The Volvo S80 II facelift, specifically the 2.4 D (175 hp) Geartronic variant, was produced from 2009 to 2011. This model represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation S80 (platform designation P24), Volvo’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the S80 lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for long-distance cruising, appealing to buyers prioritizing comfort and practicality over outright sportiness. The 2.4 D Geartronic served as a key diesel option in European markets, where diesel engines held a significant market share, and offered a more economical alternative to the gasoline-powered S80 variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D (175 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T14 |
| Engine displacement | 2400 cm3 (146.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.15 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.6 l (13.31 US qt | 11.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1566 kg (3452.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 634 kg (1397.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4851 mm (190.98 in.) |
| Width | 1861 mm (73.27 in.) |
| Height | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2835 mm (111.61 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Geartronic |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 2.4 D Geartronic is the Volvo D5244T14 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine is a direct descendant of Volvo’s long-running D5 series, known for its robustness and relatively simple design. The D5244T14 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque across a broad RPM range. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The Geartronic transmission is a 6-speed automatic, offering smooth shifts and a torque converter for enhanced drivability. It allows for manual gear selection, providing some driver control when desired.
Driving Characteristics
The 175 hp and 309.78 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.4 D engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.5 seconds, making it suitable for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Geartronic transmission is tuned for comfort, prioritizing smooth gear changes over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the higher-output D5 variants (typically around 200 hp), the 175 hp version feels less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lower power output also contributes to improved fuel economy. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing good pulling power from low engine speeds, which is beneficial for relaxed driving and towing (within the vehicle’s capacity). The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-weather capability of Volvo’s all-wheel-drive systems.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 D Geartronic trim typically included standard features such as automatic climate control, power windows and mirrors, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Safety features were a Volvo hallmark, and this model included ABS brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium audio system, a sunroof, and parking sensors. The interior design was characterized by Volvo’s Scandinavian aesthetic, emphasizing clean lines and functional ergonomics. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilized an independent suspension system at all four wheels. The front suspension employed McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension featured a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. The steering system was a rack and pinion type with power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S80 2.4 D Geartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a comfortable and practical executive sedan. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than gasoline. Compared to the more powerful S80 variants, the 2.4 D offered a more affordable entry point into the S80 range. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of its competitors, such as the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the Geartronic transmission.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 2.4 D Geartronic remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. The D5244T14 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and transmission problems. The S80 II, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represents a solid and comfortable executive sedan that offered a compelling blend of practicality, safety, and fuel efficiency. It continues to appeal to buyers seeking a well-built and reliable used car.
