When it comes to safety, no automobile manufacturer can hold a candle to Volvo. With their 2012 S60, the popular brand added some real character and a lot of great features, too. If you want a sedan that compares well with the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or the BMW 3 Series, but without the same price tag, consider the S60.
Key Features
The rear-seat entertainment features are one of the best indicators that Volvo is ready to have some more fun with its vehicles. Seven-inch displays, dual DVD players and wireless headphones make it easy for your backseat passengers to enjoy themselves.
Another high-tech feature you’re bound to love is the front camera system. The 180-degree view it offers is a safety feature you’ll never be able to live without once you experience it.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 model comes after Volvo did a major redesign the year before. Still, this line of vehicles features two new options—an entry level S60 with a turbocharged engine and a sportier option.
This model is also the first to have the entertainment system in back.
What We Like
It’s easy to love the entertainment system with its LCD displays, but you won’t be seeing much of it if you usually drive.
Instead, you should look forward to the suspension system on the 2012 S60, one that was designed with Volvo’s German competitors in mind.
The seats of the 2012 Volvo are also both ergonomic and plenty comfortable. This is an incredibly safe car too, which is something everyone can appreciate. Between the cameras, the airbags and the “City Safety” features, the S60 shows why so many will only entrust their families to Volvo.
What Concerns Us
For those who like sedans that can really attack the road, Volvo still loses out to Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Available Models
There are three models of the 2012 S60: the T5, T6 and T6 redesign. The first gets 20/30 mpg and has 250hp@5,500rpm. The T6 comes in at 18/26 mpg, but has 300hp@5,600rpm. Finally, the T6 redesign also gets 18/26 mpg, but is good for 325hp@6500 rpm.
Major Recalls
The 2012 S60 has been recalled a few times. In 2012, it was recalled because of issues with the front and side airbags that meant they could deploy incorrectly or not at all. That same year, another recall was issued because an erroneous mixture of a coating used on some of the vehicles threatened to cause fuel leakages which would result in fires. Then, in 2013, it was found that some vehicles were not able to alert drivers when oil pressure had gotten too low. This meant people would drive until their S60 unexpectedly stalled out.
Common Issues
There are no major issues associated with this vehicle. Most drivers swear by theirs.
