Overview
The Volvo S60 Inscription represents a specific focus within the third generation of the S60 sedan, marketed primarily to consumers seeking increased rear-seat legroom and a more refined, luxury-oriented aesthetic. Introduced as a long-wheelbase variant, the Inscription trim was designed to bridge the gap between the standard S60 and the larger S90, offering an additional 3.4 inches of rear legroom compared to the base model. This configuration was manufactured in Chengdu, China, and exported to the North American market to satisfy demand for executive-style rear accommodations in a compact footprint.
Under the hood, the 2017-2018 S60 Inscription utilizes Volvo’s Drive-E powertrain architecture. This 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine emphasizes efficiency and power density, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The vehicle maintains the brand’s commitment to safety, incorporating a suite of driver-assistance technologies that were standard for the era. While the S60 platform itself dates back to 2010, the Inscription trim provided a refreshed appeal during the final years of this generation before the transition to the SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 Inscription AWD |
| Model Year | 2017-2018 |
| Generation | 3rd (Long Wheelbase) |
| 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 | $39,000 |
| Destination Charge | $995 |
| Total MSRP | – |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | ICE |
| Engine Family | Drive-E |
| Engine Name | B4204T11 |
| Engine Code | – |
| 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 Quarts |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | 0W-20 |
| Horsepower | 240 hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
| Redline | 6500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 87 |
| EPA City MPG | 22 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 32 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 25 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 9.4 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 17.8 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 445 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $2,100 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 350 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 5 |
| Smog Rating | 5 |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | 2.6 s |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 s |
| 0-100 mph | 16.5 s |
| Quarter Mile | 14.8 s |
| Top Speed | 130 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 122 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.84 g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 0.06 hp/lb |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 188.5 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 73.4 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | 82.5 |
| Height (in) | 58.4 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 111.5 |
| Front Track (in) | 62.2 |
| Rear Track (in) | 62.0 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 5.3 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,850 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4,800 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 3,500 |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 950 |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 96.0 |
| 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 | 5 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 | – |
| Differential Type | Haldex AWD |
| Cooling System Capacity | 9.5 Quarts |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 165 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The Volvo S60 Inscription is recognized in the used market for its exceptional ride comfort and high-quality interior materials, which distinguish it from the standard-wheelbase S60. Reliability is generally consistent with the P3 platform, though owners should monitor the Drive-E engine for potential oil consumption issues and ensure the timing belt service intervals are strictly followed. The Aisin-sourced eight-speed transmission is robust, though periodic fluid changes are recommended to maintain smooth operation. As a used purchase, the Inscription offers significant value for those prioritizing rear-seat space and safety features over the latest infotainment interfaces, which may feel dated compared to newer models. Prospective buyers should verify that the specific vehicle has received all relevant software updates for the Sensus infotainment system to ensure optimal connectivity.
