Hey Mark. Im actually a mechanical engineer who spent crazy amount of hours working on the new S/V60 cars (and other cars at Volvo). Thank you for this review. It makes all the hard work I put into this worth it when I can see that people appreciate it. I can assure you that I did my absolute best engineering without cutting any corners, ever. I have followed your channel for years and Im always eager to hear your opinion on cars, especially Volvo. Keep up the good work!
Where do you work and what engineering projects do you get to work on? Thanks. Its good to know people are working hard on this stuff. I do appreciate good work.
SnakePrank I’m sure we’d all appreciate a long interview with senior engineers about the trade offs decisions and any regrets the engineering team has. Honestly Volvo is the most interesting manufacturer to a lot of us.
@@savagegeese During that time I worked in Gothenburg, Sweden (where all the engineering gets done. Geely is "just" the owner) on both the CMA and SPA projects . I was developing the BIW and other car body components. The guys over at Volvo Cars (and Trucks for that matter) know their stuff. A lot of competent people work there.
@@Zee133 that is interesting. I have a 2018 XC60 and I love the car ... Thinking about the polestar upgrade... Since I didn't get the T6 I wanted to get a better refinement specially on the shifting. What do you think about it?
I'd like to know why the Polestar software isn't installed in Volvos by default, with the option to turn a switch on or off to employ it (or, to have it just be the default software for the transmission shifting).
I just bought one of these CPO with 17k on the ODO, I couldn't agree with you more, its BY FAR the most underrated sedan on the market, and a screaming deal as a CPO.
There is no such thing as an electric steering system with good feel. The Porsche ones come close, but still not very good compared to the hydraulic units in the older ones. @Tom
@@boboutelama5748 There will certainly be a huge loss of value. There always is from new. However your speculation about lifespan is plain silly. Modern cars tend to last longer than ever before in history with better reliability and rustproofing. What will render these cars obsolete is the rise of electric car popularity. Maybe in ten years time but maybe nearer 20 years.
Sorry, I'm ready to die for this affirmation. Rustproofing is of course better, but we had peak reliability in the car business around the 90's to 2000's. Especially japanese cars had, back then, nearly indestructible mechanics and the very conservative electronics, that helped to make them the collectibles they are today. Try to make 300'000km on a Volksagen Golf or a BMW 315i... the CEO at BMW himself claimed in an interview that "no modern car should live more than 200'000km". @@hedydd2
Volvo's interior is always beyond that of others. I still think the cars made between 2005 to before this interior looked better, but still think this is FAR better then others because it looks clean, it doesn't look like a "boyish" design! it looks like it has class
Hands down the best review of this car. Thanks for showing the s60 on a hoist. I just bought this car because there are just so damn many of its competitors on the road. Its different, comfortable, capable and safe.
I have the fusion red also. I rarely see any new model S60 T6 R-Design's on the road. We Volvo S60 owners stand out from the pack. The A4's, BMW's and Mercedes are so common they are tired....
It was about a year ago I talked to a Volvo mechanic that told me that the reason Volvo went with the Aisin 8spd was that the originally planned ZF 9spd gearbox that was planned turned out "unsatisfactory" and Volvo declined the offer and went to Aisin. Not sure if that really happened but looking at the failure rates of the ZF 9spd in various FCA & Honda products, I'm actually believing that could have been the case. Back to the S60 - I'm surprised Volvo made a product that is a sporty as it looks even before getting to the S60R or Polestar models. I agree it would be a lease only vehicle because of its new design & complicated tech, but the car overall is a solid effort. Whoever said Chinese ownership would ruin Volvo is probably punching themselves right now, because Volvo is stronger than ever under Geely than its entire history under Ford.
People were always saying Volvo turbos are going to be unreliable. Truth is they're fine. I'm tired of seeing only Audi's and BMW's on the street, I hope people buy this.
I love my e90 BMW for the exact reasons that you dislike this car. All of the controls in the BMW are physical and easy to use. It also has a naturally aspirated straight 6 that is reliable. Too much tech/complication to be fuel efficient in today's modern cars in my opinion. Great review as always sir.
oh man. i love my e90, but i couldn't put up with the NA 330i. too damn slow. got tired of getting overtaken by camrys, sold after 4 months. ive had my 335i for 5 years. the e90 is incredible!
Volvo is ranked by Direct UK (largest extended warranty company in UK) as one of the top 5 most reliable engine builders vs BMW being ranked in as one bottom worst. Volvo has been building reliable Forced Aspiration engines for decades!
Volvo makes some amazing stuff. Growing up I had Swedish friends and they always had Volvos. A few 850 turbos a C70 and a few V70Rs they have the best seats in the business and just an overall amazing interior. Even back in the 90s. Enjoyed the video thanks!
The quality of your videos Savage has gone up yet another notch ! The small little details, until the very end of your video, is incredible! Excellent job all around my man... All of youtubers should learn a few things from you. This is how you make quality videos !
I really appreaciate how he discusses potential reliability. No one discusses that besides Skotty Kilmer. I wish he would discuss it more - especially because his reviews are so in depth. It is so much more important than most people discuss in these videos.
They dont make the 5 cylinder any more. The Polestar s60/v60 was the latest R equivalent. The new S60 is goingbto have a Polestar editiob but it is a PHEV
Agreed, with a little suspension work it was a great car, however, as Alex2 noted, the 5 cylinder engines are gone, the "new" 4's are not as smooth, but at least in T6 form, they put out plenty of power.
I just bought a 2021 CPO R design Polestar Engineered AWD...it is simply my all time favorite car out there right now. Looks,comfort,tech,safety just perfect imo
It wouldn't be a bad idea to add a few shots from driving in snow and sharing observation about advantages and downsides of Haldex. All in all, professional review as always enjoyable to watch. Thank you SG. Greeting from Poland and Merry Christmas!
The current Haldex works very well indeed, considering these are all-road cars not off-road cars. Early Haldex versions of years ago used to require a certain amount of wheelspin to engage the rear wheels but all current versions, whichever car brand it is fitted to, starts off from a standstill with rear drive engaged and the ECU anticipates when and where 4wd is required and engages it in fractions of a second, mostly in advance of need.
I loved this review. You give praise where it’s due but you’re not afraid to be brutally honest about the negatives of a car. I will be subscribing so I can see more of your content in the future.
The shot where you attached the camera to the driver door and closed it was amazing. It moved on its own in a very natural way, like it was alive. Would be cool if you could find a camera mount that could replicate that type of motion in a controlled way for one of your "artsier" videos. Great work.
I went through Turbowski withdrawal when he was working in a Vietnamese brothel, but I'm glade he's back. Is it true he's addicted to preparation H . You guys are the best!
I'm a bit of a Volvo fanboy, but I'm not biased. I owned a couple of the old school RWD 4cyl Volvos, which were amazingly stout cars and by far the most comfortable cars I've ever sat in. I'm loving the looks of these new Volvos. I fully expect they don't hold a candle to the old ones in terms of reliability. Back in the day, Volvos were known for robust engineering and excellent safety, but not exactly handsome cars. Nowadays, all the competition have caught up with the safety. Reliability has plummeted. The only thing Volvo has going for it is the styling, which is entirely subjective. I think they have a beautifully restrained elegant look about them and look great. I prioritize reliability and quality over looks and performance stats though. Fortunately for Volvo, I don't think most new car buyers think like I do.
Volvos were great cars until you needed parts. Look too at the history of Volvo. They focused on safety after they were shocked by the early crash tests.
