Our rare, exclusive and special 12 year old Volvo S60 D5

We chose the S60 in 2012 over its rivals for the advanced safety features (laser assisted auto-braking, adaptive cruise control), punchy D5 diesel engine, powerful AC, seat comfort, nappa leather, and of course the looks.

BHPian newton_meteor recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Having owned the Volvo S60 D5 for the past 12 years and having driven cars like the Superb, X1, 3-series, A6, 5-series, E-class, XF, X5, Q7, GLS and Range Rover Sport to name a few. I can try to answer this.

To me, luxury is something that is rare, exclusive and feels special. It’s a product where the brand has not compromised on what matters for a truly fulfilling experience.

We chose the S60 in 2012 over its rivals for the advanced safety features (laser assisted auto-braking, adaptive cruise control), punchy D5 diesel engine, powerful AC (dealer told it’s a 2-stage compressor), seat comfort, nappa leather, and of course the looks.

Volvos are known for their safety, practicality, comfort and reliability. All these are a given in most Volvos. The engine-gearbox mating is not as enthusiastic as the BMWs but you won’t mind it unless you are gunning it.

With the traction control in sport (cannot switch off), you can do this.

The 2.4 litre twin-turbo 5-cyl D5 diesel is very punchy churning about 205hp & 420Nm, has a roaring exhaust note like a mini V10 making it a sweet sounding diesel.

Of course, it can’t keep up with the 530d which is creamy and effortless. The D5 is throaty and works hard without giving up

The front seats deserve a special mention. They are extremely well designed, great thigh support, bolster you at the right places. The other day, a friend who sat in the car told me that they feel like theatre recliners 

It doesn’t look out of place next to a Mercedes or even a Bentley.

Loves to munch miles! The car insulates you extremely well from the outside world (laminated windows) but you can hear the engine. I actually don’t mind this.

The electro-hydraulic power steering is heavy, all those who’ve driven the car have felt that way but it’s just a matter of getting used to. The sharpness may not be as good as old BMWs or Fords (pinpoint driving) but the feedback is great (you feel the road, tyres and sensation of grip).

It has a European suspension tune (firm at low speeds, no float at medium speeds & composed at high speeds). Initially, came shod with 215/50 R17s but those tyres had to go soon due to sidewall damages. Ever since, we have stuck to 225/50 R17s and no complaints. Post 1.2L kms, we got the suspension overhaul done as suggested by the Volvo dealer due to the bushes turning hard and compression/rebound of the dampers were inconsistent. This has truly transformed the ride. It has a supple edge now (maybe Volvo altered the tuning in the new parts). But I’m loving this slightly cushioned effect.

Note the FoMoCo branding, no wonder the S60 is a driver’s delight.

Is it equal to Germans? It’s rare, feels exclusive, doesn’t rattle after 12 years & 1.24L kms, costs 1.5L a year to maintain on an average since the past 12 years, punchy engine, feature packed, comfortable ride-handling balance, still grabs a lot of eyeballs. I’ll leave the answer upto your discretion!

Save the diesels!

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