Volvo V60 II (Z252) (2018 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.8/10

The second-generation Volvo V60 (Z252) represents a significant leap forward for the Swedish brand's mid-size estate. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, it shares much of its underpinnings, technology, and design language with the larger V90 and XC90. It offers class-leading safety, a minimalist Scandinavian interior, and excellent ride comfort. While Volvo has historically been synonymous with robust diesel estates, the V60 II marks the transition era. Early models (2018-2020) heavily featured the D3 and D4 2.0-litre diesel engines, which are excellent for high-mileage drivers. However, Volvo aggressively phased out diesels in favor of mild-hybrid (B-series) and plug-in hybrid (Recharge) powertrains. A major tech update occurred in 2022, replacing the Sensus infota

✅ Strengths

Class-leading safety features and crash test ratings
Exceptional seat comfort and ergonomic interior design
High-quality cabin materials with a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic
Excellent highway cruising refinement (especially D4 and T5)
Generous boot space (529 litres) with a practical, square shape
Strong performance from PHEV variants (T8)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Complex powertrains (PHEV, Twincharged) can be very expensive to repair
ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) failures on PHEV models
EGR and intake manifold issues on early diesel engines
Sensus infotainment system can be laggy on startup (pre-2022 models)
Firm ride quality on R-Design models with large alloy wheels
High depreciation on early diesel models due to market shifts

🎯 Verdict

The Volvo V60 II is arguably one of the most beautiful and comfortable estate cars on the market. If you are specifically looking for a diesel, the D4 is a fantastic long-distance cruiser, but you must ensure the intake manifold recall has been done and avoid using it solely for short city trips to prevent EGR/DPF nightmares. For most buyers today, a late-model petrol (B4) is the safest bet for long-term reliability. The PHEV models (Recharge) offer incredible performance and efficiency, but the high risk of ERAD failure makes them a risky purchase outside of the manufacturer's warranty. Buy a diesel for the highway, a mild-hybrid petrol for mixed use, and only buy a PHEV if it comes with a comprehensive extended warranty.