@jonny j Having taken mine apart to do some after-market customizations... I'll just say: These cars are well-built, well-assembled, and very well-designed. I did get a lease, but only because I really want the fully autonomous & Android-powered 2021 model. ;-) The tech is quite likely going to be buggy over time... Although I've had zero issues w/ 5K miles in my XC60, but I also manually update the software in mine on a regular basis. All European premium cars, be it a modern Volvo, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, etc are loaded with tech. And were already expensive to service. It's the downside of anything "premium". If you want cheap and reliable, Honda/Subaru/Toyota/Hyundai/Kia are all making amazing cars. That said... none of those non-EU imports is going to be nearly as comfortable or pleasing as the EU imports. It's a trade off, just like anything else!
It's really isn't the same company, only in name. The Volvo of old died in 1998, with the 850 and rwd wagons. My 240s may not have anywhere near the performance, but surely match the comfort. I'm sure in the end they will drive three to four times as many miles as this car. 275k on one, 235+ on the other.
Volvo is still ahead on safety. The XC90 has been sold for sixteen years in the UK out of many tens of thousands sold and many thousands crashed, there has not been one single fatality in that time. NOT ONE. I've no idea why you would have the perception that reliability has plummeted. The new platform has had some minor software glitches that have been subject to several updates, which are free of charge and some added useful extra features, which you expect on every modern newly introduced computerised models of anything these days, from cameras, to laptops, to iPads to cars. The only ones I would be wary of, but again with no evidence that I should be, would be the hybrid models. These really are a new technology that adds complication. The saving grace being that even if the electric drive fails completely when it gets old, the car can still be used as a conventional gas car.
A couple years later, we now have about 5 years of cars out there with this twin charged motor and it seems to be holding up pretty well. Perhaps more reliability than originally anticipated?
I have been VERY interested in Volvos since this new SPA architecture debuted. I'm pretty confident that the Mrs's next ride will be one. This S60 makes an extremely compelling case for itself. Your thoughts have only served to reaffirm my perceived beliefs about it. Thank you for your content SG!
Perfect car to lease. Great review as always. Need to do both the Jag XE and Alfa Giulia 4 cylinder models as a comparison. My Lexus IS is coming off lease soon and this may be in the running.
Another great review. I definitely agree on the interior electronics. I just cannot imagine ever wanting to touch a screen to adjust the AC. I really love how my Mazda 6 is laid out. I have a touch screen, but with the selector wheel and steering wheel controls, I literally never touch it. AC controls are all mechanical and incredibly east to use.
I was sold on this wonderful car, until I went to test drive the last car on my list. The Alfa Romeo Giulia captured my heart, and now almost 4 years later, I'm still in love with it.
It looks like this is a total 3-Series killer. Thanks for the technical details! I need that amazing alloy dash element in my life! Very nice interior except for piano gloss black, especially the steering wheel buttons.
the dynamics still aren't up to the 3-series being this is fwd/awd. for the non-sports oriented luxury buyer (80% of them), I agree with you. I wonder how wood trim would mesh with such a modern looking interior
Austin Apt Open pore wood trim is an option on these cars and it looks even more awesome than the silver mesh, especially matched to interior trim other than black. Having said that, some 90 models have a black open pore wood option.
@@papa_pt Wood options aren't bad. "Linear lime" goes well with black. Or white. "Drift wood" on the other hand, that is just too much. Certainly looks like dead beach wood and what goes with that? :D
+Addictive_LiquoriCe Sand drift Alcantara? Beachstone leather? Wait...I thought I had something better for this...Tidal blue velour track suit! Fa-get-about-it!
Thank you SavageGeese for another excellent video. I bought a used 2013 S60 T5 in 2016. Had a couple of visits to the dealer. Thats the thing, Europeans vs Japanese, long life quality. Had Honda /Acura for more that 25 years: so smooth nothing. But When you sit and drive the S60, man this wows you compared to others. Keep them reviews, we need them ! :-)
Mr Goose: In WWII many aircraft were coumpound-charged. The old farts I’ve talked to mostly refer to it as turbo-supercharged...If you want to add it to your repertiore, it might smooth out your delivery...As always, keep up the great work.
I don't get it. My 2017 XC90 has never had any lag and hardly takes any time to boot up. It has all the toys too, so its no low-rent budget model. The more you use the infotainment the more you appreciate the voice and steering wheel controls and the less time you use the touchscreen. My XC90 also has the transverse plastic leaf spring and I have zero complaints about it apart from the fact that road noise in the cabin could be better insulated. Mine is the D5 turbodiesel and it pulls like a train with superb power and torque and is nice and quiet. I also regularly get between 38 and 42 mpg imperial. Thats 32 to 35 USmpg. The Aisin transmission is fitted to the Audi Q7 and has been back to 6 speed days, on diesel models. I know this is a front wheel drive model but the power flow through the transmission is near identical apart from the deletion of one brake pack to be replaced by a shorter shaft and a brake band. Try a Polestar upgrade for a sharper transmission with more predictive and intuitive downchanging.
I don't get this praise of voice commands... I've yet to see any car where the voice commands work very well at all; they tend to be so frustrating that many people (including myself) never use them... And, if you're talking to somebody in the car or on the phone, or listening to music, or doing something else, you don't want to use some hit-or-miss computer voice system to try to do something that you should be able to do with simple buttons/knobs.
Dan Green All you need do to get relevant phrases that it understands is to ask "help". Try it for temperature control first, where it is infallible. Just say "temperature 23" [if Celcius]]. I do not use it for the phone, because or precise navigation in Wales, because it doesn’t do Welsh names, so it certainly has limitations. It’s great for choosing FM or DAB but then I toggle through pre-set stations which are in order, by using the steering wheel or controls either side of the volume knob below the screen. When it really isn’t convenient to use voice control, there are alternatives. There’s the pop-up menu on the dash, controlled by the steering wheel buttons, or indeed there is the Sensus screen itself. Anything other than basic settings are best done when parked, although HVAC alterations are dead simple once you’ve used. It a few times, although it’s so simple to use voice, I seldom do. I can understand that some people will just not adapt to this kind of control system and that therefore this series of Volvo and cars like it are just not for them. Personally I find it simple, intuitive and far less detracting from driving the car than physical controls spread over the dashboard.
I really enjoy your driving segments and examining the cars underneath. This is what separates you from the others along with the cinematography. Great work as always!
Great synopsis on the new S60. I don't think I would personally be interested in any volvo there is just way too much going on but cars will always have the advantage over an SUV. I hope people will start seeing that more and more. This touchscreen obsession is also a problem, in my G80 climate controls take forever to load
Why do the Volvo owners of old on here think anyone gives a shit how their old Volvo is amazing WE DONT CARE Take the Volvo purist bullshit to your Volvo praising Volvo groups!
Volvo have utilized forced induction in their family cars more than any other manufacturer has in the past 50 years, and the engines in those cars have been some of the most reliable engines ever made. The polestar version of this 2l can already push 362hp from the factory (more HP per liter than a Mclaren 720S), so I'm sure they know what they are doing reliability wise.
The beauty of the plastic transverse leaf spring is that it is intrinsically an anti-roll device, which means that it not only replaces individual springs but also the complete anti-roll bar system.
Trying to understand your point regarding the engine. It sounded like you were saying that the T6 with the turbo and supercharger could be future problems. However, what do you think of the T5 which only has the turbo? Do you think that model is better with less/no future problems?
