2022 Volvo S60 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The 2022 Volvo S60 is a top contender in the small luxury sedan class. Many automotive gurus praise this Swedish model for its upscale features and signature exterior styling. Experts also give the new S60 top marks for its well-engineered safety technologies. While the S60 may lack the performance capabilities of its German rivals, it still manages to offer a great driving experience.

Notable updates make the 2022 model more appealing. A new mild-hybrid system now comes standard, which has helped take fuel economy to the next level. For drivers seeking a more exciting look, Volvo offers an all-new Black Edition appearance package.

When checking out the 2022 Volvo S60, car shoppers will have multiple trims to select from. Drivers must decide which version of this sedan best fits their budget and desired degree of luxury. Here’s an overview of how the available trim levels compare.

 

Compare the Momentum vs R-Design. What is the Difference?

Priced just under $40,000, the S60 Momentum has the lineup's least expensive starting MSRP. For the money, it brings a great deal of luxury to the table. Most drivers will also be perfectly pleased with the Momentum trim’s performance capabilities.

This year, the S60 Momentum features an updated powertrain. Its turbo four-cylinder engine has been paired with a new mild-hybrid system. Volvo rates it to generate 247 horsepower, which promotes good acceleration off the line. Drivers can expect a 0-60 mph time of roughly 6.3 seconds. Like every other trim, the S60 Momentum uses an eight-speed automatic transmission.

In contrast to most of the other models in this class, the S60 comes standard with a front-wheel-drive system. This helps promote better traction in bad weather. However, folks who live in the Snowbelt may still want the sedan’s optional AWD system.

With the car’s new mild-hybrid system comes improved fuel economy. Drivers can anticipate getting a government-rated 26 mpg town/35 mpg town on premium gas. Opting for the AWD system lowers efficiency to 25 mpg town/33 mpg freeway.

An independent suspension helps ensure good handling. Even when taking the S60 on a twisty back road, it still feels quite athletic. Ride comfort is also very repectable for a luxury sedan.

Despite being at the bottom of the lineup, the S60 Momentum doesn’t sacrifice much in the styling department. It looks just as upscale as the higher trim levels. Modern “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and an attractive set of 18-inch alloy wheels come standard. Retractable auto-dimming side mirrors also come equipped on the Momentum trim.

Upon stepping inside the S60 Momentum, test drivers will notice its stellar cabin quality. High-grade interior materials help make this trim an even better value. Synthetic leather upholstery comes standard. Car reviewers also rave about the comfort and support of the S60’s 10-way power front seats. Lumbar adjustments are built into the seats.

Some other nice amenities also come standard. A tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel helps you to obtain a confident driving position. Meanwhile, dual-zone automatic climate control makes it easy to keep the cabin at a relaxing temperature. One of the S60 Momentum’s biggest perks is its power panoramic sunroof. This premium feature is typically an extra cost.

Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system is quite advanced. It uses a vertical 9.0-inch touchscreen, which provides the latest smartphone integration features. Voice recognition software makes the interface safer to operate while on the road. Meanwhile, a 10-speaker stereo with satellite radio helps entertain music listeners. Bluetooth technology and multiple USB ports are also included with the infotainment system.

Instead of a traditional analog gauge cluster, the S60 Momentum features a digital driving display. From the current temperature to fuel economy, drivers will be able to quickly access a lot of key information.

Volvo packs the Momentum trim with the latest safety tech. With the use of radar technology, the sedan’s forward collision system can warn the driver of a potential crash. If they don’t take action, this system will automatically engage the brakes. While Volvo’s lane-keeping system can provide steering assistance, blind-spot monitoring alerts you to approaching traffic. A backup camera, high-beam assist, and rear parking sensors also come standard.

New for 2022 is the S60 Momentum’s optional Black Edition appearance package. It adds a number of blacked-out visual enhancements. Exclusive 19-inch wheels with a triple-five-spoke design further bolster the car’s curb appeal. This eye-catching package is only offered in two paint colors: Crystal White Metallic and Onyx Black Metallic.

There are some other tempting options available for the S60 Momentum. Drivers who live in cold-weather states will be interested in the Climate Package, which brings front-seat heating and a heated steering wheel. The package’s headlight-washing system helps rinse away road salt.

Another option is the Premium Package. It brings a few more high-tech goodies, including wireless phone charging and an integrated navigation system. This package also adds a couple of safety-enhancing features. While the front parking sensors help drivers to avoid fender benders, adaptive LED fog lights improve visibility on murky nights.

Although the Advanced Package is a rather expensive upgrade, some folks will consider it to be a good investment. It equips the sedan with Volvo’s exceptional Pilot Assist system. Not only does this advanced cruise control system make sure you remain a safe distance away from the next vehicle ahead, but it also actively keeps the car centered in its lane. A head-up display and a 360-degree camera are also included.

Music fanatics who desire better audio quality will be interested in the optional Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Its 14 speakers are strategically placed throughout the cabin for a surround-sound experience. A 610-watt amplifier also helps minimize any distortion.

