2022 Volvo S60 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

When shopping for a small luxury sedan, drivers shouldn’t look over the 2022 Volvo S60. Although this Swedish sedan may not get quite as much attention as the BMW 3-Series and other cars, it’s among the segment’s best models. Drivers appreciate the S60’s elegant exterior styling and well-appointed interior. Innovative safety features make this car a more attractive choice. Here’s why you should consider the new S60 as your next automobile.

What’s New for 2022?

The S60 returns for 2022 with an updated standard powertrain. Last year’s optional 316-horsepower gasoline engine is no longer offered.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Volvo S60 – The Pros

1. Updated Powertrain Brings Improved Efficiency

Although the 2022 Volvo S60 comes standard with a similar powertrain, it has been updated with mild-hybrid technology. This change has boosted fuel economy to an EPA-estimated 25 mpg town/35 mpg freeway. By comparison, last year’s model was rated to return 23 mpg town/34 mpg freeway. The car’s turbo four-cylinder engine musters out around 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Although there are quicker models in the class, the new S60 still zips to 60 mph in a brisk 6.2 seconds.

2. Relaxing Driving Experience

The new S60 is a relaxing car to drive. Its well-tuned electric steering system provides a great feel on the highway and at city speeds. Drivers also appreciate the versatility of the sedan’s independent suspension. While the S60 remains planted around curves, it still manages to put a big emphasis on ride comfort. Travelers will enjoy taking the S60 on long trips. Driver’s who desire more aggressive handling can opt for the R-Design trim’s lowered sport suspension.

3. Optional All-Wheel-Drive System

The front-wheel-drive S60 is a tad more efficient on the highway. However, motorists who reside in a cold-weather state will want the optional AWD system. It instantly transforms the S60 into a better performer on wintry roads. When encountering slippery conditions, the AWD system immediately redistributes torque to the wheels for improved grip. Experts consider the S60 to be a good car for traveling on snow-packed streets. When there’s inclement weather, drivers can leave home with an extra sense of security.

4. A Good-Looking Luxury Sedan

Unlike Volvo models of the past, the 2022 Volvo S60 stands out on the street. This sedan’s sculpted shape helps it to look stunning from every angle. It has the proportions of a classic sports sedan. While hammer-shaped LED headlights give the front fascia a signature touch, unique LED taillights are found on the rear. Optional 19-inch alloy wheels bring a sportier stance. Volvo also offers the S60 with a few intriguing paint colors, including Fusion Red Metallic and Crystal White Metallic.

5. Comfortable, Upscale Interior

When it comes to comfort, the 2022 Volvo S60 deserves to be mentioned among the best cars in the segment. Its first-class seats coddle passengers throughout the day. Folks who plan to do some spirited driving will like the R-Design trim’s sport seats. Available quad-zone automatic climate control takes passenger comfort to the next stage. Drivers will also love the cabin’s excellent fit and finish. Real leather upholstery comes standard on the range-topping Inscription trim.

6. Very Safe Automobile

Thoroughout the years, Volvo has held a reputation for manufacturing secure automobiles. With a top safety rating from the IIHS, the new S60 continues that legacy. Testers also applaud the sedan for its good forward and rearward visibility. An impressive collection of advanced driving aids comes standard. While blind-spot monitors scan lanes for hidden vehicles, low-speed automatic emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection gives drivers more protection in the city. Other popular safety tech, such as active lane control and adaptive headlights, are included as well.

7. 1,100-watt Bowers & Wilkins Premium Audio System

Serious music lovers will love the S60’s optional 1,100-watt Bowers & Wilkins premium stereo system. Critics rank it among the best-sounding audio systems in the class. It’s definitely a worthwhile investment for folks seeking top-notch audio quality. This system envelops the cabin with a total of 15 state-of-the-art speakers. Experts praise the unit for its excellent clarity, which helps ensure a realistic sound. Three sound modes also enable drivers to adjust the system for a personalized experience.