I just bought one of these two days ago. I hope it ends up being reliable because I'm instantly in love with it and would love to eventually buy it out
by the way bro the "Bowers & Wilkins" system is designed by Harman under a licensing agreement. i looked up schematic for the base Harman system and the upgrade B&W system and sure enough it's the same system with an extra tweeter in the middle. of course i'm sure Harman de-tuned the system in the base variant to make B&W branded system sound better by comparison. i have no problem with this or even with Harman charging $3,000 extra for the same exact system but with a different name - this is basic market segmentation - similar to how "Jordan" sneakers are made by Nike or how Yeezys are made by Adidas. The reason i have no problem with this is because Nike, Adidas and Harman all make good product but some people simply must pay double because they're better than the rest of us. in the audio industry when you want to upcharge you change the color of speaker cones and make the tweeter look funky - then you can make it sound more expensive with DSP settings and charge double for the same system. this isn't even as much a ripoff as charging extra $10,000 for yellow seatbelts and "polestar" badge with a mild engine tune and maybe $1,000 worth of chassis and suspension upgrades.
I am *so glad* that your prior concerns about driving dynamics and power delivery from Volvo's T+S 4 are resolved in this smaller, lower iteration of the platform. I've been drooling over the V60 since the press photos were released, and with this review I feel confident that it'll be a great drive with little compromise. Currently driving a Saab 9-3 Aero wagon (one in a long line of wagons and hatchbacks) that's a nose-heavy beast, but still fun to toss around on winding roads, with the added bonus of hauling a ton of sh*t when needed. I enjoyed the underbody walk through and appreciate comments on consistency of build quality. They got most things right for me, so I think I can forgive the touch UI for climate controls. Great review, as always, SG!
These cars look GREAT! I'd look into buying one of these in a few years, but so much technology in these cars, not sure it will hold up year 4-5-6 of owner ship like my honda accord is :/
Just wait a few years and see how their reliability is rated as some example reach high mileage, especially in terms of engine and transmission. Probably would be more reliable to get the simple turbo engine. The lower spec/lower powered versions will likely be the most reliable.
5 and 6 years may be in if you don't drive too much miles. Modern cars tend to fall apart at 170'000km. Before of that, you could go slip through the gremlins (but not warranted).
@@boboutelama5748 I do too much driving for vehicles like this unfortunately ha. I bought my 2016 4Runner less than 19 months ago and I'm closing in on 55K miles. I bought it brand new.
Thank you for this review! I bought my 2017 S90 largely on the basis of your recommendation, and have not been disappointed at all. This car, however, is calling to me, and I am excited to test drive it when it comes to my local dealer. I have to ask you, though, how did you manage to get this car somewhere in the Northern Central part of the country (I'm guessing), when everyone else had it in California? And thank you for not wasting my time with a review of the Polestar Engineered version, a 20 car run that sold out in less than an hour, so why would we want to hear about it?
I just bought a 2021 S60 R-DESIGN which was a CPO with less than 30k on the odo and I can't get enough of driving it. It's easily the nicest car I've ever owned and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. The only thing lacking in my car is the B&W audio system. Seats are fantastic and so comfortable. The Harman Kardon sound system is great despite it not having the fancy stuff. Didnt get the flappy paddles and don't think they're needed. If this is Volvo going forward, they're set for a bright future. Until i have serious issues, I'd highly recommend this car as an alternative to the usual Germans (and i say this as a former BMW owner).
The US domestic brands are building in the US, too, but they are compelled to use UAW staff and therefore the quality is shit. The foreign makes don't have history with the UAW and can thus build in right-to work states, and the quality is better. Unions are good, but the UAW is a boat anchor and should be avoided by both business and labor alike.
Another great video to watch in the morning. Love this channel. And it looks like Volvo made a decent one here. I'd love to take a listen to that audio system.
Some years back I watched in dismay as GM destroyed my favorite auto manufacturer, Saab. Ford hadn't managed to do the same with Volvo at that point but when they sold the automobile division to a Chinese firm I figured the same fate awaited it. Was I wrong! Geely has done a magnificent job in not only saving a great marque but in infusing the brand with style and technology that Volvo never had in the past. Kudos!
Stephen Hendricks Zheijang (sp?) Holdings involvement in what you see is money and NOT getting in the way of designers and engineers. What you see is nota Chinese car. It is a wholly Swedish car. Ford put a leash on Volvo, the new owners only ask for return on investment.
@@nodak81 In the 1990's virtually every small volume automaker faced huge challenges to their survival in an era of globalization and consolidation. Every one of those manufacturers was eventually absorbed by much larger international manufacturers. It was Saab's misfortune to be acquired by GM, a company whose mismanagement and talent at "running a car company into the ground" dwarfed that of virtually every automaker in the world.
@@nodak81 no they didnt, GM fucked them over. Even when the restructured SAAB tried to rebuild the 9-3 and 9-5, GM refused to sell them parts. Read please.
The S60 was in my short list, I bought the new Lincoln MKZ with AWD and the 3.0 twin turbo making 400/400 and while I wish Lincoln had moved to the bigger screens I am in love with the hot rod Lincoln. A poor kid in a new V6 camaro found out the new Lincoln had more going than he expected, I smoked him to the merge, which is something I rarely do but this guy was asking for it. The Volvo has better interior quality even though Lincoln has gotten way better but the only Volvo to match this MKZ is the Inscription which was 15k more, and I couldn't justify that cost. Good review as always, I love Volvo, just not at their price levels.
Awesome car. I've always really likes Volvo's sedans. And I completely agree with the infotainment. Why companies throw their HVAC controls into the touchscreen menus is beyond me. That's the one thing you want separate, and a big reason why I like the VW systems (until they inevitably ruin it). The system in my '15 GTI is great in that regard. All the HVAC controls, defrosting, and seat heating, is separated and below the infotainment. The only thing you use the screen for is music/nav and even then, there are lots of physical buttons so you don't have to rely on a touch screen. I get the whole "we need to modernize everything" corporate mindset, but the infotainment was a big reason I went with a GTI over the Civic Si. That said, love this Volvo. Of the mid to luxury brands, Volvo is definitely back on my list.
Nick Catelli I don't think you've fully understood the "automatic" part of automatic climate control systems... Volvo's have always been particularly good in producing an optimal climate inside your car in the shortest time possible, regardless of if the weather is blazing hot sun or a cold start in freezing cold winter or anything in between. It figures out for itself if it needs to defrost the windows or cool the car with the A/C on full blast, and when it reaches the preset temperature conditions it gradually changes modes, temperatures, air flows and fan settings to maintain it with the least possible intrusion and fan noise. It Just Works. Let it do its job, you won't be able to do it any better regardless of how much manual fiddling with the controls you make.
Nick Catelli I never said it was an excuse. However, how often do you honestly need to fiddle with the controls? I've had a host of vehicles over the years since the late 1980s with automatic climate control, and with maybe one exception they have been excellent at doing their job without any need for me to interfere. I just set the temperature once and for all and go. So, while I do agree in principle - I don't mind infotainment screens but I *hate* touchscreen-only interfaces - your criticism doesn't really feel borne out of practical experience. I touch my climate controls perhaps three-four times a year, when there are some very unusual weather situations that require a little nudge in the right direction, usually upping the temperature a couple of notches if the air is unusually moist for the season for example. Or when the seasons turn chillier, then I like it a bit more cozy inside, as the air gets raw and cold and moist...
@@bennylofgren3208 different strokes I guess. We have two vehicles right now, my GTI gas non-automatic controls, so I touch them all the time. Our Altima has automatic climate, and while I touch them less by far, I still use their functions a fair bit, especially in the winter, what with changing to defrost, where the air is coming from directionally, etc. It's more than just temperature. Plus, I don't want my heated seat controls to be in my infotainment. Maybe I'm just old school, and while I don't mind digital interfaces, I don't think everything should be within then. Physical buttons and separate controls for these functions just makes more sense, if not only for an ease of use circumstance, but more importantly so that core functions aren't bound to software reliant on an LCD screen that could fail and that you trust will last/function the life of the vehicle better than physical knobs or buttons can.
