Volvo S60

Performance

Petrols include a 180bhp 2.0-litre, a 210bhp 2.5, a 260bhp 2.4 and a powerful 300bhp 2.5 in the R, all of which are spirited. Two 2.4-litre diesels are torquey and refined.

Driving

Good blend of ride comfort with driveability. Good cruiser as a result and it handles well.

Feel

Noise from the engines depends entirely on your choice of engine - the D5 is throaty when revved. Sport suspension will harm refinement.

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Price

Fuel economy depends on the engine but tax and residuals will hit you where it hurts.

Quality

Looks and feels nice inside and there shouldn't be any problems with reliability.

Safety

Six airbags, traction control, ABS are standard. Just 4 NCAP stars though, which must have really narked Volvo.

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Space

Generally good space throughout though rear legroom could be better.

Equipment

All cars feature electric windows and mirrors, alloys and cruise control. There are loads of options including an automatic gearbox with manual override.

Alternatives

Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C-Class, Jaguar X-Type

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Pros

Excellent cruiser, good engines.

Cons

A little bland and some very poor residuals - the S60 is in a niche of its own.

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