Volvo Safety: Swedish Brand & Safety Are Synonymous

Sandy B
Mar 8, 2021

2020 Volvo XC60

As you compare the used cars for sale, wondering about things like fuel economy and tech features, don’t forget to consider safety. In a vehicle like the Volvo S60, safety ratings can make a big difference in whether you decide to buy the car or look for another option.

How safe is the Volvo S60?

The 2020 Volvo S60 received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA and the highest possible rating of “Good” from IIHS. Combine this with a 4.5-Star Owner Rating and 4.3/10-Star Expert Review Rating from Vehicle History, and you have a solid, safe car.

Before you rush to the dealership, there’s more to safety than just test ratings (and sometimes those are lacking in detail). Here, we’re breaking down test results and looking at onboard tech to determine just how safe the Volvo S60 is so you can buy with confidence.

2020 Volvo S60 Crash Test Rating

Wouldn’t it be great to smash a few cars and see what happens? That’s basically (in a controlled environment) what happens in crash tests from these industry leaders. We’ll check out how the Volvo S60 performed in these tests here.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Test Results

When it comes to the risk of an accident, the IIHS gives the 2020 Volvo S60 an overall “Good” rating in crashworthiness. That’s the highest possible. That includes seats, head restraints, side impact, overlap, and roof strength. You can’t beat that.

It also notes that the headlights tested in crash avoidance were “Good” overall, but the optional upgraded version was only “Marginally” rated. The LATCH system, for child seat anchors, only received an “Acceptable” rating. However, the Volvo hit the marks for “Superior” in front crash prevention for cars and pedestrians.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Test Results

As noted, the NHTSA gives the 2020 Volvo S60 a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating, but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. It’s Overall Front Star Rating is only a 4 due to a less-than-desirable performance in the front passenger side test.

The vehicle does get a full 5 stars on its Overall Side Star Rating, which includes side barrier and pole ratings. It did well in the Rollover test, getting a full 5 stars. This vehicle’s rollover risk is 9.9%, which is pretty competitive for vehicles of its size and class.

2020 Volvo Available Security Features

Volvo has built in a number of safety features to help drivers to minimize at least some of the risk they face behind the wheel. This is done through the company’s Pilot Assist system. Unlike other manufacturers, the company labels all of its safety tech under this one heading.

Still, it offers a lot of functionality and provides some excellent tech features to keep you safe on the road, including these.

Steering Assistance

One of the features uses the radar sensors on the body of the vehicle to keep you in the driving lane. Steering assist will help you avoid swerving out of the lane and gently moves you back into the lane if you somehow move across it without your turn signal on.

Road Bend Protection

In situations where there is a road bend or a lane split, the vehicle will steer the driver towards the appropriate area, instead of allowing the driver to go off the side of the road. It aims to keep the car in the middle of the lane whenever possible.

Steering Wheel Notifications

Let’s say you decide to let your teen drive the car, and he tries to text while driving. The car senses that the driver’s hand isn’t on the steering wheel and prompts the driver to do so. It also can handle more of the steering to reduce risks.

Automatic Braking with Driver Support

This feature allows for the car to stop the car if there’s a likelihood of an accident. If you are going to collide with an object in front of you, this feature works to stop that from occurring by controlling the brake function. It’s going to try to stop as safely as possible to avoid the crash.

Here’s What Other People Ask about the 2020 Volvo S60

Before you invest in this vehicle, you need to know it’s the right option for you. With these answers to common questions, you’re one step closer to making that decision.

Generally, are Volvo cars safe?

Overall, Volvo is recognized as a reliably safe vehicle manufacturer. The company tends to be at the head or ahead of the game when it comes to things like safety features and improved headlights, tires, and overall exterior body durability. It’s still important to check the individual specs for the model.

Why does a Volvo cost so much?

Volvos are more expensive vehicles, and they typically use more valuable materials. That does make them more expensive to repair and maintain. Yet, they tend to be very tech-focused as well, which can also add to the costs you’ll pay to buy this luxury car.

Will a Volvo S60 last for a long time?

Volvos have a good overall reputation for lasting and long-term performance. The latest models will last well over 100,000 miles. However, to do this, they have to be well maintained and given proper, routine maintenance and upkeep over their lifetime. Still, most do last.

What are the problems with a Volvo?

There are few problems of significance noted about the latest Volvo models. The 2020 model does have one recall on the automatic emergency braking system (yes, that’s a safety feature). It fails to operate when and how it should. Volvo recalled and fixed the software problem for these cars, though, getting them back on the road.

