Faults:

Certain faults with the automatic transmission, erratic shifting, jerking or delays when engaging gears.

Leaks in the evaporation system (gasoline smell), failures in the power steering pump module and false warnings of burned-out lights.

Vibrations at highway speeds and brake rotors that require early replacement.

The T6 in particular is quite expensive to repair; spare parts cost a lot. That's why it's necessary to keep a rigorous and complete service history. Even though it's a reliable car, it's always better to have everything in order.

General Comments:

Despite being a sober sedan, this car is thoroughly sporty; the mere fact that it has a 300 hp turbocharged engine says it all.

At first glance, it behaves like any other midsize sedan, with a somewhat subdued driving experience. However, when you activate S+ (Advanced Quick Shift) mode, the transmission completely transforms. It goes from being a typical everyday midsize sedan to a high-performance sports car.

The engine response is more precise, the transmission delivers power with greater aggression, the shifts are virtually instantaneous, and the ECU keeps the engine revs at the optimal point. Turbo lag is nonexistent, but when you release the accelerator, you can hear the blow-off valve hiss as it releases excess pressure. On a boring day, it can undoubtedly awaken the inner child and bring back the fun.

As for the driving experience itself, the steering feel can be adjusted in the vehicle settings to be light, medium, or heavy.

In "heavy" mode, the steering provides good feedback on what the front wheels are doing, while at the other extreme, in "light" mode, the steering is too light for sporty driving but makes maneuvering on busy city streets much easier.

Most normal drivers (like me, despite living in a country of crazy drivers) choose the medium mode.

Comfort, safety, and a sense of well-being are paramount in this car; upgrading from a Corolla to this S60 was a significant improvement. The Japanese make reliable and durable cars, that's true, but the Swedes, in addition to making them reliable, also make them comfortable and luxurious.

The cabin is very quiet; you can travel long distances and arrive at your destination completely relaxed. The seats are especially comfortable, offering excellent support in curves without sacrificing comfort.

Volvo's reputation for having the safest cars in the world is reflected in this particular car. It's fitted with Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross Traffic Alert, a full complement of airbags for the front and rear passengers, and the City Safety system (a Volvo exclusive). The system is active below 30km/h, and it uses a radar and camera system to detect an imminent collision with the vehicle in front or a pedestrian, and applies the brakes if the driver cannot react fast enough.

Before driving this car, I had the perception that Volvos are still just safe but boring to drive cars. After driving this car, my perception of Volvos has changed by 180°… at least the driving perception. Yes, they are still some of the safest vehicles in the world, but by no means are they boring to drive.