New Volvo S60 ditches diesel engines
Why the new Volvo S60 will be available only with petrol and hybrid power. Plus, we take a look at the top 10 executive cars it has to beat...
The all-new Volvo S60 executive saloon, which is due to be revealed in the next few weeks, will be the first modern Volvo to not be offered with a diesel engine.
This decision reflects falling demand for diesel cars and Volvo's plans to switch to an all-electrified range. However, it's still a brave move given that the S60 is aimed primarily at the company car market, where key rivals such as the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series continue to sell best in diesel form.
The fact that the estate version of the S60, the V60, is available with diesel power, also makes the decision a surprise, although at last month's Beijing motor show Volvo said that it's aiming for fully electric cars to make up 50% of its sales by 2025.
Volvo's first fully electric car, which will take the form of a family SUV, will go on sale next year, and will be joined by four others before the end of 2021.
The new S60 will initially be offered with a range of four-cylinder petrol engines as well as with two plug-in hybrid powertrains. Meanwhile, mild-hybrid S60s with an electric motor that can assist the petrol engine but not power the car on its own, will follow next year.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
Top 10 executive cars currently on sale
10. Mercedes C-Class
The C-Class is one of the three most popular choices when it comes to executive cars, the other two being the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series – both of which feature further up this list. Choosing the C-Class gets you a superb interior, plus most engines have taax-friendly CO2 emissions, with the entry-level C 220d diesel making the most financial sense.
Our pick: C 220d SE
Read our full Mercedes C-Class review >
See how much you could save on a Mercedes C-Class >
9. Jaguar XE
Taking on the big German brands in this market is a big task, but Jaguar has made a good first impression with its junior saloon, the XE. It's a car that's a pleasure to drive, thanks to preise steering and sharp handling. And while interior quality is slightly off the pace, you get a lot of equipment for your money.
Our pick: 2.0d 180 Prestige
Read our full Jaguar XE review >
See how much you could save on a Jaguar XE >
8. Ford Mondeo
Mondeo Man has grown up and now expects more from his car than ever before. Fortunately, the Mondeo has grown up too, and now offers a comfortable driving experience and hugely spacious interio. We'd go for the mid-range 2.0-litre diesel engine, and pair it with Zetec trim which gets you everything you're likely to want, including a heated windscreen, rear electric windows and a ski hatch in the rear for carrying longer items.
Our pick: 2.0 TDCi 150 Zetec
