The Volvo S60 Inscription is a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable sedan with a focus on safety and Scandinavian design. However, like any car, some model years are more reliable and desirable than others. This guide will delve into the best years of the S60 Inscription and highlight the years you might want to avoid, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Volvo S60 Inscription: Model Year Deep Dive

Model Year Key Features/Improvements Potential Issues/Concerns
2019 (SPA Platform Launch) New SPA platform, updated design, advanced safety features, T5 and T6 engine options, Inscription trim focuses on luxury. First year of a new platform; potential for initial production glitches. Some reports of infotainment system glitches.
2020 Minor software updates, improved driver assistance features. Similar infotainment system issues as 2019. Some reports of oil consumption in certain T6 engines.
2021 Introduction of mild-hybrid (B series) engines, further refined driver assistance. Some reports of mild-hybrid system issues in early production models.
2022 Google Android Automotive OS replaces Sensus infotainment, refreshed exterior styling, standard panoramic sunroof. New Google-based infotainment may have initial software bugs or require a learning curve. Potential for sunroof leaks (although less common than in some other models).
2023 Minor trim adjustments, continued refinement of Google-based infotainment. Relatively few widespread issues reported.
2024 Likely continuation of 2023 features with minor updates. Too early to definitively assess reliability, but initial reports suggest continued improvements.

Detailed Explanations

2019 (SPA Platform Launch): This year marked a significant redesign for the S60, moving to Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The SPA platform allowed for improved ride quality, handling, and safety features. The Inscription trim offered a higher level of luxury with upgraded materials and features. However, as the first year of a new platform, some initial production issues were possible.

2020: Volvo addressed some of the initial issues from the 2019 model year with software updates and refinements to the driver assistance features. The S60 Inscription continued to offer a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. Be aware of potential reports of oil consumption in certain T6 engine configurations.

2021: A notable change for 2021 was the introduction of mild-hybrid (B series) engines, which offered improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. These B-series engines replaced some of the earlier T-series engines. The driver assistance systems were also further refined. Some early production models experienced minor issues with the new mild-hybrid system.

2022: The 2022 model year brought a significant change to the infotainment system, replacing the older Sensus system with Google Android Automotive OS. This offered a more modern and integrated experience with Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other Google services. The exterior styling was also refreshed, and a panoramic sunroof became standard. The new Google-based infotainment system may have required a learning curve for some users, and early versions could have had some software bugs.

2023: The 2023 model year focused on minor trim adjustments and continued refinement of the Google-based infotainment system. Overall, the 2023 S60 Inscription is considered a reliable and well-equipped luxury sedan. Few widespread issues have been reported.

2024: The 2024 model year is expected to continue the features and improvements from 2023, with minor updates. It's still too early to definitively assess the long-term reliability of the 2024 models, but initial reports suggest continued improvements in quality and performance.

Choosing the Right Engine: T5, T6, and Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid)

The Volvo S60 Inscription has been offered with various engine options over the years. Understanding the differences between these engines is crucial for making the right choice.

  • T5: The T5 engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. This engine is generally considered reliable.
  • T6: The T6 engine is a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It provides more power and quicker acceleration than the T5. However, some T6 engines, particularly in earlier model years, have had reports of higher oil consumption.
  • Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid): This powertrain combines a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and battery pack. It offers the best of both worlds: strong performance and the ability to drive short distances on electric power alone. While generally reliable, hybrid systems can be more complex and potentially more expensive to repair.

Which engine is best?

  • For Value and Reliability: The T5 engine is a solid choice if you prioritize fuel efficiency and reliability.
  • For Performance: The T6 engine offers more power and a more engaging driving experience, but be aware of potential oil consumption issues in certain model years.
  • For Efficiency and Performance: The Recharge plug-in hybrid offers the best combination of fuel efficiency and performance, but it's the most expensive option and may have higher maintenance costs in the long run.

Key Features of the Inscription Trim

The Inscription trim level is the most luxurious trim available for the Volvo S60. It includes a variety of features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and style.

  • Leather Upholstery: Premium leather seats and interior trim.
  • Wood Trim: Genuine wood accents throughout the cabin.
  • Heated and Ventilated Front Seats: Enhance comfort in all weather conditions.
  • Power Adjustable Front Seats with Memory: Allows drivers to easily find their preferred seating position.
  • Harmon Kardon Premium Sound System (or Bowers & Wilkins): Provides exceptional audio quality.
  • Advanced Safety Features: Including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
  • Unique Exterior Design Elements: Such as chrome accents and distinctive wheels.

Potential Issues to Watch Out For

While the Volvo S60 Inscription is generally a reliable car, there are some potential issues to be aware of:

  • Infotainment System Glitches: The Sensus infotainment system in earlier models (2019-2021) could experience occasional glitches and slow response times. The Google Android Automotive OS in later models (2022 onward) is generally more stable, but early versions may have had some software bugs.
  • Oil Consumption (T6 Engines): Some T6 engines, particularly in earlier model years, have been reported to consume more oil than expected.
  • Mild-Hybrid System Issues (2021): Some early production models with the mild-hybrid (B series) engines experienced minor issues with the hybrid system.
  • Sunroof Leaks: While less common in the S60 than in some other Volvo models, sunroof leaks are a possibility.
  • Electrical Issues: Like any modern car with a complex electrical system, the S60 can experience occasional electrical issues, such as sensor malfunctions or battery drain.

How to Mitigate Potential Issues:

  • Thorough Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect any used S60 Inscription before you buy it.
  • Check Service History: Review the car's service history to see if any recurring issues have been addressed.
  • Test Drive Extensively: Take the car for a long test drive to check for any unusual noises, vibrations, or performance issues.
  • Consider an Extended Warranty: If you're buying a used S60 Inscription, consider purchasing an extended warranty to protect yourself from unexpected repair costs.

Factors Influencing Reliability

Several factors can influence the reliability of a Volvo S60 Inscription:

  • Model Year: As discussed earlier, some model years are generally more reliable than others.
  • Engine Type: The T5 engine is generally considered the most reliable, while the T6 engine may have a higher risk of oil consumption.
  • Maintenance History: A well-maintained car is more likely to be reliable than one that has been neglected.
  • Driving Habits: Aggressive driving can put more stress on the engine and other components, potentially leading to premature wear and tear.
  • Location: Cars that are driven in harsh climates (e.g., extreme heat or cold, salty roads) may be more prone to corrosion and other issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Volvo S60 Inscription year is the most reliable? The 2023 model year is generally considered the most reliable due to its refined Google-based infotainment system and lack of widespread reported issues.

Are Volvo S60 Inscriptions expensive to maintain? Maintenance costs can be higher than some other luxury sedans, particularly for models with the T6 engine or the Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Does the Google-based infotainment system have any issues? Early versions of the Google Android Automotive OS (introduced in 2022) may have had some software bugs, but Volvo has released updates to address these issues.

Is the T5 or T6 engine better for reliability? The T5 engine is generally considered more reliable than the T6 engine, which has had some reports of oil consumption in certain model years.

What is the difference between the Sensus and Google infotainment systems? Sensus was Volvo's older infotainment system, while Google Android Automotive OS is a newer system that offers a more modern and integrated experience with Google services.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for a Volvo S60 Inscription depends on your individual needs and priorities. While the 2023 model offers the most refined experience, earlier years like 2019 and 2020 can offer excellent value with proper inspection and maintenance. Consider the potential issues and choose the model year and engine that best suits your requirements for a luxurious and safe driving experience.