2019 Volvo S60: Scandinavian Luxury Meets American Manufacturing
The 2019 Volvo S60 marks a significant milestone as the first Volvo sedan built in the United States (Charleston, South Carolina), while maintaining the brand's signature Swedish design and engineering. This complete redesign builds on Volvo's successful SPA platform formula, offering familiar luxury with subtle refinements.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Powertrain Options and Trim Levels
T5 Momentum/Inscription/R-Design
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L I4
- Power: 250 hp / 258 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- Starting MSRP: $35,800
T6 Momentum/Inscription/R-Design
- Engine: Turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L I4
- Power: 316 hp / 295 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Starting MSRP: $40,300
- --TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
T8 Inscription/R-Design/Polestar Engineered
- Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid (2.0L I4 + dual electric motors)
- Power: 400 hp (415 hp Polestar)
- Electric Range: 22 miles (est.)
- Starting MSRP: $54,400
Driving Experience: Comfort Over Sport
Behind the wheel of the 2019 S60, several key characteristics emerge:
Ride Quality
Plush and comfortable, even with R-Design's sport suspension
Engine Performance
T6 delivers strong low-end torque; effortless highway passing
Handling
Competent but not engaging; noticeable body roll in corners
Steering Feel
Light and precise, but lacking feedback in dynamic modes
Strengths
- Exceptional front seat comfort
- Improved Sensus touchscreen response time
- Standard City Safety collision avoidance
- Class-leading interior materials
- Increased rear legroom (35.2 inches)
Weaknesses
- Polestar version lacks expected sharpness
- Overly sensitive brake pedal feel
- Transmission occasionally hesitant
- Limited rear USB ports (none standard)
- Large transmission tunnel intrusion
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
The Polestar Engineered Paradox
While the T8 Polestar Engineered model adds 15 additional horsepower (415 total), upgraded Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes, and unique 19-inch wheels, it fails to deliver a truly sporty experience:
- Body roll remains pronounced during aggressive cornering
- Brake pedal lacks progressive feel (either on or off)
- Hybrid powertrain eliminates traditional performance sounds
- Initially available only via $1,100/month subscription
Traditional Volvo buyers may appreciate the added performance, but enthusiasts will find the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio or BMW 340i more engaging.
Technology and Safety Advancements
The 2019 S60 benefits from Volvo's continuous improvements:
- Faster Sensus Infotainment: Boot time reduced from ~30 seconds to under 4 seconds
- Standard Safety Suite: Includes City Safety with automatic braking
- Available Pilot Assist: Semi-autonomous driving up to 80 mph
- Crystal Shift Knob: Optional Orrefors glass adds luxury touch
