2013 Volvo S60 vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 8.4 out of 10

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Our expert editors build comparisons like this one to make it easy for you to understand the small handful of cars you should compare to whatever car you are already looking at. You get general thoughts on each car you should consider plus an easy way to compare basic information for yourself.

Bengt Halvorson

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Jun 26, 2012

Against the performance-oriented, top-of-the-line R-Design model, Volvo wants to be compared to the 300-hp 335i sedan, as well as the 333-hp Audi S4.

While the Volvo's respectable for power, both rival engines are a little more immediate in power delivery; likewise, they're sharper in handling, although the S60 is a blast to drive fast on real roads, and its ride quality especially in T6 guise is excellent.

The Acura TSX is a good intermediate choice and an alternative to the T5; it doesn't offer all-wheel drive, but there's a V6 model that provides strong performance.

The C Class, especially the C250, with its new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, could be a good alternative to the T5 as well.

Back-seat space remains better in the S60 than most, due to its contoured seating, allowing adults to fit.

And to throw a wild card into the mix, we also see the 2013 Buick Regal GS to be a worthy rival to the S60 in some respects.

While the Regal's interior is cramped and not nearly as well design, it hits some of the same marks for features and has surprisingly satisfying performance.

2013 Volvo S60 Get FREE Price Quote	2013 BMW 3-Series Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Buick Regal Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Mercedes-Benz C Class Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Acura TSX Get FREE Price Quote
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
8.4 The stylish 2013 Volvo S60 family spans the range from luxurious to edgy, all while hitting the mark for safety and top-notch interior design.	8.6 The 2013 BMW 3-Series is safe, fuel-efficient, and well-connected, yet it delivers the class-leading performance and handling that enthusiasts have come to expect.	8.4 The 2013 Buick Regal is a worthy sport sedan with arresting looks and sweet handling--so long as you stick with the turbos.	8.2 For those who are image-conscious yet value-conscious, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C Class sedans and coupes make a lot of sense.	8 With attractive designs and a light, efficient driving feel, the 2012 Acura TSX lineup strikes an ideal balance for a front-wheel-drive sport sedan or sport wagon.
MSRP From
$31,900	$32,550	$29,015	$35,350	$30,010
Gas Mileage
18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy	17 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy	18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy	15 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy
Engine
Turbocharged Gas I5	Turbocharged Gas I4	Gas/Electric L4	Turbocharged Gas I4	Gas I4
EPA Class
Compact	Compact Cars	Midsize	Compact	Compact
Style Name
4-Door Sedan T5 FWD	4-Door Sedan 320i RWD	4-Door Sedan Base	4-Door Sedan C250 Sport RWD	4-Door Sedan I4 Auto
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive	Rear Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Rear Wheel Drive	Front-Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
Sedan	Sedan	Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan
Transmission
Automatic w/Manual Shift	Automatic w/Manual Shift	Automatic w/manual shift	Automatic	Automatic