The dashboard flows in a pleasant shape. On Premium Package cars attractive wood trim appears sparingly on the glovebox lid and on all four doors; while sportier versions of the S60 eschew wood for metallic trim. Aluminum inserts brighten the steering column stalks and the steering wheel hub. The quality of the material used to cover other surfaces is good.
The standard gauges are attractive, with their flat gray background, and easy to read; while the switches are intuitive and easy to use. The T5 features the same watch-dial instruments used in the flagship S80. The four blue-faced instruments are surrounded by gray rings with subtle blue hash marks. They feature clear, attractive gray numerals and thin red pointers on blue hubs.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls are well designed and easy to operate, with big metaphoric controls to direct the airflow. Power-window buttons with auto-down are conveniently mounted on the door. Inside door handles are easy to grab.
The innovative radio controls take some familiarization to master. Changing preset channels involves turning a knob, rather than pressing a button. Once understood, the system works well. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has controls for the audio system that makes operating it easier while driving.
The center console features a covered storage bin and cup holders that fit all standard sizes of beverage container. There's another mini cup holder on the center of the dash.
Getting into the back seat requires a duck of the head. Once back there, the S60 offers good rear headroom, but larger adults will find it short of legroom.
The trunk is roomy and deep and will hold a lot of small bags. Putting big boxes into it might present a challenge, however. To carve the S60's swoopy shape, Volvo had to make design concessions that constrict the trunk opening. The rear seats are split 60/40 and fold down for greater cargo capacity. The front passenger seat also flips down; fold down the right rear seat and front passenger seat, and it will accommodate something quite long, such as a ladder.
