Kelley Blue Book ® - 2003 Volvo S60 Overview

There is a tight little group of European sport sedans that have dominated the market for years now. Cars like the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 pretty much head the pack when it comes to serious-minded enthusiast driving. Recently, the field has gotten a bit more cramped with the arrival of Volvo's brilliantly styled S60 sedan. This slick four-door displays a very coupe-like profile that gives it a muscular and aggressive stance without looking like something you lusted after while still in high school.

The S60 has proven itself over the last two years, winning both praise and respect from the automotive press. For 2003, Volvo continues to improve and refine the front-wheel-drive S60, making it an even better value, especially in regards to the base 2.4 model. New standard features this year include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, an in-dash single CD player and a new 15-inch alloy wheel design. The base 2.4 continues to receive power from a five-cylinder 2.4-liter engine that makes 168 horsepower and comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission. In this form, the S60 provides a pretty sporty package, with good acceleration and handling, at an affordable price.

If power is a priority over economy, then you should step up to the turbo-charged 2.4T model. This engine has significantly more horsepower and torque, which makes it much quicker off the line and provides terrifically potent passing power. Oddly, no manual transmission is offered on the 2.4T, but Volvo does offer the option of its five-speed Geartronic automatic that allows you the fun of shifting your own gears without the use of clutch pedal. Though this transmission is effective, it's still not as quick or as much fun as a good old-fashioned 5-speed stick. Volvo also offers an all-wheel-drive model that features a larger 2.5-liter turbo rated at 236 horsepower. Volvo provides the 2.4T with a long list of standard and optional features, including a wide choice of stylish and functional alloy wheels. Base and 2.4T models have Stability and Traction Control (STC) that helps to prevent the front wheels from slipping and the 2.4T AWD and T5 have an even more advanced system known as Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC).

Volvo's commitment to the environment is ever-present as is evident by the introduction of their new Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) S60, made especially for and sold only in California.

True enthusiasts have not been forgotten because Volvo has saved the best of the best for its top-of-line S60: the awesome T5. This model uses the same 2.4-liter engine but is equipped with a high-pressure turbo that boosts horsepower to a gut-wrenching 243. The T5 also features a slick-shifting 5-speed manual joystick that hides the shift gate beneath a curved aluminum plate. The T5 gets a much stiffer suspension and optional 17-inch wheels and tires for a truly thrilling ride. Though the front-drive S60 cannot better the rear-drive BMW 330 for out-and-out cornering ability, it is more than a match for the likes of the Audi A4, Lexus IS and Saab 9-3.

No matter which S60 moves you most, all models share one thing in common; a roomy, ergonomically sound interior and an exceptional safety record. The S60's front seats feel wonderful on your back and feature an anti-submarine design that not only keeps you from sliding under the dash in the event of an accident, but also provides firm support for the undersides of your legs. The headrests are specially designed to prevent whiplash, another first in the long list of Volvo safety features. Speaking of safety, you'll be happy to know that the S60 features as standard equipment dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags, a rear fog light and daytime running lights. Of course, like all Volvos, the S60 is near tank-like in its construction and does very well in both government and private institutional crash test.

If there is one area that could use some more attention it might be the dash. Functionally, the S60's instrument layout is near perfect, with every switch, lever and button within easy reach of both the driver and passenger. Dual-zone climate controls keep each person happy and the optional 200-watt sound system is superb. The problem is that the interior is not very warm. There are vast gray tones that run throughout the dash, door panels and seats, though on 2.4T models, simulated wood trim does help a bit.