The Volvo S60 III 2.0 B6 (299 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic represents a significant step in Volvo’s commitment to electrified performance and Scandinavian luxury. Produced from 2020 to 2021, this variant occupied a mid-to-upper position within the third-generation S60 (introduced in 2018) lineup, offering a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and all-weather capability. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, shared with larger Volvo models like the XC60 and XC90, the S60 III aimed to compete with established German rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, while offering a distinctively Swedish aesthetic and safety focus.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 B6 (299 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 12.2-13.0 l/100 km (19.3 – 18.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 8.2-9.3 l/100 km (28.7 – 25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 6.5-7.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.7-8.4 l/100 km (35.1 – 28 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.6-8.9 l/100 km (30.9 – 26.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 173-203 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 6.7-6.9 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 152-156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 14 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 40 Nm (29.5 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 299 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2100-4800 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 2100-4800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81.99 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.19 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 391 l (13.81 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4761 mm (187.44 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1916 mm (75.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 in.) |
| Height | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2872 mm (113.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1593-1603 mm (62.72 – 63.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1593-1603 mm (62.72 – 63.11 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm (5.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4-12.1 m (37.4 – 39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive front wheels, rear drive via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Geartronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 322-371 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 320 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 III B6 is Volvo’s 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four cylinder engine, designated the B4204T29. This engine is part of Volvo’s Drive-E family, known for its modularity and efficiency. The addition of both a turbocharger and a supercharger provides a broad torque curve and minimizes turbo lag, delivering responsive acceleration. Direct fuel injection further enhances efficiency and power output. The “B6” designation indicates a power output of 299 horsepower and 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque. Crucially, this engine is paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This system utilizes a small electric motor and battery to provide a power boost during acceleration, recover energy during braking (regenerative braking), and enable smoother start/stop functionality. The 8-speed automatic transmission, branded “Geartronic,” is a conventional torque-converter automatic, optimized for smooth shifts and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The S60 III B6 Automatic offers a refined and capable driving experience. The combination of turbocharging, supercharging, and the mild hybrid system results in strong acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and timely gear changes, although it isn’t as overtly sporty as some dual-clutch transmissions found in competitors. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with inclement weather. Compared to lower-powered S60 variants (like the T5), the B6 offers a noticeably more engaging driving experience. While not as fuel-efficient as the plug-in hybrid T8 Recharge, the B6 provides a good balance between performance and economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 III B6 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position in the lineup. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Safety features were, as expected from Volvo, comprehensive, including automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems (Bowers & Wilkins), ventilated and massaging front seats, and a head-up display. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 III utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. A transverse stabilizer bar is fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. Brakes are discs all around, with larger front discs (322-371mm) than rear discs (320mm) to handle the increased stopping power. The electric power steering provides a light and precise feel. The chassis is tuned to prioritize comfort and stability, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 III B6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, strong performance, and comprehensive safety features. However, some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be complex to navigate and that the ride, while comfortable, wasn’t as engaging as some competitors. Compared to the base T5 model, the B6 offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price. Against rivals like the BMW 330i and Audi A4 45 TFSI, the S60 B6 offered a compelling alternative, particularly for buyers prioritizing safety and Scandinavian design.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 III B6 represents a transitional point in Volvo’s powertrain strategy, bridging the gap between traditional internal combustion engines and fully electrified vehicles. The 2.0-liter B4204T29 engine, while no longer in production, has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, the S60 III B6 holds its value reasonably well, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage. Its combination of performance, luxury, and safety continues to appeal to buyers seeking a premium sedan with a distinctive character.
