The Volvo S60 II (facelift, introduced in 2013) 1.6 T4F, producing 180 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, represented a key offering in Volvo’s compact executive sedan lineup. Produced from 2013 through 2018, this variant was specifically tailored for markets embracing flex-fuel capabilities, particularly in Europe and South America. It sat within the broader S60 II range, which was based on the Volvo Y20 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), offering a balance between efficiency, performance, and Volvo’s renowned safety features. The “T4F” designation signifies a turbocharged four-cylinder engine optimized for flexible-fuel operation, capable of running on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T4F (180 Hp) Ethanol Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (Ethanol – E85) | 9.4 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (Ethanol – E85) | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1620-4980 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1620-4980 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4164T2 |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt | 8.62 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67.5 l (17.83 US gal | 14.85 UK gal) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm (109.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1588-1578 mm (62.52 – 62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585-1575 mm (62.4 – 62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 1.6 T4F is the Volvo B4164T2 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger to achieve its 180 horsepower output. The direct injection system, a key feature, allows for precise fuel delivery, improving both efficiency and performance. The turbocharger provides a boost in power, particularly at lower engine speeds, mitigating some of the limitations of the relatively small displacement. The engine is designed to operate efficiently on both gasoline and E85 ethanol fuel, with the engine control unit (ECU) automatically adjusting parameters based on the fuel composition detected. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to the car’s ease of driving. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it was well-regarded for its reliability and responsiveness within the context of this engine’s power output.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T4F automatic S60 delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.6 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t position it as a performance-oriented variant. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, sometimes at the expense of aggressive downshifts. Compared to the higher-output T5 or T6 models, the 1.6 T4F feels noticeably less powerful, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the turbocharger does provide a useful surge of torque at lower RPMs, making it feel more responsive than a naturally aspirated engine of similar displacement. The gear ratios are optimized for cruising, making it a pleasant vehicle for long highway journeys. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it lacks the all-wheel-drive stability of some other S60 variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T4F typically came equipped as a mid-range trim level. Standard features generally included climate control, a basic infotainment system with a color display, power windows and locks, and a suite of safety features including ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available as upgrades. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, navigation system, and parking sensors. Volvo’s City Safety system, which automatically applies the brakes at low speeds to mitigate or avoid collisions, was often included as standard or an available option.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilizes an independent suspension system on all four wheels, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The 1.6 T4F variant typically featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 1.6 T4F was generally well-received as a practical and efficient option within the compact executive sedan segment. Critics praised its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and standard safety features. However, some reviewers noted that its performance was somewhat underwhelming compared to its rivals and higher-powered S60 variants. Compared to the 2.0-liter T5 model, the 1.6 T4F offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The T5, with its higher horsepower and torque, provided a more engaging driving experience. The 1.6 T4F’s flex-fuel capability was a significant selling point in markets where ethanol was readily available and competitively priced.
Legacy
The B4164T2 engine, while not known for being a high-performance unit, has proven to be relatively reliable in the long term. Common issues are typically related to turbocharger wear or fuel system components, but these are generally manageable with regular maintenance. In the used car market, the S60 1.6 T4F represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, safe, and fuel-efficient sedan. Its flex-fuel capability can also be an advantage, depending on local fuel prices. While it may not offer the same level of performance as some of its competitors, its blend of practicality, safety, and affordability has ensured its continued appeal in the used car market.