@@Krauser1226 The user interface couldn't be simpler. No need to look at it or move anything other than your right hand thumb to the spoke button on the wheel. Then just say "temperature seventy" and that sir, is what you will almost instantly reset it to. It really is that easy. If that is not to your satisfaction, the heater controls are always on the bottom corners of the screen, even when the screen is turned off. Press by feel and hit the top quarter + or bottom quarter - to alter temperature one degree. Which is all that a climate control system normally requires as adjustment. It does the rest automatically. There are physical buttons by the large volume control knob for quick demist and quick defrost. Never mind that you knew none of this. Comment anyway as if you did. Some may be convinced.
I kind of like the 2000's s60r more. Sleek design. Looks good but not overly aggressive or anything. Glad to see Volvo is still making cool cars though.
You elevate cars in your intros, nice to look at. I don't like how the speedo and tach looks distracting with that blue thing trailing the digital needles. Good to wake up to a video.
Great video, you covered everything quite nicely. Just received my 2019 S60 R Design yesterday. Did you try adjusting the steering wheel force in the drive mode settings? Curious to know your thoughts on what steering resistance you preferred/recommended. Also, it would have been helpful to demonstrate how to use the paddle shifters.
You just pull the paddles to use them, but if you have a T5 or T6 you can also push the shift lever to the left to put it in permanent manual mode. If you have a T8 (or the new T6 PHEV in the EU), you can't put it into permanent manual mode.
Where did end up with your steering settings? Great to have this as an option. I’ve heard lots of contradictory reviews of the steering feel in the S and V60.
Took over a 2020 s60 t6 r design with polestar tune and b&w stereo which was an employee lease so only $530 cad a mo... I'm waiting for the mk8 golf r.. surprised how much I'm falling in love with the s60. Actually debating keeping it vs the R. It's sexy, a sleeper and nit as common as all the Germans you see everywhere in Vancouver Canada!
I absolutely adore the Volvo seats, even in older Volvo cars. You can drive for hundreds of kilometres or miles and you will still arrive to your destination feeling almost as you had just started your trip. At least that's how I experience it. What about you, other Volvo guys? And those seats in the S60/V60... Can seats look any more inviting and comfortable?
Thank you for a great review! But may I ask you why you think that there will be problems down the road and that one should avoid buying it for long term use? What kind of problems more specifically do you think one will face? I am asking as I am thinking of buying this car as a FWD T5 for long term use (around 8 years). Thanks.
It's a great car, reminds me of my Saab 9-3 Aero in design philosophy- simple interior and not too attention grabbing. Pretty quick but not too quick and comfortable but sporty enough for great handling.
Whatcha listening to at 14:46 there? :) Seriously though, I love your videos, thanks for doing this. I'm super excited about the new design direction with Volvo, they're really neat cars. I'm glad you enjoyed it overall.
Having the climate controls all or in part on the screen is a BIG step backwards. As you mention, you always have to wait and/or flip through a screen or two to get to them. Why is this considered an improvement? The only reason I can think of is for the "clean" design. I think the design should work well, which, in my view, trumps the clean design/cost reasons.
Great review and I can see why SG voted this his fave sedan for 2018. That said, I like the G70 reviews as well, especially the handling comments. The new BMW 3 series is also garnering good reviews, so much for the end of sport sedans.
Hey Mark.
Im actually a mechanical engineer who spent crazy amount of hours working on the new S/V60 cars (and other cars at Volvo). Thank you for this review. It makes all the hard work I put into this worth it when I can see that people appreciate it. I can assure you that I did my absolute best engineering without cutting any corners, ever.
I have followed your channel for years and Im always eager to hear your opinion on cars, especially Volvo.
Keep up the good work!
Where do you work and what engineering projects do you get to work on? Thanks. Its good to know people are working hard on this stuff. I do appreciate good work.
SnakePrank I’m sure we’d all appreciate a long interview with senior engineers about the trade offs decisions and any regrets the engineering team has. Honestly Volvo is the most interesting manufacturer to a lot of us.
@@savagegeese During that time I worked in Gothenburg, Sweden (where all the engineering gets done. Geely is "just" the owner) on both the CMA and SPA projects . I was developing the BIW and other car body components.
The guys over at Volvo Cars (and Trucks for that matter) know their stuff. A lot of competent people work there.
@@Zee133 that is interesting. I have a 2018 XC60 and I love the car ... Thinking about the polestar upgrade... Since I didn't get the T6 I wanted to get a better refinement specially on the shifting. What do you think about it?
I'd like to know why the Polestar software isn't installed in Volvos by default, with the option to turn a switch on or off to employ it (or, to have it just be the default software for the transmission shifting).
I just bought one of these CPO with 17k on the ODO, I couldn't agree with you more, its BY FAR the most underrated sedan on the market, and a screaming deal as a CPO.
Also just bought cpo with 15k. So excited to get it registered and on the road.
Yeah, 5yrs unlimited miles is sweet.
Modern actual *cars* have gotten really good. Nicer to drive, nice interiors, etc. They just get overlooked because they aren't the latest crossover.
...and they aren't reliable. Why pay more money (40 grands), for a car with less than 8 years of lifespan and huge value loss after the buy ?
@@boboutelama5748 No different from expensive SUVs or crossovers in that regard.
There is no such thing as an electric steering system with good feel. The Porsche ones come close, but still not very good compared to the hydraulic units in the older ones. @Tom
@@boboutelama5748
There will certainly be a huge loss of value. There always is from new. However your speculation about lifespan is plain silly. Modern cars tend to last longer than ever before in history with better reliability and rustproofing.
What will render these cars obsolete is the rise of electric car popularity. Maybe in ten years time but maybe nearer 20 years.
Sorry, I'm ready to die for this affirmation. Rustproofing is of course better, but we had peak reliability in the car business around the 90's to 2000's. Especially japanese cars had, back then, nearly indestructible mechanics and the very conservative electronics, that helped to make them the collectibles they are today. Try to make 300'000km on a Volksagen Golf or a BMW 315i... the CEO at BMW himself claimed in an interview that "no modern car should live more than 200'000km". @@hedydd2
Volvo's interior is always beyond that of others. I still think the cars made between 2005 to before this interior looked better, but still think this is FAR better then others because it looks clean, it doesn't look like a "boyish" design! it looks like it has class
wow, i had no idea either about the lead spring rear end, let alone a composite spring. Super interesting. Thanks for getting under the car.
Hands down the best review of this car. Thanks for showing the s60 on a hoist. I just bought this car because there are just so damn many of its competitors on the road. Its different, comfortable, capable and safe.
I’ve had mine over a year and I love it!!
I have the fusion red also. I rarely see any new model S60 T6 R-Design's on the road. We Volvo S60 owners stand out from the pack. The A4's, BMW's and Mercedes are so common they are tired....
It was about a year ago I talked to a Volvo mechanic that told me that the reason Volvo went with the Aisin 8spd was that the originally planned ZF 9spd gearbox that was planned turned out "unsatisfactory" and Volvo declined the offer and went to Aisin. Not sure if that really happened but looking at the failure rates of the ZF 9spd in various FCA & Honda products, I'm actually believing that could have been the case.
