2016-2018 Volvo S60 Inscription FWD 2.0L

Overview

The Volvo S60 Inscription represents a distinct chapter in the history of the Swedish automaker’s mid-size sedan offerings. Introduced to the North American market for the 2016 model year, the Inscription trim was specifically engineered to cater to consumers seeking an extended-wheelbase variant of the S60. By increasing the wheelbase by 3.4 inches compared to the standard S60, Volvo provided significantly more rear-seat legroom, effectively positioning the vehicle as a luxury-focused alternative for those who prioritized passenger comfort without moving up to the larger S80 or S90 models.

Manufactured at the Chengdu plant in China, the S60 Inscription was a notable example of globalized automotive production, being the first vehicle from a European brand to be exported from China to the United States. It utilized the Ford-derived P3 platform, which provided a stable and comfortable ride quality consistent with Volvo’s reputation for safety and ergonomics. The powertrain for the front-wheel-drive Inscription featured the Drive-E 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, balancing efficiency with adequate power for daily commuting.

The Inscription trim level was distinguished by its unique exterior styling cues, including additional chrome accents, specialized 19-inch alloy wheels, and a more refined interior finish. While the standard S60 focused on a sportier driving dynamic, the Inscription leaned into the traditional Volvo values of comfort, quiet cabin isolation, and high-quality materials. It remained a niche offering in the S60 lineup until the model transition toward the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, which eventually replaced the P3-based sedans.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	S60 Inscription FWD
Model Year	2016-2018
Generation	3rd (P3 Platform)
Trim	Inscription
Body Style	4-Door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Compact Executive
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	P3
Assembly Plant	Chengdu, China
Country of Origin	China
Production Start	2016
Production End	2018
VIN Identifier	YV1
Base MSRP	$38,700
Destination Charge	$995
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	ICE
Engine Family	Drive-E
Engine Name	T5
Engine Code	B4204T11
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.0 mm x 93.2 mm
Compression Ratio	10.8:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-Valve
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	5.9 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	0W-20
Horsepower	240 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque	258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	3.33:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	25
EPA Highway MPG	36
EPA Combined MPG	29
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	8.1
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	17.8
Estimated Driving Range	510 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,550
CO₂ Emissions	306 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	6
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.6 s
0-60 mph	6.1 s
0-100 mph	15.8 s
Quarter Mile	14.6 s
Top Speed	130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	122 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.84g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	14.6 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	182.5
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	73.4
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	82.5
Height (in)	58.4
Wheelbase (in)	111.5
Front Track (in)	62.3
Rear Track (in)	62.2
Ground Clearance (in)	5.3
Curb Weight (lbs)	3505
GVWR (lbs)	4630
Towing Capacity (lbs)	3300
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1125
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	95.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	12.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	37.1 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick+
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	7-inch
Instrument Cluster	Digital
Apple CarPlay	Optional
Android Auto	Optional
Navigation System	Standard
Audio System	Harman Kardon
Speaker Count	12
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Yes
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / Unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	4 years / Unlimited miles
Complimentary Maintenance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 5.25, 2nd: 3.03, 3rd: 1.95, 4th: 1.46, 5th: 1.22, 6th: 1.00, 7th: 0.81, 8th: 0.67
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.5 qts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volvo S60 Inscription is widely regarded as a comfortable, high-value choice in the used luxury sedan market, particularly for buyers who prioritize rear-seat space and a refined ride over aggressive handling. Reliability is generally solid for the Drive-E powertrain, though prospective owners should verify that the timing belt and PCV system maintenance have been addressed, as these are known service points for high-mileage examples. The interior remains a highlight, featuring Volvo’s signature ergonomic seating and high-quality materials that have aged better than many of its German contemporaries. While the infotainment system feels dated by modern standards, the inclusion of standard navigation and premium audio makes it a compelling daily driver for those seeking a safe, understated, and practical executive sedan.