When you're looking to step up to a premium car from a luxury import brand like Volvo, the S60 sedan and XC40 compact crossover are our most affordable models. Despite their affordable price tags, they both go big on value, performance and, of course, safety. In their own way, each one is a better buy than rival cars from other import automakers! We'll show you more about what sets them apart below. So you can select the one that's the right fit for you and your family. Compare the 2021 Volvo S60 and 2021 Volvo XC40 below side-by-side.
Differences: Size & Design
From the outside, it's quickly obvious these are very different cars. For a classic look, the 2021 Volvo S60 is a compact sports sedan with premium style and a touch of sporting appeal. Cargo goes in the enclosed trunk and a sleek, aerodynamic shape helps promote a quiet ride. Meanwhile, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is our smallest SUV with city-friendly proportions. It's easy to park while also offering more than 57 cubic feet of cargo space when you fold the rear seats flat. And, standard roof rails are always ready to carry gear like surfboards and bicycles.
There's a little bit more room in the rear seats of the 2021 Volvo XC40, but when it comes to passenger comfort, you'll find that both these models offer similar legroom and premium, quality materials. With Swedish design, quality construction and plenty of space, you can't really go wrong when you choose Volvo.
Differences: Standard Features
You'll find a few advantages on the 2021 Volvo XC40 when it comes to standard features. For instance, the XC40 boasts standard perforated leather upholstery for a soft touch. That's a feature available on the 2021 Volvo S60 as well, but only when you upgrade to a higher trim level. You also get a convenient power tailgate standard!
The 2021 Volvo S60 will give you some extra standard features too, like a power moonroof and dual-zone automatic climate controls, that'll cost you extra on the XC40.
Differences: Performance
Entry-level 2021 Volvo XC40 models are equipped with the T4 engine, delivering 187 horsepower and more than 220 lb-ft of torque! That means you get an efficient drive with all the gumption you need for highway merging and steep inclines. Also available is the more powerful T5 engine which delivers 248 horsepower for those who want a little extra power and available all-wheel drive.
Meanwhile, entry-level 2021 Volvo S60 models come standard with the T5 powertrain, tuned to deliver 250 horsepower. That makes the S60 sportier to start. And with the available supercharged T6 and electrified T8 Plug-In Hybrid engines also available on the 2021 Volvo S60, you can get seriously sporty performance from this little sedan! It's also available with optional all-wheel drive.
The city-friendly Volvo XC40 is ideal for the daily drive around town. If you're looking for a car for longer highway cruises or carving canyon roads, the Volvo S60 offers the performance you're looking for.
Similarities: Multimedia
The Volvo Sensus infotainment system that features in both the 2021 Volvo XC40 and S60 is slick and intuitive. With its portrait-oriented touchscreen, configuring various settings and using the stereo is as simple as using the tablet-like display. And with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technology on both models, you'll have access to maps and music on your smartphone wherever you roam.
Similarities: Safety
But the technology in the latest 2021 Volvo models doesn't stop there. You also get standard driver assist technology on the 2021 Volvo XC40 and S60. Advanced sensors and computers monitor the road around you. Standard Collision Mitigation Support can help you avoid an accident, alerting you to traffic ahead or even engaging the brakes automatically. Both models also come standard with Blind Spot Information System with cross traffic alert, lane keeping aid and rear park assist. Pilot Assist adaptive cruise control is also available as an upgrade.
Find The Right New Volvo For You At Volvo Cars South Bay
The 2021 Volvo XC40 represents the most affordable way to upgrade to a new Volvo, all for a starting MSRP of just $33,700. The 2021 Volvo S60 costs a bit more, starting at an MSRP of $37,750, but you'll enjoy more standard power and performance. Whether you're looking for a sporty drive or a stylish city car with extra space for passengers and gear, you're sure to find something that fits your budget at Volvo Cars South Bay. Stop by for a test drive to meet the whole 2021 Volvo lineup in person. All this quality, technology and Sweedish style is something you've just got to experience for yourself!
| 2021 Volvo S60 |  | 2021 Volvo XC40 |
| $37,750 | Starting MSRP* | $33,700 |
| Compact Sports Sedan | Body Style | Compact Crossover SUV |
| 250 | Standard Horsepower | 187 |
| T5, T6, T8 Hybrid, T8 Polestar Hybrid | Available Engines | T4, T5 |
| Available Upgrade | All-Wheel Drive | Available Upgrade |
| 11.6 Cubic Feet | Maximum Cargo Volume | 57.5 Cubic Feet |
| 42.3" Front / 35.2" Rear | Legroom | 40.9" Front / 36.1" Rear |
| Available Upgrade | Leather Upholstery | Standard |
| Standard | City Safety Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard |
| Available Upgrade | Pilot Assist Adaptive Cruise Control | Available Upgrade |
*As a model year progresses, changes may occur in some of the specs, features, options and pricing. The manufacturer reserves the right to make such changes. Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Options may vary by region. See your Authorized Volvo Dealer for details.
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