in sub-six-second sprint times, and it offers a Recharge range, too. However, there is no Polestar variant of the S90. Regardless, it is the more expensive sedan, even though its standard list of features is similar. Unless you really need the extra space in the rear seats, there isn't much reason to opt for the larger Volvo. However, it does make a bolder impression.