Overview

The Volvo S60, introduced as a successor to the S70, represented a departure from the boxy design language that defined the brand throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Launched for the 2001 model year, the S60 utilized the Volvo P2 platform, which it shared with the S80 sedan and V70 wagon. By the 2005-2008 period, the S60 had undergone a mid-cycle refresh that introduced updated styling, including revised headlamps, a smoother grille, and body-colored trim, aligning it with the brand’s contemporary aesthetic.

Positioned as a premium compact executive sedan, the S60 was engineered to compete against established German rivals. The 2.4-liter naturally aspirated five-cylinder engine served as the entry-level powertrain for the North American market. Known for its distinct exhaust note and smooth power delivery, this engine emphasized reliability and efficiency over high-performance output. The vehicle was manufactured primarily at the Torslanda plant in Gothenburg, Sweden, and maintained Volvo’s reputation for occupant safety, featuring a rigid safety cage and a comprehensive suite of airbags.

Throughout its production run, the S60 was recognized for its comfortable interior, ergonomic seating, and focus on long-distance touring capabilities. While it lacked the aggressive handling characteristics of some sport-oriented competitors, it offered a balanced ride quality that appealed to professionals and families. The 2005-2008 models remain notable for their build quality and the transition toward more modern electronic systems, marking the final years of the first-generation S60 before the introduction of the second generation in 2010.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volvo
Model S60 FWD
Model Year 2005-2008
Generation 1st Generation (P2)
Trim 2.4
Body Style 4-door Sedan
Vehicle Segment Compact Executive
Vehicle Class Compact Cars
Market USA
Platform Volvo P2
Assembly Plant Torslanda, Sweden
Country of Origin Sweden
Production Start 2000
Production End 2009
VIN Identifier YV1
Base MSRP $28,000
Destination Charge $745
Total MSRP
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name B5244S
Engine Code
Engine Configuration Inline-5
Displacement 2.4 Liters
Bore x Stroke 83 mm x 90 mm
Compression Ratio 10.3:1
Aspiration Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery Multi-point Fuel Injection
Valve Train DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 6.1 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity 5W-30
Horsepower 168 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Redline 6500 rpm
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission Manual 6-spd
Final Drive Ratio
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91
EPA City MPG 18
EPA Highway MPG 26
EPA Combined MPG 21
Fuel Economy (L/100 km) 11.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 18.0
Estimated Driving Range 378 miles
Annual Fuel Cost
CO₂ Emissions
Greenhouse Gas Score
Smog Rating
Performance
0-30 mph
0-60 mph 8.5 seconds
0-100 mph
Quarter Mile
Top Speed 130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 132 ft
Lateral Acceleration 0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 180.3
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 71.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in)
Height (in) 56.2
Wheelbase (in) 106.9
Front Track (in) 61.4
Rear Track (in) 61.2
Ground Clearance (in) 5.4
Curb Weight (lbs) 3250
GVWR (lbs) 4300
Towing Capacity (lbs) 3300
Payload Capacity (lbs)
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 93.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 13.9
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)
Turning Circle 35.8 ft
Approach Angle
Departure Angle
Breakover Angle
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating
NHTSA Frontal Crash
NHTSA Side Crash
NHTSA Rollover
IIHS Award
Small Overlap Front
Moderate Overlap Front Good
Side Impact Good
Headlights Rating
Front Crash Prevention
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display
Instrument Cluster Analog
Apple CarPlay No
Android Auto No
Navigation System Optional
Audio System Volvo Premium Sound
Speaker Count 6
Wireless Charging No
Wi-Fi Hotspot No
OTA Updates No
Digital Key No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty 4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty 8 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance 4 years / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance 3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier Aisin
Gear Ratios
Differential Type Open
Cooling System Capacity 8.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2005-2008 Volvo S60 2.4L is viewed in the used car market as a durable, comfortable, and safe entry-level luxury sedan. Its naturally aspirated five-cylinder engine is generally considered more reliable than the turbocharged variants due to reduced thermal stress and simpler plumbing. However, prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented maintenance histories, specifically regarding timing belt replacements, which are critical at recommended intervals. Common issues include electronic throttle module (ETM) failures, suspension bushing wear, and minor electrical gremlins typical of this era of Volvo manufacturing. While it lacks the modern connectivity features found in contemporary vehicles, its seats remain among the most comfortable in the industry, and its crash-test performance continues to provide peace of mind for budget-conscious buyers seeking a secure daily driver.

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