The Volvo S60 II facelift, specifically the 2.0 D4 (181 hp) Automatic variant, represents a significant iteration of Volvo’s mid-size executive sedan. Produced from 2013 to 2015, this model occupied a key position within the S60 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and Volvo’s renowned safety features. It was part of the second-generation S60 (internally designated as the 134 platform), which received a substantial facelift in 2013, bringing updated styling, improved technology, and revised engine options. The D4 Automatic aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and economical daily driver without sacrificing the premium feel associated with the Volvo brand.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D4 (181 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1740-2520 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1740-2520 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4204T5 |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 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 track | 1585-1575 mm (62.4 – 62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 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 D4 Automatic is Volvo’s D4204T5 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Volvo’s VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) family, designed for modularity and efficiency. The D4204T5 utilizes a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was a key component in maximizing fuel economy and providing smooth gear changes. This transmission offered a wide range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate efficiently at various speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 181 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque produced by the D4 powertrain provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 7 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The eight-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, offering smooth and responsive shifts. However, compared to the more powerful S60 T5 (gasoline) or the S60 D6 (twin-turbo diesel) models, the D4 Automatic felt less urgent in its acceleration. The focus was clearly on fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising. The gear ratios were optimized for highway driving, providing comfortable and quiet operation at higher speeds. While a manual transmission was available on some S60 D4 models, the automatic was favored by many buyers for its convenience and ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 D4 Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting Volvo’s commitment to safety and comfort. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a suite of safety technologies such as City Safety (Volvo’s automatic braking system), stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, heated seats, and a rear parking camera. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally, the D4 Automatic sat in the mid-range of the S60 lineup, offering a step up in refinement and features compared to the base models, but lacking some of the luxury appointments found in the higher-end trims.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The D4 Automatic, being a front-wheel-drive model, did not offer the all-wheel-drive option available on some other S60 variants. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, along with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 D4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and high levels of safety. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its gasoline counterparts. Compared to competitors such as the Audi A4 TDI and BMW 320d, the S60 D4 Automatic offered a compelling alternative, particularly for buyers who prioritized comfort and value. Its fuel economy of around 56 mpg combined made it an attractive option for those seeking to minimize running costs. Reliability was generally good, with the D4 engine proving to be durable and long-lasting.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 II D4 Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The D4 engine, while not known for blistering performance, has a reputation for longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be robust. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, safe, and fuel-efficient executive sedan. While newer models offer more advanced technology and features, the S60 D4 Automatic remains a capable and well-regarded vehicle, demonstrating Volvo’s commitment to building quality automobiles.
