
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.
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Quick Specs | ||||
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. |
For nearly all compact-sedan shoppers except serious enthusiasts or green-car fanatics, the 2013 Acura TSX strikes an agreeable compromise between sport-sedan attitude and premium-car practicality. |
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. |
The 2013 Buick Regal is a worthy sport sedan with arresting looks and sweet handling--so long as you stick with the turbos. |
For those who are image-conscious yet value-conscious, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C Class sedans and coupes make a lot of sense. |
MSRP From | ||||
$31,900 | $30,510 | $32,550 | $29,015 | $35,350 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Turbocharged Gas I5 | Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas/Electric L4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
Compact | Compact | Compact Cars | Midsize | Compact |
Style Name | ||||
4-Door Sedan T5 AWD | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic | 4-Door Sedan 320i RWD South Africa | 4-Door Sedan Base | 4-Door Sedan C 250 Sport RWD |
Drivetrain | ||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear 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 | Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
Transmission | ||||
Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/manual shift | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2013 Volvo S60 vs. 2013 Acura TSX | 2013 Volvo S60 vs. 2013 BMW 3-Series | 2013 Volvo S60 vs. 2013 Buick Regal | 2013 Volvo S60 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C Class |