Opinions on the S60 D5 in Auto guise
Discussion
Hi guys. After recently having my car declared a total loss, I'm after a long-distance cruiser to cover big mileages (30k+ a year). The S60 in D5 guise seems to tick most of my boxes (except the lack of a hatch!).
So, does anyone have any experience or buying advice? Also, is the engine reliable (if serviced I presume yes). What about big jobs like belt changes, easy? Intervals etc?
Also, I see Auto or "Geartronic" in different ads. What's the difference? Is the geartronic any better, or does it have a specific reliability issue?
Cheers in advance for any advice.
So, does anyone have any experience or buying advice? Also, is the engine reliable (if serviced I presume yes). What about big jobs like belt changes, easy? Intervals etc?
Also, I see Auto or "Geartronic" in different ads. What's the difference? Is the geartronic any better, or does it have a specific reliability issue?
Cheers in advance for any advice.
I'd recommend an S60. I went for one coming from my MX5 and wanting something big, comfortable and fast. I went for the 2.0L turbo petrol, which is what I'd advise you to go for if you can afford one.
The geartronic system is a 'manumatic' system, essentially giving you automatic transmission with the option of shifting gears via moving the stick. I assume it will cost you a bit more than a standard auto transmission. The cars are generally very reliable. The front suspension and tyres get the most wear because of the heavy front end, and the electronic throttle module is the main mechanical weak point. It is easily diagnosed and fixed, so it shouldn't put you off.
I don't think there is as much cruiser available for the money outside of old BMW 7 series cars. With the Volvo badge, you're avoiding paying a premium for a German car and the S60 is generally better equipped and superior to it's rivals at the same price point. I had a bit of spare time at work today and I ended up sitting in my car listening to the radio, marvelling at how good it is. The drive home was even better!
The geartronic system is a 'manumatic' system, essentially giving you automatic transmission with the option of shifting gears via moving the stick. I assume it will cost you a bit more than a standard auto transmission. The cars are generally very reliable. The front suspension and tyres get the most wear because of the heavy front end, and the electronic throttle module is the main mechanical weak point. It is easily diagnosed and fixed, so it shouldn't put you off.
I don't think there is as much cruiser available for the money outside of old BMW 7 series cars. With the Volvo badge, you're avoiding paying a premium for a German car and the S60 is generally better equipped and superior to it's rivals at the same price point. I had a bit of spare time at work today and I ended up sitting in my car listening to the radio, marvelling at how good it is. The drive home was even better!
Geartronic is just Volvo's version of Tiptronic or whatever. Same gearbox, just the gearstick has a +/- mode.
Autos are not as economical as manuals around town (not much in it on the motorway) and have a higher VED bracket.
2004 models (identified by smaller door mirrors and silver instrument surrounds - from about July 2003 on) seem to have more reliable auto gearboxes. 2000-2003 models can begin giving problems at about 100-120k.
On the whole excellent cars.
Autos are not as economical as manuals around town (not much in it on the motorway) and have a higher VED bracket.
2004 models (identified by smaller door mirrors and silver instrument surrounds - from about July 2003 on) seem to have more reliable auto gearboxes. 2000-2003 models can begin giving problems at about 100-120k.
On the whole excellent cars.
I have an S60 albeit in 2.4t petrol guise.
They are brilliant cruisers and so comfy. Also they are pretty anonymous which I like.
Handling is a lot better than I expected although understeer is the order of the day and the steering isn't as sharp as a BMW.
As mentioned the pro logic hifi is amazing.
Mine is a regular auto and it suits the laid back character of the car. They do suffer from a few issues, watch out for jerky changes particularly into 3rd and a delay when shifting into D from N. If it works ok then should be fine.
Also watch out for clunky suspension which isn't uncommon..
They are brilliant cruisers and so comfy. Also they are pretty anonymous which I like.
Handling is a lot better than I expected although understeer is the order of the day and the steering isn't as sharp as a BMW.
As mentioned the pro logic hifi is amazing.
Mine is a regular auto and it suits the laid back character of the car. They do suffer from a few issues, watch out for jerky changes particularly into 3rd and a delay when shifting into D from N. If it works ok then should be fine.
Also watch out for clunky suspension which isn't uncommon..
My dad's had a 53 plate D5 for ages now. Not really had many issues with it other than perpetual rear suspension clonks and eating tyres.
He has however just had to have a new intercooler after the original cracked. Apparently it's a common problem. His has probably done about 80k by now.
He has however just had to have a new intercooler after the original cracked. Apparently it's a common problem. His has probably done about 80k by now.
soprano said:
Any particular reason for auto or just personal preference?
I have a manual D5 - like others have said, great cruiser, comfy seats, good fuel economy, pro logic is great. For 30k miles a year on motorways very good choice.
Not really, other than hardly any manuals in my searches. I would prefer one if I could find one, for the extra economy! However, at the same time I spend significant time in traffic, so auto might help with clutch foot ache! I have a manual D5 - like others have said, great cruiser, comfy seats, good fuel economy, pro logic is great. For 30k miles a year on motorways very good choice.
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