The Volvo S60 2.4 D5, producing 163 horsepower, was a significant variant within the first generation (P24) S60 lineup, manufactured between 2000 and 2005. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and practical sedan. This model played a crucial role in establishing the S60 as a competitor in the premium compact executive car segment, particularly in European markets where diesel engines were highly favored. The S60, as a whole, represented Volvo’s move towards a more contemporary and dynamic design language, replacing the aging 850 and S70 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 (P24) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 103.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T9 |
| Engine displacement | 2401 cm3 (146.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| 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 D5 is the D5244T9 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine is a direct injection common rail diesel, meaning fuel is delivered to the cylinders at extremely high pressure via a common rail system, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The D5 engine family, developed by Volvo, was known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its longevity. The engine utilizes a turbocharger to boost power output, delivering 163 horsepower and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. This torque characteristic is particularly beneficial for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its power delivery. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The S60 2.4 D5 with the manual transmission offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The abundant low-end torque made it feel responsive in city driving, while the turbocharger provided a noticeable surge of power when accelerating onto highways. While not a sports sedan, the D5 offered sufficient performance for most drivers, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9 seconds. Compared to the higher-output petrol versions of the S60, the D5 prioritized fuel economy and usability over outright speed. The gear ratios in the 5-speed manual were well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, allowing for relaxed cruising at highway speeds. The manual transmission also provided a more engaging driving experience compared to the optional automatic transmission, which, while convenient, could feel somewhat sluggish.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 2.4 D5 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included power windows, power mirrors, central locking, and an AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, sunroof, automatic climate control, and premium audio systems. Safety was a key focus for Volvo, and the S60 2.4 D5 came standard with ABS brakes, side airbags, and a robust safety cage. The interior design was typically Scandinavian, characterized by clean lines, comfortable seats, and a user-friendly layout.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 2.4 D5 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at the front and a coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size was 205/55 R16, offering a good compromise between grip and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 2.4 D5 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and strong torque output. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy compared to some of its competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered S60 variants, the D5 offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who covered long distances. It also provided a more relaxed driving experience, thanks to the abundant low-end torque. In terms of reliability, the D5 engine proved to be quite durable, although regular maintenance was essential to prevent issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 2.4 D5 has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, and many examples are still on the road today. The D5 engine, in particular, has a reputation for longevity, provided it has been properly maintained. In the used car market, the S60 2.4 D5 represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and practical sedan at an affordable price. While it may not be as technologically advanced as more modern vehicles, its simple design and robust construction make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a dependable and fuel-efficient car.
