The 2023 Volvo S60 is a stylish and likable sedan that delivers a more laid-back driving experience than several sportier rivals. The S60 lineup receives a facelift and new infotainment software. The appearance changes are subtle, with small design tweaks made to the front and rear bumpers and some new wheel designs.
Inside, the 2023 Volvo S60’s large, vertically oriented touchscreen now features a Google-based interface that brings new graphics and a different menu structure than its predecessor. Unfortunately, its on-screen icons make it harder to operate while on the move than the previous version of the system.
Volvo has revealed the mildly updated S60/V60 with a new range structure, the latest Android-based infotainment system, small design changes that can easily go unnoticed, and a new automatic gearbox resulting in lower emissions in certain trims.
The current generation Volvo S60/V60 was originally introduced in 2018, and now, four years later, the time has come for a mid-lifecycle update. This comes as no surprise of course, following the recent facelift of the XC60 SUV.
ENGINE AND IMPLEMENTATION
The non-hybrid 2023 Volvo S60 has a 247-hp turbocharged four-cylinder that pairs with front- or all-wheel drive. Power increases to 400 horsepower on the all-wheel-drive-only Recharge plug-in hybrid, and the top-of-the-line Recharge Polestar Engineered is even sportier.
The latter makes 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. Along with adaptive dampers and exclusive 19-inch wheels, the Polestar edition is solely available as part of the Care by Volvo subscription plan.
We were impressed with the over-the-road prowess of a T6 R-Design model we tested in 2019, but ultimately felt it lacked the driver-to-car-to-road connection and steering feel of the best sports sedans.
And during a comparison test against four-cylinder rivals, a more basic S60 model finished last due to its more subdued driving nature versus sportier alternatives such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia and BMW 3-series. No, the 2023 Volvo S60 leans more towards luxury than sport.
ENERGY AND REAL-WORLD MPG
The non-hybrid 2023 Volvo S60 is rated up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The plug-in-hybrid version has a 74 MPGe estimate and an electric-only drive range of 41 miles.
Once we run one on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate their real-world mpg. For more information about the 2023 Volvo S60’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
Volvo flaunts its superb build quality inside the 2023 Volvo S60, which delights with upscale materials throughout and uncommon attention to detail. The design is undeniably forward-thinking and replete with flourishes such as jeweled switchgear and supremely comfortable seats.
Its deluxe features include a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, massaging front seats, and more. Not only are front-seat passengers cosseted by comfortable and supportive buckets, but those in the back seat will also appreciate its generous legroom and headroom.
Interior cubby space is highlighted by useful door pockets and a center console that boasts a tray with a retractable cover and a handy bin below the armrest but, unfortunately, all of these storage spots have limited space. We also managed to fit five carry-on suitcases in the 2023 Volvo S60’s trunk, which is one less than the 3-series.
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
Every S60 features a tablet-style infotainment system that operates through a Google-based interface. While we haven’t yet had our hands on one inside the sedan, we’ve interacted with a version in the compact luxury XC60 SUV, which was a most pleasant experience.
The system’s native-voice assistant works well, and we appreciate both the physical home button at the bottom of the screen and the large volume knob below it. However, this system—like too many others—lacks a tuning knob.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected to be standard; a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system is expected to be optional.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
The handsome sedan also has a variety of driver-assistance technology as standard, as well as options such as a semi-autonomous drive mode.
For more information about the 2023 Volvo S60’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
PHOTOS
