The Volvo S60 II 1.6 Drive (115 hp) was a variant of the second-generation Volvo S60, produced between 2010 and 2013. Positioned as the entry-level model in several European markets, it offered a fuel-efficient and relatively affordable option within the S60 lineup. This model was primarily aimed at drivers prioritizing economy and practicality over outright performance, and represented Volvo’s attempt to broaden the S60’s appeal in a segment increasingly focused on diesel efficiency. It utilized the Volvo’s P24 platform, shared with other models like the V60 and XC60.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Drive (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4162T |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1488 kg (3280.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 542 kg (1194.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67.5 l (17.83 US gal | 14.85 UK gal) |
| Length | 4628 mm (182.2 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm (109.29 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The S60 1.6 Drive utilized the Volvo D4162T, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was part of Volvo’s new generation of modular engines, designed for flexibility and efficiency. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and employed a common-rail direct fuel injection system for optimized combustion. The engine produced 115 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque band provided reasonable responsiveness for everyday driving. The engine met Euro 5 emission standards, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce particulate matter emissions. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Drive offered a comfortable, but not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, making it slower than higher-powered S60 variants like the T5 or T6. The focus was on fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising. The manual transmission, while offering driver engagement, had relatively long throws. The gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine often needed to be revved to maintain speed when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to the more powerful petrol engines, the 1.6 Drive lacked the immediate responsiveness and refined power delivery. However, the ample low-end torque made it suitable for urban driving and highway cruising, where maintaining momentum was more important than outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Drive typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, though it was less lavishly equipped than the higher-end S60 trims. Standard features generally included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a hallmark of Volvo, were comprehensive, including ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, a more advanced audio system, and parking sensors. The interior trim was generally functional and well-built, but lacked the premium materials found in the higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was typical of Volvo at the time, with a clean and intuitive design.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 1.6 Drive utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over most road surfaces. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was designed to balance comfort and handling, prioritizing stability and predictability over sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 1.6 Drive was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical option. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but criticized for its relatively slow acceleration. Compared to other trims in the S60 lineup, such as the T5 (2.5-liter petrol) or the D3 (2.0-liter diesel), the 1.6 Drive offered lower running costs but compromised on performance. The D3, while also a diesel, provided more power and torque. The T5 offered a significantly more engaging driving experience. In terms of reliability, the D4162T engine proved to be generally robust, although the DPF could require maintenance over time. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with combined figures around 54.7 US mpg.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 1.6 Drive represents a period where Volvo was actively pursuing fuel efficiency and broadening its market appeal. While not a performance icon, it provided a sensible and economical option for buyers prioritizing practicality and low running costs. On the used car market, these models are generally affordable and represent good value for money, provided they have been well-maintained. The D4162T engine, while not without its potential issues (particularly related to the DPF), has proven to be reasonably durable. The S60 II, in general, is considered a well-built and safe vehicle, and the 1.6 Drive variant remains a viable option for those seeking a comfortable and economical sedan.