Drivers who desire a sportier flavor should consider stepping up to the S60 R-Design. Black exterior accents and exclusive wheels give it a meaner attitude. The Momentum trim’s optional adaptive LED fog lights are standard on the R-Design trim. This trim also feels racier on the inside. A performance steering wheel and aluminum sport pedals help create a more fun environment.

Although the S60 R-Design may pack the same amount of power under the hood, a sports suspension is optional. By aiding handling, this upgrade makes the sedan more entertaining to drive on winding roads. Like the Momentum trim, it can be equipped with an AWD system.

Some people consider the R-Design trim to be the lineup’s best bang for the buck. Nappa leather seating surfaces give the cabin a more luxurious aura. Rear passengers will especially appreciate the quad-zone automatic climate control system. Other standard items include navigation, wireless phone charging, and the Harman Kardon premium audio system.

On the R-Design trim’s list of options is an upgraded Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system with 15 speakers. Its high-performance amplifier is rated to generate 1,400 watts of power. An air-vented subwoofer helps the system to produce strong bass.

Compare the R-Design vs Inscription Trim. What is the difference?

The S60 Inscription is not as sporty-looking as the R-Design trim. Nevertheless, it’s still a stylish model. Chrome exterior details help give the Inscription trim an upscale appearance.

On the inside, you’ll find genuine wood accents and perforated Nappa leather upholstery. Cold-weather amenities, such as heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, make winter drives a bit warmer. Buyers also don’t have to pay extra for the Inscription trim’s 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Compare the Inscription vs Recharge PHEV T8 R-Design Expression. What is the difference?

The Recharge PHEV T8 R-Design Expression is equipped similarly to the entry-level Momentum trim. However, it features a plug-in hybrid powertrain. A supercharger helps boost output to 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. Anticipate a quicker 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Standard all-wheel drive helps promote effortless acceleration and improved traction on wet pavement.

Drivers should not expect a big increase in fuel economy. This plug-in hybrid model returns a combined 30 mpg, which is identical to trims equipped with the base engine. However, an all-electric mode enables you to cruise for up to 19 miles on pure battery power.

Compare the Recharge PHEV T8 R-Design Expression vs Recharge PHEV T8 R-Design. What is the difference?

In terms of exterior design, the Recharge PHEV T8 R-Design trim looks much like the less powerful R-Design trim. Various same amenities are also found on the inside. However, a more potent plug-in hybrid powertrain and a standard AWD system set it apart. In addition, it receives Volvo’s highly recommended Pilot Assist system as standard equipment material.

Compare the Recharge PHEV T8 R-Design vs Recharge PHEV T8 Inscription. What is the difference?

Aside from a different powertrain, the S60 Recharge PHEV T8 Inscription is virtually the same as the previously mentioned Inscription trim. Of course, all-wheel drive is a standard convenience.

Compare the Recharge PHEV T8 Inscription vs Recharge PHEV T8 Polestar Engineered. What is the difference?

From a performance standpoint, the PHEV T8 Polestar Engineered model sits atop the trim ladder. Special tuning enables it to develop an extra 15 horsepower, thus increasing output to 415 horsepower. Acceleration will be just a tad quicker. To elevate this high-performance model’s handling capabilities, Volvo equips it with a more athletic Polestar Engineered chassis and exclusive Öhlins suspension dampers. Brembo brakes are also found on the PHEV T8 Polestar Engineered trim.

Special styling cues further separate the PHEV T8 Polestar Engineered trim from the rest of the lineup. An exclusive set of 21-inch forged alloy wheels with summer performance tires comes standard. Gold-colored brake calipers add another cool touch. You’ll also notice the sedan’s more aggressive front fascia.

Gold seat belts and aluminum sport pedals give the interior a more exciting feel. All the best features come standard. Highlights include the range-topping Bowers and Wilkins premium sound system, a head-up display, and an advanced adaptive cruise control system.

 

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to recommend the entry-level Momentum trim. It’s loaded with great features, including a 9.0-inch vertical touchscreen and a panoramic sunroof. Standard safety technologies also help make the S60 Momentum a good pick. Volvo’s new mild-hybrid system has boosted fuel economy without causing a noticeable loss of power. Driver's who want to turn more heads should check off the optional Black Edition appearance package.

Although the R-Design trim is roughly $3,000 more expensive, it's arguably better. Apart from taking sportier styling cues, the S60 R-Design also comes standard with a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and has a four-zone automatic climate control feature. Moreover, the catalog has a sport suspension, a must for driving enthusiasts.
It’s important to note that the S60 R-Design and the S60 Inscription have a similar price tag. While the Inscription trim may not be as sporty, it does add a standard Premium package. At the end of the day, neither trim will leave you disppoainted.

Folks who desire the S60’s available PHEV T8 powertrain should prepare to shell out more money. The good news is the plug-in hybrid models are eligible for a federal tax incentive. While the range-top PHEV T8 Polestar Engineered trim does offer the most driving fun, Volvo lists it with a starting MSRP of nearly $65,000. If your budget can handle the S60 PHEV T8 Polestar Engineered, it will be a solid choice.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2021 Volvo S60 Trime Levels