Should You Buy a Used Volvo? You Can, Safely, With the Right Info

Before you can buy a vehicle with confidence, you have to get the data. Vehicle History makes that easy for you. We’ve scoured the web to compile over 140 owner notes on these vehicles. And, we’re giving it to you in a free tool on your make and model.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Carol W on August 18, 2021
Get a 2019 Volvo S60 Momentum and feel safe and very secure.
This is my 3rd Volvo and they all have been s60's. They are very safe and never had any problems with them. The new one now has so many new devices I had to learn but worth it. I can feel secure and safe. This car is great for your teenage children being it has every bells and things to help you drive safer.
accountCircle Rhonda G on May 7, 2021
My 2018 Volvo S60 is everything I was looking for in a car.
When I was looking to buy a car I knew that I wanted something that was safe but also something that looked classy but fun at the same time. The first time I drove my Volvo I knew I was in love. The safety features are fabulous, the look is exactly what I wanted and it is the most comfortable ride!
accountCircle Shai H on April 5, 2021
Excellent, powerful and classy 2020 Volvo S60 Momentum!
The s-60 t6 momentum is my most powerful and luxurious Volvo to date. It is full of safety and comfort features (auto high beam, lane departure alert, excellent lumbar support, apple play, excellent sound system, etc.).
accountCircle Rebecca H on May 13, 2021
Best car for safety, comfort, and value: 2018 Volvo S60 Inscription
The car is easy to drive in snow, rain or ice. I feel safe because if the weight of the car. The side lights that let you know a car is on your right or left side have saved me from having a wreck.
accountCircle Craig M on March 18, 2021
Great value vs competitors, 2019 Volvo S60 Momentum.
Volvo seems to be an undervalued car in the marketplace I believe. And as usual the safety is beyond compare. The standard equipment is in many ways superior to those competitors.
accountCircle Edwin O on May 14, 2021
2018 Volvo S60 is a lot more affordable than you might think.
Whenever I am in the s60 I feel safe and confidence out on the road especially on the highway a highway speeds. This is why it is my go to vehicle. It oozes safety.
accountCircle donna m on April 7, 2021
I feel safe in the 2017 Volvo S60 like I have with the other 5 Volvo brand cars I have owned.
It is very safe and has a nice interior. I hate the turn engine off option when car is at a full stop--takes too long to re-start when light turns green.
accountCircle Mia P on July 14, 2021
I highly recommend 2018 Volvo S60 Dynamic, these cars are reliable, efficient, and safe.
This vehicle is very comfortable and smooth to drive, there are great safety features on the car and it has been very reliable.
accountCircle Blake E on April 25, 2021
2019 S60 is a great entry level luxury sedan with Volvos safety features.
The momentum trim t5 is very affordable as an entry level luxury vehicle. All the Volvo safety features apply to this vehicle.
accountCircle Leo U on May 17, 2021
2017 Volvo S60 the safe alternative
Great safe, comfortable car. Excellent driving sedan which is made to be driven . Volvo and safety goes hand and hand.
accountCircle Cari C on August 13, 2021
2019 Volvo S60 R-Design product review.
Safety features are good however the sensors are unreliable, ex: show an object is next to me when nothing is there.
accountCircle Ann B on June 26, 2021
2018 Volvo S60 is a safe vehicle and great on gas mileage.
Its technology is very up to date and I feel very safe driving it and having my son and his friends as passengers.
accountCircle Louise C on April 4, 2021
2017 Volvo S60 has a proven track record of providing one of the safest vehicles on the road.
Best thing about my Volvo is it is a safe car to drive. The s60 I have is larger and sleeker than previous models.
accountCircle Sara G on May 14, 2021
2016 Volvo s60 has extensive safety systems.
There are many safety features including a blind spot warning, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
accountCircle Deanna G on April 21, 2021
2017 Volvo S60 is one of the safest cars on the road.
I like the safety features. I like the dependability. I like the Volvo service. And I like the style of the car.
accountCircle Gretchen G on July 6, 2021
2018 Volvo S60, great car, reliable and safe.
The car is comfortable, road noise is minimal, the sound system is enjoyable, it is safe and fun to drive.
accountCircle Lynn P on April 12, 2021
Love my 2017 Volvo S60 Inscription! Safe, beautiful and fun to drive.
Safety has been #1 throughout this vehicle. I would definitely purchase another Volvo in my future.
accountCircle Tracy K on April 9, 2021
2016 Volvo S60 T5 Platinum. Not just a safe, boring car anymore.
The features are fantastic! Volvo has created a super safe and luxurious family 'sports' car.
accountCircle June P on July 20, 2021
2018 Volvo S60 Dynamic review, amazing car!
This vehicle has amazing pick up, good safety features and is overall a really great car!
accountCircle Snobia W on April 26, 2021
2020 Volvo s60: something you want to drive!
I love all the safety features especially the park assist and the blind spot protection.
accountCircle Rachael T on April 26, 2021
2017 Volvo S60 Base is extremely reliable
It's incredibly safe and user friendly which was a huge selling point for me.
accountCircle Danielle M on August 20, 2021
Why I love my 2019 Volvo S60 Inscription- the turbo which never disappoints.
Other than this there is no other car as far as affordability and safety go.
accountCircle Laurie A on July 15, 2021
2016 Volvo S60 is the best vehicle on the road. Top vehicle and the safest vehicle you can buy.
This is a very safe vehicle with all the safety features anyone could want.
accountCircle Callie T on May 26, 2021
2016 Volvo S60 is very comfortable and super fun and easy to drive.
I feel very safe and more in control in than car than any I have driven.
accountCircle Kristen Y on August 19, 2021
2017 Volvo S60 Inscription: Safe, comfortable, and fun to drive.
The aesthetic details feel luxurious and the safety ratings are great.
accountCircle Sarah V on June 11, 2021
2019 Volvo S60 Momentum great features included.
Most advanced safety features like blind spot protection included.
avatar Sandy B
Sandy B. has written for The New York Times, Cleveland Magazine, and many online publications. She long-ago ditched the minivan life for the off-roading Ford Explorer (and hoping to restore a Shelby Mustang!)
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