The Volvo S40 II 2.4i, produced between 2004 and 2007, represented a significant step forward for Volvo’s compact sedan offering. Part of the second generation S40 (designated as the 44x chassis series), this variant occupied a mid-range position within the lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It was designed to compete with European rivals like the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, aiming to deliver Volvo’s renowned safety standards in a more accessible package for the North American and European markets. The 2.4i model, powered by a naturally aspirated inline-five engine, provided a smoother and more refined driving experience compared to the base 1.8L models, while remaining more economical than the high-performance T5 variant.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 |
| Generation | S40 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3750 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5244S5 |
| Engine displacement | 2435 cm3 (148.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1368 kg (3015.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 592 kg (1305.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 404 l (14.27 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 883 l (31.18 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4468 mm (175.91 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S40 II 2.4i is the B5244S5 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine is notable for its relatively smooth operation and distinctive sound, a characteristic of Volvo’s five-cylinder designs. It utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produces 140 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a direct and engaging driving experience. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and longevity, making it a relatively straightforward unit to maintain.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4i offered a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 10.1 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The five-speed manual transmission allowed for good control over the engine’s powerband. Compared to the 1.8L models, the 2.4i offered noticeably more responsive acceleration and a more relaxed feel at higher speeds. However, it lacked the outright performance of the turbocharged T5 variant. The gear ratios were well-matched for both city and highway driving, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, although it wasn’t as engaging as some rear-wheel-drive competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S40 II 2.4i typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Optional extras included a sunroof, premium audio system, and automatic climate control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 2.4i sat in the middle of the range, offering more features than the base models but lacking the luxury appointments of the T5. Safety features were a hallmark of Volvo, and the S40 II 2.4i included standard features like side airbags and whiplash protection system (WHIPS).
Chassis & Braking
The S40 II utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness. Brakes were disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels, with ABS standard. The braking system provided adequate stopping power for everyday driving, although it wasn’t as powerful as some competitors with four-wheel disc brakes. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S40 II 2.4i was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong safety credentials. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of some of its rivals. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the 1.8L models, the 2.4i offered a significant improvement in performance and refinement, justifying the higher price tag for many buyers. Compared to the T5, it offered a more affordable entry point into the S40 range, albeit with a noticeable reduction in performance.
Legacy
The B5244S5 engine, found in the S40 II 2.4i, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable powerplant. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The S40 II 2.4i remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a safe, comfortable, and reliable compact sedan. Common maintenance issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures, but these are generally straightforward to address. The car’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it a good option for DIY mechanics. While it may not offer the same level of performance or technology as more modern vehicles, the S40 II 2.4i continues to offer a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