8. ProPilot Assist Enhances Driving Experience

Every new 2022 Volvo S60 receives ProPilot Assist as standard equipment. This advanced cruise control system makes the sedan even more pleasurable to drive. Advanced radar technology and cameras enable the system to automatically pilot the car under certain conditions. Not only does ProPilot Assist keep the car centered in its lane by providing steering support, but it also adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance. The goal is to decrease driver stress.

9. Offers Valuable Parking Aids

Some drivers find parking to be a quite challenging task. Fortunately, the S60 offers a few features that make the driver’s job easier. When maneuvering in a busy parking area, an available surround-view camera system helps drivers to scan for potential hazards. Drivers who live in a metropolitan area will especially appreciate the S60’s available Park Assist Pilot system. Aside from checking to see if a particular parking space is large enough, this system can also steer you into the space.

10. Attractively Priced

The 2022 Volvo S60 has a starting MSRP of less than $40,000. This means it’s less expensive than some of the segment’s other European luxury sedans. Most car shoppers will have no complaints about the S60’s list of standard equipment. Some of the key features consist of a 9.0-inch vertical touchscreen, a sunroof, a digitized gauge cluster, and a 10-speaker stereo. Buyers will also be thankful for the sedan’s confidence-inspiring safety tech.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Volvo S60 – The Cons

1. Mediocre Backseat Space

While the S60 can accommodate up to five occupants, its backseat could be roomier. It provides a mediocre 35.2 inches of rear legroom. There’s also not enough hip space when traveling with three passengers in the rear. Bigger families will find the more spacious Volvo S90 to be a more suitable choice. It provides an extra 5.2 inches of rear legroom.

2. Small Trunk

This sedan’s trunk will have no trouble accommodating shopping bags and groceries. Nevertheless, travelers will not be able to bring along a lot of extra luggage when taking road trips. Its trunk only provides 11.6 cubic feet of storage space.

3. Optional Twin-Charged Gasoline Has Been Discontinued

Last year, the S60 offered a more potent gasoline engine as an option. This advanced engine developed a muscular 316 horsepower, which lowered the sedan’s 0-60 mph time to around 5.2 seconds. Sadly, Volvo decided to no longer offer the powertrain for 2022. Drivers seeking more performance must opt for one of the S60’s available hybrid powertrains, which are a bit more expensive.

4. Standard FWD Setup Sacrifices Some Agility

While the 2022 Volvo S60’s front-wheel-drive system performs well, most other sedans in the segment are built on a rear-wheel-drive platform. Cars equipped with RWD typically offer sportier handling. Both the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes C-Class are a tad more exhilarating to drive.

5. Sensus Infotainment System Can Be Complicated to Use

Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system features a beautiful touchscreen, which is vertically positioned along the center stack. Unfortunately, some users will find this interface to be a bit complicated at first. It may take a while to learn how to operate the various functions. The absence of physical buttons also makes the system more difficult to use while on the road.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Volvo S60 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Drivers praise the redesigned C-Class for its extremely luxurious cabin. However, the new C-Class does have a higher starting MSRP. Another win for the 2022 Volvo S60 is its higher fuel economy rating. Some drivers may also favor the S60’s exterior styling.

2022 Volvo S60 vs 2022 Audi A4

The 2022 Audi A4 is another great pick. Standard Quattro all-wheel drive ensures excellent wintry-weather traction. However, its standard engine does not pack as much power. While some people like the A4’s conservative exterior styling, others find it to be just a bit too bland. Expect the S60’s exterior design to make a bolder statement.

2022 Volvo S60 vs 2022 BMW 3 Series

There’s a lot to like about the 2022 BMW 3-Series. It offers a sporty yet luxurious driving experience. However, this car’s trim levels are more expensive. Certain safety technologies are also exclusively offered on the new S60.

Conclusion

Drivers should definitely consider owning a 2022 Volvo S60. It is comfortable, pleasing to drive, and loaded with cutting-edge safety technologies. Improved fuel economy makes the 2022 model more appealing. While the entry-level Momentum trim is nice enough for most people, there are some premium options available. Beautiful exterior styling is another one of the new S60's strong points.

While the S60 is a top competitor in the small luxury sedan class, it does have just a few drawbacks. Some drivers will ultimately miss last year’s available 316-horsepower engine. Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system also has a sharp learning curve.