Back to the S60 - I'm surprised Volvo made a product that is a sporty as it looks even before getting to the S60R or Polestar models. I agree it would be a lease only vehicle because of its new design & complicated tech, but the car overall is a solid effort. Whoever said Chinese ownership would ruin Volvo is probably punching themselves right now, because Volvo is stronger than ever under Geely than its entire history under Ford.
Exactly. And they are FAR more reliable (although they are still far from reliable).
The composite leaf spring looks like a delicious piece of parmesan cheese.
At least it will not rust.
People were always saying Volvo turbos are going to be unreliable. Truth is they're fine. I'm tired of seeing only Audi's and BMW's on the street, I hope people buy this.
I actually like how exclusive Volvo is. I’d prefer if just enough ppl bought it just to keep the brand alive 😂
5yrs gone by I don't think they sold many lol
Just ten seconds into the video I had a feeling it was a Savage Geese production. Truly appreciate the time and effort you put into these videos. 👌🏽👍🏽
I love my e90 BMW for the exact reasons that you dislike this car. All of the controls in the BMW are physical and easy to use. It also has a naturally aspirated straight 6 that is reliable. Too much tech/complication to be fuel efficient in today's modern cars in my opinion. Great review as always sir.
oh man. i love my e90, but i couldn't put up with the NA 330i. too damn slow. got tired of getting overtaken by camrys, sold after 4 months. ive had my 335i for 5 years. the e90 is incredible!
@Stereo Typist haha. Maybe. But not anymore babeh 😎 335i is best
@Homber Sweatson the engines are lol
@Homber Sweatson pffft. Shows what you know.
Volvo is ranked by Direct UK (largest extended warranty company in UK) as one of the top 5 most reliable engine builders vs BMW being ranked in as one bottom worst. Volvo has been building reliable Forced Aspiration engines for decades!
10seconds into the opening add, dropped a like. That's how good savagegeese is.
Volvo makes some amazing stuff. Growing up I had Swedish friends and they always had Volvos. A few 850 turbos a C70 and a few V70Rs they have the best seats in the business and just an overall amazing interior. Even back in the 90s. Enjoyed the video thanks!
The quality of your videos Savage has gone up yet another notch !
The small little details, until the very end of your video, is incredible! Excellent job all around my man...
All of youtubers should learn a few things from you. This is how you make quality videos !
Did anyone else spot the "Bluetooth - Hemorrhoid pain relief" in the instrument cluster? xD
Yeah, nice easter egg. Hopefully those volvo seats were comfortable for him.
Keep doing these easter eggs Mr. Goose!
LMFAO
Good catch @ 12:42
I really appreaciate how he discusses potential reliability. No one discusses that besides Skotty Kilmer. I wish he would discuss it more - especially because his reviews are so in depth. It is so much more important than most people discuss in these videos.
This is the best review I’ve seen, I love my s60 it’s drives like a dream, everyday I can’t wait to drive it
Would love if Volvo did another S60R with a 5 cylinder....
They dont make the 5 cylinder any more. The Polestar s60/v60 was the latest R equivalent. The new S60 is goingbto have a Polestar editiob but it is a PHEV
Agreed, with a little suspension work it was a great car, however, as Alex2 noted, the 5 cylinder engines are gone, the "new" 4's are not as smooth, but at least in T6 form, they put out plenty of power.
Get the S60 Polestar hybrid
I just bought a 2021 CPO R design Polestar Engineered AWD...it is simply my all time favorite car out there right now. Looks,comfort,tech,safety just perfect imo
It wouldn't be a bad idea to add a few shots from driving in snow and sharing observation about advantages and downsides of Haldex.
All in all, professional review as always enjoyable to watch. Thank you SG.
Greeting from Poland and Merry Christmas!
Fine Print: AWD systems
The current Haldex works very well indeed, considering these are all-road cars not off-road cars. Early Haldex versions of years ago used to require a certain amount of wheelspin to engage the rear wheels but all current versions, whichever car brand it is fitted to, starts off from a standstill with rear drive engaged and the ECU anticipates when and where 4wd is required and engages it in fractions of a second, mostly in advance of need.
Only tested the AWD system a little bit once. Works quite well in the snow doing donuts and stuff :D
It's a great day when savagegeese uploads a new car review
The door closing shot makes the cinephile part of my brain light up every time
I loved this review. You give praise where it’s due but you’re not afraid to be brutally honest about the negatives of a car. I will be subscribing so I can see more of your content in the future.
The shot where you attached the camera to the driver door and closed it was amazing. It moved on its own in a very natural way, like it was alive. Would be cool if you could find a camera mount that could replicate that type of motion in a controlled way for one of your "artsier" videos. Great work.
I went through Turbowski withdrawal when he was working in a Vietnamese brothel, but I'm glade he's back. Is it true he's addicted to preparation H . You guys are the best!
I'm a bit of a Volvo fanboy, but I'm not biased. I owned a couple of the old school RWD 4cyl Volvos, which were amazingly stout cars and by far the most comfortable cars I've ever sat in. I'm loving the looks of these new Volvos. I fully expect they don't hold a candle to the old ones in terms of reliability. Back in the day, Volvos were known for robust engineering and excellent safety, but not exactly handsome cars. Nowadays, all the competition have caught up with the safety. Reliability has plummeted. The only thing Volvo has going for it is the styling, which is entirely subjective. I think they have a beautifully restrained elegant look about them and look great. I prioritize reliability and quality over looks and performance stats though. Fortunately for Volvo, I don't think most new car buyers think like I do.
Volvos were great cars until you needed parts. Look too at the history of Volvo. They focused on safety after they were shocked by the early crash tests.
@jonny j Having taken mine apart to do some after-market customizations... I'll just say: These cars are well-built, well-assembled, and very well-designed.
I did get a lease, but only because I really want the fully autonomous & Android-powered 2021 model. ;-)
The tech is quite likely going to be buggy over time... Although I've had zero issues w/ 5K miles in my XC60, but I also manually update the software in mine on a regular basis.
All European premium cars, be it a modern Volvo, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, etc are loaded with tech. And were already expensive to service. It's the downside of anything "premium". If you want cheap and reliable, Honda/Subaru/Toyota/Hyundai/Kia are all making amazing cars.
That said... none of those non-EU imports is going to be nearly as comfortable or pleasing as the EU imports. It's a trade off, just like anything else!
It's really isn't the same company, only in name. The Volvo of old died in 1998, with the 850 and rwd wagons. My 240s may not have anywhere near the performance, but surely match the comfort. I'm sure in the end they will drive three to four times as many miles as this car. 275k on one, 235+ on the other.
Volvo is still ahead on safety. The XC90 has been sold for sixteen years in the UK out of many tens of thousands sold and many thousands crashed, there has not been one single fatality in that time. NOT ONE.
I've no idea why you would have the perception that reliability has plummeted. The new platform has had some minor software glitches that have been subject to several updates, which are free of charge and some added useful extra features, which you expect on every modern newly introduced computerised models of anything these days, from cameras, to laptops, to iPads to cars.
The only ones I would be wary of, but again with no evidence that I should be, would be the hybrid models. These really are a new technology that adds complication. The saving grace being that even if the electric drive fails completely when it gets old, the car can still be used as a conventional gas car.
I agree with everything you posted. Most new car buyers are sheep who are content to but a fridge on wheels.
Freaking love your reviews! Appreciate the depth of coverage; great job!
A couple years later, we now have about 5 years of cars out there with this twin charged motor and it seems to be holding up pretty well. Perhaps more reliability than originally anticipated?
