The Volvo S60 2.4, produced between 2000 and 2003, represented Volvo’s entry into the increasingly competitive entry-level luxury sedan segment. Positioned as a more sporting alternative to the traditionally conservative Volvo 850 and S70, the S60 was built on the P24 platform, shared with the V70 wagon. The 2.4-liter, 200 horsepower, all-wheel-drive variant occupied a middle ground in the S60 lineup, offering a balance of performance and affordability. It sat below the higher-performance T5 model and above the base 2.3-liter engine option, appealing to buyers seeking a refined driving experience with added security of all-wheel drive.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (200 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15 l/100 km (15.7 US mpg, 18.8 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 1800 rpm (210.21 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5244T3 |
| Engine displacement | 2435 cm3 (148.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 424 l (14.97 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1034 l (36.52 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4576 mm (180.16 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Height | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 2.4 AWD is the Volvo B5244T3 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine is a descendant of Volvo’s long-running “Redblock” family of engines, known for their robustness and relatively simple design. The B5244T3 features a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. A low-pressure turbocharger, coupled with a Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, provides forced induction, boosting power output to 200 horsepower and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s torque curve is relatively flat, providing good responsiveness across a wide RPM range. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, delivering power to all four wheels via Volvo’s viscous coupling-based all-wheel-drive system. This system normally operates as front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels when slip is detected, enhancing traction in adverse conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The S60 2.4 AWD offered a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the turbocharged engine provided adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 7.7 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system instilled confidence in various weather conditions, providing enhanced grip and stability. Compared to the more powerful T5 model, the 2.4 felt less urgent in its acceleration, but the broader torque band made it more forgiving in everyday driving situations. The manual transmission, while not particularly sporty in its shift feel, was durable and reliable. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps effectively, but body roll was noticeable during aggressive cornering. The steering, hydraulically assisted, offered reasonable feedback, though it lacked the precision of some European competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 2.4 AWD typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Safety was a Volvo hallmark, and the S60 included standard features like ABS brakes, side airbags, and a robust safety cage. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, premium audio systems, and automatic climate control. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most variations stemming from the addition of optional packages. The overall interior design was clean and functional, reflecting Volvo’s Scandinavian design aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 2.4 AWD utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, while solid discs were used at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis was designed to provide a rigid platform, contributing to the car’s overall stability and handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 2.4 AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong safety credentials. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of some competitors, and the interior design, while functional, was not as luxurious as some other vehicles in its class. Compared to the S60 T5, the 2.4 offered a more affordable entry point into the S60 range, but at the expense of outright performance. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, averaging around 22 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, though some owners reported issues with the electronic climate control system.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 2.4 AWD has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable vehicle. The B5244T3 engine, while not without its quirks, is known for its longevity when properly maintained. Today, these cars can be found in the used car market at affordable prices. They represent a good value for buyers seeking a comfortable, safe, and reliable sedan with the added security of all-wheel drive. While not a performance icon, the S60 2.4 AWD remains a testament to Volvo’s commitment to safety, durability, and understated Scandinavian design.
