Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Positioning:
Premium, safety-focused, comfortable touring sedan
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS
Brand Philosophy:
Volvo's core values of safety, Scandinavian design, and comfort
Vehicle Focus:
Emphasis on driver and passenger safety, intuitive operation, and refined driving experience
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling, lubrication, fuel system basics
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation and basic care
Chassis:
Braking system overview, steering system overview, suspension overview
Electrical:
Lighting controls, instrument panel, power accessories, basic fuse information
Safety:
Airbag system, seatbelt usage, child safety seat installation, child locks
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control, audio system, power seats, power windows, keyless entry
Instrumentation:
Gauges, warning lights, driver information system (DIS)
Driving Operations:
Starting and driving, parking, shifting gears, cruise control operation
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement instructions
Troubleshooting:
Interpretation of warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting tips for common indicators
Emergency Procedures:
Breakdown procedures, tire changing (if applicable), jump starting instructions
Depth:
Operational guidance, basic maintenance, safety features, driver information
Diagnostic Level:
Non-diagnostic; focuses on understanding vehicle functions and basic care
Repair Level:
No repair procedures; this is an owner's manual, not a service manual
Engine Code Typical:
B5254S
Configuration:
Inline 5-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2521 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 93.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Typical:
198 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Typical:
236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 recommended for optimal performance
Emissions Standard:
Meets EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards
Type:
Geartronic™ 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
Gear Ratios Approx:
1st: 4.46, 2nd: 2.75, 3rd: 1.80, 4th: 1.33, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.75, Reverse: 4.00
Type:
No manual transmission option for 2008 S60 in North America
Features:
Adaptive shift control, sequential manual shifting mode (Geartronic™)
Fluid Type:
Volvo Dexron VI (or equivalent)
Capacity Approx:
8.0 Liters (16.9 US Pints)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, Inflatable Curtain (IC) airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Whiplash Protection:
Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) in front seats
Audio System:
Available premium audio systems by Harman Kardon. Standard system typically includes AM/FM, CD player, and auxiliary input. Optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Display:
Center console mounted LCD screen for climate, audio, and vehicle settings. Optional Navigation System.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling became available on later models/facelifts, but might be an option or aftermarket add-on for early 2008 models.
Cruise Control:
Standard Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) available on some trims.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Lighting:
Optional Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Bending Lights (ABL).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Timing Belt Or Chain:
This engine features a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine and typically does not require scheduled replacement. However, inspection for wear is recommended at higher mileages.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (170,000 km) or 5 years, then every 45,000 miles (70,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic, API SM/CF or ILSAC GF-4, ACEA A5/B5 recommended. Capacity approx. 6.7 US quarts (6.3 Liters) with filter.
Coolant:
Volvo Premium Coolant (G48, blue/green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Volvo Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202)
Common Wear Items:
PCV system (crankcase ventilation), ignition coils, control arms, and transmission solenoids can be common wear items.
Electronics:
Occasional issues with CEM (Car Electronic Module), ABS modules, and sunroof motors have been reported.
Suspension Components:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints) may require replacement due to wear over time.
Founding Principles:
Founded in 1927, Volvo's legacy is built on safety, quality, and innovation, with a strong Scandinavian design ethos.
First Generation:
The S60 was first introduced in 2000 as a successor to the S70 and positioned as a sportier alternative to the S80. The P2 platform was shared with the Volvo V70 and XC70 of the same era.
Second Generation Introduction:
The 2008 model year represents the latter part of the first generation (2000-2009), which received a significant facelift for the 2005 model year. This facelift included updated styling, improved interior materials, and chassis enhancements.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing plants included Ghent, Belgium, and Kalmar, Sweden.