I have been VERY interested in Volvos since this new SPA architecture debuted. I'm pretty confident that the Mrs's next ride will be one. This S60 makes an extremely compelling case for itself. Your thoughts have only served to reaffirm my perceived beliefs about it. Thank you for your content SG!
I hope you can get your hands on the V60 wagon, I'm curious if that is closer to the car than the SUV.
Perfect car to lease. Great review as always. Need to do both the Jag XE and Alfa Giulia 4 cylinder models as a comparison. My Lexus IS is coming off lease soon and this may be in the running.
You r that genuine car reviewer whom other reviewers should learn something..
Another great review. I definitely agree on the interior electronics. I just cannot imagine ever wanting to touch a screen to adjust the AC. I really love how my Mazda 6 is laid out. I have a touch screen, but with the selector wheel and steering wheel controls, I literally never touch it. AC controls are all mechanical and incredibly east to use.
I was sold on this wonderful car, until I went to test drive the last car on my list. The Alfa Romeo Giulia captured my heart, and now almost 4 years later, I'm still in love with it.
Have you ever had any serious problems with the giulia?
@@JasonNelson-lj4oz None.
It looks like this is a total 3-Series killer. Thanks for the technical details! I need that amazing alloy dash element in my life! Very nice interior except for piano gloss black, especially the steering wheel buttons.
Yeah there's piano gloss in the wrong places for sure but the interior is so good that you kind of make the excuse for it.
the dynamics still aren't up to the 3-series being this is fwd/awd. for the non-sports oriented luxury buyer (80% of them), I agree with you. I wonder how wood trim would mesh with such a modern looking interior
Austin Apt
Open pore wood trim is an option on these cars and it looks even more awesome than the silver mesh, especially matched to interior trim other than black. Having said that, some 90 models have a black open pore wood option.
@@papa_pt
Wood options aren't bad. "Linear lime" goes well with black. Or white. "Drift wood" on the other hand, that is just too much. Certainly looks like dead beach wood and what goes with that? :D
+Addictive_LiquoriCe Sand drift Alcantara? Beachstone leather?
Wait...I thought I had something better for this...Tidal blue velour track suit! Fa-get-about-it!
Thank you SavageGeese for another excellent video. I bought a used 2013 S60 T5 in 2016. Had a couple of visits to the dealer. Thats the thing, Europeans vs Japanese, long life quality. Had Honda /Acura for more that 25 years: so smooth nothing. But When you sit and drive the S60, man this wows you compared to others. Keep them reviews, we need them ! :-)
Mr Goose: In WWII many aircraft were coumpound-charged. The old farts I’ve talked to mostly refer to it as turbo-supercharged...If you want to add it to your repertiore, it might smooth out your delivery...As always, keep up the great work.
I don't get it. My 2017 XC90 has never had any lag and hardly takes any time to boot up. It has all the toys too, so its no low-rent budget model.
The more you use the infotainment the more you appreciate the voice and steering wheel controls and the less time you use the touchscreen.
My XC90 also has the transverse plastic leaf spring and I have zero complaints about it apart from the fact that road noise in the cabin could be better insulated.
Mine is the D5 turbodiesel and it pulls like a train with superb power and torque and is nice and quiet. I also regularly get between 38 and 42 mpg imperial. Thats 32 to 35 USmpg. The Aisin transmission is fitted to the Audi Q7 and has been back to 6 speed days, on diesel models. I know this is a front wheel drive model but the power flow through the transmission is near identical apart from the deletion of one brake pack to be replaced by a shorter shaft and a brake band.
Try a Polestar upgrade for a sharper transmission with more predictive and intuitive downchanging.
I don't get this praise of voice commands... I've yet to see any car where the voice commands work very well at all; they tend to be so frustrating that many people (including myself) never use them... And, if you're talking to somebody in the car or on the phone, or listening to music, or doing something else, you don't want to use some hit-or-miss computer voice system to try to do something that you should be able to do with simple buttons/knobs.
Dan Green
All you need do to get relevant phrases that it understands is to ask "help". Try it for temperature control first, where it is infallible. Just say "temperature 23" [if Celcius]].
I do not use it for the phone, because or precise navigation in Wales, because it doesn’t do Welsh names, so it certainly has limitations. It’s great for choosing FM or DAB but then I toggle through pre-set stations which are in order, by using the steering wheel or controls either side of the volume knob below the screen. When it really isn’t convenient to use voice control, there are alternatives. There’s the pop-up menu on the dash, controlled by the steering wheel buttons, or indeed there is the Sensus screen itself. Anything other than basic settings are best done when parked, although HVAC alterations are dead simple once you’ve used. It a few times, although it’s so simple to use voice, I seldom do.
I can understand that some people will just not adapt to this kind of control system and that therefore this series of Volvo and cars like it are just not for them. Personally I find it simple, intuitive and far less detracting from driving the car than physical controls spread over the dashboard.
Your intros are spectacular to say the least.
Simultaneous update from the savagest of geese and the straight pipes. It's gonna be a good Friday morning at work :D
I really enjoy your driving segments and examining the cars underneath. This is what separates you from the others along with the cinematography. Great work as always!
I love your videos, I always fall asleep before the end! Your voice is so relaxing!
Just can't stop laughing at the Hemorrhoid Pain relief on the bluetooth on the center instrument display.
I just picked up a 2019 S60 T6 R-Design CPO with 10k miles, loaded to the gills with every option! I get so many looks, very sharp and clean!
Same here, someone approaches me almost daily to comment on the car.
@@Landrenk "Wow that's a Volvo?"
Great synopsis on the new S60. I don't think I would personally be interested in any volvo there is just way too much going on but cars will always have the advantage over an SUV. I hope people will start seeing that more and more. This touchscreen obsession is also a problem, in my G80 climate controls take forever to load
I love the look of this car, very modern and the paint catches eyes. Seems like a manual would be great in this car.
Got a manual in my 92 240, not happening in a new Volvo
Why do the Volvo owners of old on here think anyone gives a shit how their old Volvo is amazing WE DONT CARE Take the Volvo purist bullshit to your Volvo praising Volvo groups!
Europe gets a manual V60. how's that?
Not necessarily; I think an automatic suits the Volvo relaxed driving style better, if the software is done correctly.
@@deaf2819 seems like you care, enjoy your car in warranty
I absolutely love the way this car looks. Inside and out
You can call me a dinosaur, but I so dislike this trend of downsizing, I can't tell! You look at beautifully looking exteriors and what you get is 2l 4-poppers with different softwares for different horsepowers. It makes me loose my hair, of which I already have so few. ARRRRGGGGHH! Makes me hope to keep my car as long as technically possible, because there will be no replacement. And be it politically incorrect, I don't give a ©®¥£¤⊙. Enjoying every second in my 5.5l Biturbo V8 and treating it as my PRECIOUS....
And I'm not even american, best wishes from Austria, folks, and have a merry christmas.
Thank you again, Marc, for your great videos, which are well appreciated here by your european fanbase. :)
Volvo have utilized forced induction in their family cars more than any other manufacturer has in the past 50 years, and the engines in those cars have been some of the most reliable engines ever made. The polestar version of this 2l can already push 362hp from the factory (more HP per liter than a Mclaren 720S), so I'm sure they know what they are doing reliability wise.
neighbor had one. looks amazing in white. sends a elegant yet powerful look.
I drive the V60 right now and waiting till the end of the lease to switch into this. THX for the informations.
The beauty of the plastic transverse leaf spring is that it is intrinsically an anti-roll device, which means that it not only replaces individual springs but also the complete anti-roll bar system.
Trying to understand your point regarding the engine. It sounded like you were saying that the T6 with the turbo and supercharger could be future problems. However, what do you think of the T5 which only has the turbo? Do you think that model is better with less/no future problems?
