With the Volvo S60 T6, Volvo is begging a comparison to BMW's 300-hp 335i sedan, as well as the 333-hp Audi S4.
Both engines--especially the BMW unit--are a little more immediate in their power delivery, although the new T6 R-Design sharpens the Volvo's responses so that it's close.
In terms of handling, the 3-Series remains the champ, although the S60 is both capable and fun to drive.
The Acura TSX doesn't offer all-wheel drive, but new for last year was an Acura TSX V6 model that, although front-wheel drive, delivers satisfying performance and nimble handling.
Those seeking luxury over outright sportiness might prefer the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which this year introduces an all-new turbocharged four-cylinder engine (in the C250).
But of all there models, except maybe the TSX, the S60 offers the most usable passenger space in the back seat.
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 2012 Volvo S60Browse Used Listings |  2012 Acura TSXBrowse Used Listings |  2012 BMW 3-SeriesBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Mercedes-Benz C ClassBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||
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The 2012 Volvo S60 family shows that sport sedans can feel edgy without giving up their leading edge in safety, design, and interior interior comfort. |
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. |
Despite the weight gain, the BMW M3's still one of the most stunning performance vehicles we've driven. |
With a new base four-cylinder engine, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class makes even more sense for value-conscious (yet image-conscious) luxury shoppers. |
| MSRP From | |||
| $31,300 | $30,010 | $34,900 | $34,800 |
| Gas Mileage | |||
| 18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||
| Turbocharged Gas I5 | Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | |||
| Compact | Compact | Compact Cars | Compact |
| Style Name | |||
| FWD 4-Door Sedan T5 | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic | 4-Door Sedan 328i RWD | 4-Door Sedan C 250 Sport RWD |
| Drivetrain | |||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||
| 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
| Transmission | |||
| Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic | Manual | Automatic |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
| 2012 Volvo S60 vs. 2012 Acura TSX | 2012 Volvo S60 vs. 2012 BMW 3-Series | 2012 Volvo S60 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class | |