Your videography game is savage! Keep telling it how it is.
I just bought one of these two days ago. I hope it ends up being reliable because I'm instantly in love with it and would love to eventually buy it out
Hows it going 1 year on?
I love how you hold the steering wheel - just like my beloved 98 year old grandma.
by the way bro the "Bowers & Wilkins" system is designed by Harman under a licensing agreement. i looked up schematic for the base Harman system and the upgrade B&W system and sure enough it's the same system with an extra tweeter in the middle. of course i'm sure Harman de-tuned the system in the base variant to make B&W branded system sound better by comparison. i have no problem with this or even with Harman charging $3,000 extra for the same exact system but with a different name - this is basic market segmentation - similar to how "Jordan" sneakers are made by Nike or how Yeezys are made by Adidas. The reason i have no problem with this is because Nike, Adidas and Harman all make good product but some people simply must pay double because they're better than the rest of us. in the audio industry when you want to upcharge you change the color of speaker cones and make the tweeter look funky - then you can make it sound more expensive with DSP settings and charge double for the same system. this isn't even as much a ripoff as charging extra $10,000 for yellow seatbelts and "polestar" badge with a mild engine tune and maybe $1,000 worth of chassis and suspension upgrades.
Love cars and love good cinematography. Your videos provide something special and unique to the car reviewing industry. Thank you
My 1998 Volvo S90 has the composite rear leaf. Interesting to see it on such a new platform.
I am *so glad* that your prior concerns about driving dynamics and power delivery from Volvo's T+S 4 are resolved in this smaller, lower iteration of the platform. I've been drooling over the V60 since the press photos were released, and with this review I feel confident that it'll be a great drive with little compromise. Currently driving a Saab 9-3 Aero wagon (one in a long line of wagons and hatchbacks) that's a nose-heavy beast, but still fun to toss around on winding roads, with the added bonus of hauling a ton of sh*t when needed. I enjoyed the underbody walk through and appreciate comments on consistency of build quality. They got most things right for me, so I think I can forgive the touch UI for climate controls. Great review, as always, SG!
These cars look GREAT! I'd look into buying one of these in a few years, but so much technology in these cars, not sure it will hold up year 4-5-6 of owner ship like my honda accord is :/
That's always been my concern. I own a Toyota for a reason: I like to keep my cars for years.
Just wait a few years and see how their reliability is rated as some example reach high mileage, especially in terms of engine and transmission. Probably would be more reliable to get the simple turbo engine. The lower spec/lower powered versions will likely be the most reliable.
5 and 6 years may be in if you don't drive too much miles. Modern cars tend to fall apart at 170'000km. Before of that, you could go slip through the gremlins (but not warranted).
@@boboutelama5748 I do too much driving for vehicles like this unfortunately ha. I bought my 2016 4Runner less than 19 months ago and I'm closing in on 55K miles. I bought it brand new.
Buy Japanese, lease European.
And the best part is; it also comes as a station (V60) 🙄
The V60 T6 wagon is at the top of my list for sure. Bee-youtiful design and smart engineering. Volvo is BACK!
One of the best reviews,love the colour.
The design is super classy and the Aisin transmission is a huge plus. Time will tell if that tiny turbo four-pot can hold up.
Thank you for this review! I bought my 2017 S90 largely on the basis of your recommendation, and have not been disappointed at all. This car, however, is calling to me, and I am excited to test drive it when it comes to my local dealer. I have to ask you, though, how did you manage to get this car somewhere in the Northern Central part of the country (I'm guessing), when everyone else had it in California? And thank you for not wasting my time with a review of the Polestar Engineered version, a 20 car run that sold out in less than an hour, so why would we want to hear about it?
I just bought a 2021 S60 R-DESIGN which was a CPO with less than 30k on the odo and I can't get enough of driving it. It's easily the nicest car I've ever owned and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. The only thing lacking in my car is the B&W audio system. Seats are fantastic and so comfortable. The Harman Kardon sound system is great despite it not having the fancy stuff. Didnt get the flappy paddles and don't think they're needed.
If this is Volvo going forward, they're set for a bright future. Until i have serious issues, I'd highly recommend this car as an alternative to the usual Germans (and i say this as a former BMW owner).
Getting simultaneous notifications about TheStraightPipes and Savagegeese at the same time 😵😵
Great review it's funny how the foreign companies are making cars in America and the domestic isn't shows in the quality of the build.
GM and Ford are trash, it shows in the quality of their cars inside and out and over the long term.
The US domestic brands are building in the US, too, but they are compelled to use UAW staff and therefore the quality is shit. The foreign makes don't have history with the UAW and can thus build in right-to work states, and the quality is better.
Unions are good, but the UAW is a boat anchor and should be avoided by both business and labor alike.
Another great video to watch in the morning. Love this channel.
And it looks like Volvo made a decent one here. I'd love to take a listen to that audio system.
Some years back I watched in dismay as GM destroyed my favorite auto manufacturer, Saab. Ford hadn't managed to do the same with Volvo at that point but when they sold the automobile division to a Chinese firm I figured the same fate awaited it. Was I wrong! Geely has done a magnificent job in not only saving a great marque but in infusing the brand with style and technology that Volvo never had in the past. Kudos!
Stephen Hendricks Zheijang (sp?) Holdings involvement in what you see is money and NOT getting in the way of designers and engineers. What you see is nota Chinese car. It is a wholly Swedish car. Ford put a leash on Volvo, the new owners only ask for return on investment.
Dude, Saab destroyed themselves. Maybe they should have learned how to NOT run a car company into the ground.
@@nodak81 In the 1990's virtually every small volume automaker faced huge challenges to their survival in an era of globalization and consolidation. Every one of those manufacturers was eventually absorbed by much larger international manufacturers. It was Saab's misfortune to be acquired by GM, a company whose mismanagement and talent at "running a car company into the ground" dwarfed that of virtually every automaker in the world.
@@nodak81 no they didnt, GM fucked them over. Even when the restructured SAAB tried to rebuild the 9-3 and 9-5, GM refused to sell them parts. Read please.
The S60 was in my short list, I bought the new Lincoln MKZ with AWD and the 3.0 twin turbo making 400/400 and while I wish Lincoln had moved to the bigger screens I am in love with the hot rod Lincoln. A poor kid in a new V6 camaro found out the new Lincoln had more going than he expected, I smoked him to the merge, which is something I rarely do but this guy was asking for it. The Volvo has better interior quality even though Lincoln has gotten way better but the only Volvo to match this MKZ is the Inscription which was 15k more, and I couldn't justify that cost. Good review as always, I love Volvo, just not at their price levels.
Swedish engineering at its finest
Built in SC... Hopefully they will do more great things.
BASITH PH they're not Swedish anymore their owned by the Chinese
@@MajorGainz-704 owned and designed are two different things. all of the design and engineering work was done in Sweden
Volvo is still Volvo, just Chinese money.
Kareem Kirton that’s like saying the Nissan GTR is French.
Awesome car. I've always really likes Volvo's sedans. And I completely agree with the infotainment. Why companies throw their HVAC controls into the touchscreen menus is beyond me. That's the one thing you want separate, and a big reason why I like the VW systems (until they inevitably ruin it). The system in my '15 GTI is great in that regard. All the HVAC controls, defrosting, and seat heating, is separated and below the infotainment. The only thing you use the screen for is music/nav and even then, there are lots of physical buttons so you don't have to rely on a touch screen. I get the whole "we need to modernize everything" corporate mindset, but the infotainment was a big reason I went with a GTI over the Civic Si.
That said, love this Volvo. Of the mid to luxury brands, Volvo is definitely back on my list.
Nick Catelli I don't think you've fully understood the "automatic" part of automatic climate control systems... Volvo's have always been particularly good in producing an optimal climate inside your car in the shortest time possible, regardless of if the weather is blazing hot sun or a cold start in freezing cold winter or anything in between. It figures out for itself if it needs to defrost the windows or cool the car with the A/C on full blast, and when it reaches the preset temperature conditions it gradually changes modes, temperatures, air flows and fan settings to maintain it with the least possible intrusion and fan noise. It Just Works. Let it do its job, you won't be able to do it any better regardless of how much manual fiddling with the controls you make.
@@bennylofgren3208 I "understand" automatic climate control. Having automatic climate control isn't an excuse for poor UI and system integration.
Nick Catelli I never said it was an excuse. However, how often do you honestly need to fiddle with the controls? I've had a host of vehicles over the years since the late 1980s with automatic climate control, and with maybe one exception they have been excellent at doing their job without any need for me to interfere. I just set the temperature once and for all and go.
So, while I do agree in principle - I don't mind infotainment screens but I *hate* touchscreen-only interfaces - your criticism doesn't really feel borne out of practical experience. I touch my climate controls perhaps three-four times a year, when there are some very unusual weather situations that require a little nudge in the right direction, usually upping the temperature a couple of notches if the air is unusually moist for the season for example. Or when the seasons turn chillier, then I like it a bit more cozy inside, as the air gets raw and cold and moist...
@@bennylofgren3208 different strokes I guess. We have two vehicles right now, my GTI gas non-automatic controls, so I touch them all the time. Our Altima has automatic climate, and while I touch them less by far, I still use their functions a fair bit, especially in the winter, what with changing to defrost, where the air is coming from directionally, etc. It's more than just temperature. Plus, I don't want my heated seat controls to be in my infotainment. Maybe I'm just old school, and while I don't mind digital interfaces, I don't think everything should be within then. Physical buttons and separate controls for these functions just makes more sense, if not only for an ease of use circumstance, but more importantly so that core functions aren't bound to software reliant on an LCD screen that could fail and that you trust will last/function the life of the vehicle better than physical knobs or buttons can.
@@Krauser1226
The user interface couldn't be simpler. No need to look at it or move anything other than your right hand thumb to the spoke button on the wheel. Then just say "temperature seventy" and that sir, is what you will almost instantly reset it to. It really is that easy.
If that is not to your satisfaction, the heater controls are always on the bottom corners of the screen, even when the screen is turned off. Press by feel and hit the top quarter + or bottom quarter - to alter temperature one degree. Which is all that a climate control system normally requires as adjustment. It does the rest automatically. There are physical buttons by the large volume control knob for quick demist and quick defrost.
Never mind that you knew none of this. Comment anyway as if you did. Some may be convinced.
I kind of like the 2000's s60r more. Sleek design. Looks good but not overly aggressive or anything.
Glad to see Volvo is still making cool cars though.
Would have been an awesome machine if it had an inline-five
Still a beautiful car tho
right, the engine sounds unspectacular. My 2005 inline 5 2.4L motor sounds better, but has a bit poor low end power.
I test drove this though and was impressed with the higher trim. What I didn’t like was the automatic.
Stunning intro on this one
How about making a list of songs of the soundtrack of your videos available on Spotify?
Good insightful video, as always.
You elevate cars in your intros, nice to look at. I don't like how the speedo and tach looks distracting with that blue thing trailing the digital needles.
Good to wake up to a video.
i love this channel.. should have so many more subs and so much more attention
Great video, you covered everything quite nicely. Just received my 2019 S60 R Design yesterday. Did you try adjusting the steering wheel force in the drive mode settings? Curious to know your thoughts on what steering resistance you preferred/recommended. Also, it would have been helpful to demonstrate how to use the paddle shifters.
You just pull the paddles to use them, but if you have a T5 or T6 you can also push the shift lever to the left to put it in permanent manual mode. If you have a T8 (or the new T6 PHEV in the EU), you can't put it into permanent manual mode.
Where did end up with your steering settings? Great to have this as an option. I’ve heard lots of contradictory reviews of the steering feel in the S and V60.
Solid review as always. This car looks really good! I might wanna look into it more.
Took over a 2020 s60 t6 r design with polestar tune and b&w stereo which was an employee lease so only $530 cad a mo... I'm waiting for the mk8 golf r.. surprised how much I'm falling in love with the s60. Actually debating keeping it vs the R. It's sexy, a sleeper and nit as common as all the Germans you see everywhere in Vancouver Canada!
Wellllll?
I absolutely adore the Volvo seats, even in older Volvo cars. You can drive for hundreds of kilometres or miles and you will still arrive to your destination feeling almost as you had just started your trip. At least that's how I experience it. What about you, other Volvo guys? And those seats in the S60/V60... Can seats look any more inviting and comfortable?
why does anyone else even bother , , , to review cars? SG DOMINATES!!
Volvo are moving to the right direction but only time will till if their reliability improved specially with the completed engine, excellent video !
Thank you for a great review! But may I ask you why you think that there will be problems down the road and that one should avoid buying it for long term use? What kind of problems more specifically do you think one will face? I am asking as I am thinking of buying this car as a FWD T5 for long term use (around 8 years). Thanks.
It's a great car, reminds me of my Saab 9-3 Aero in design philosophy- simple interior and not too attention grabbing. Pretty quick but not too quick and comfortable but sporty enough for great handling.
Great review!
I have one request....please do a detailed review for Focus ST
Volvo has changed a lot since my 1984 volvo 240 gl. wow
Volvos up until about 94 and now since about 2015 have been great. I don't really care for those in between, the V70 and XC70 for example were hideous
Yeah, for the worse.
Every company has since 1984 are all the owners of old Volvo’s all this stupid?
@@envispojke Hmm. Really? I think my 2005 Volvo V70 is one of the best Volvo wagon designs ever. The XC70 is different.
David T yup I'm pretty stupid. Happy Holidays!
Whatcha listening to at 14:46 there? :) Seriously though, I love your videos, thanks for doing this. I'm super excited about the new design direction with Volvo, they're really neat cars. I'm glad you enjoyed it overall.
Great video, what about S60 T5 or T4 models are they good for long-term ownership? Thinking to buy and own one next year.
First time catching one of your reviews. You've done a fantastic job with the voiceovers and production quality. Nice review!
Always fantastic reviews. This is a little off topic but who did the music for the introduction? It's great.
Having the climate controls all or in part on the screen is a BIG step backwards. As you mention, you always have to wait and/or flip through a screen or two to get to them. Why is this considered an improvement? The only reason I can think of is for the "clean" design. I think the design should work well, which, in my view, trumps the clean design/cost reasons.
The Carolinas are a great place to do business. Charlotte is exploding so i hope more international companies will set up facilities here.
Great review and I can see why SG voted this his fave sedan for 2018. That said, I like the G70 reviews as well, especially the handling comments. The new BMW 3 series is also garnering good reviews, so much for the end of sport sedans.
Do you know if there is a big difference on the drivetrain/powertrain from this model to the prior few years?
Awesome video, as usual. You guys rock. Do you guys have a new out-to lined up for "season two"? (Your intros seem to change often enough)
Just leased a XC60 T6 R-Design. It also has air suspension and heated/cooled massage seats.
Great review as usual.
Can you review the Jaguar XF Sportbrake please?
I'm trying to decide between the V60 or the Sportbrake.