The Volvo S80 II facelift, specifically the 2.4 D5 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 premium offering, the 2.4 D5 Geartronic aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and refined long-distance cruiser. It occupied a middle ground in the S80 lineup, slotting between the lower-powered diesel options and the higher-output gasoline engines like the 3.2.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (205 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 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 255 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 205 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T10 |
| Engine displacement | 2400 cm3 (146.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.6 l (13.31 US qt | 11.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1647 kg (3631.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 553 kg (1219.16 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 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.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 2.4 D5 Geartronic is the D5244T10 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 efficiency. The D5244T10 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler further enhances performance by increasing air intake and reducing intake air temperature. The engine produces 205 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3250 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of the D5 engine family. The “Geartronic” transmission is a 6-speed automatic gearbox, offering smooth shifts and a selectable manual mode. It was designed to handle the engine’s torque output effectively and contribute to a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D5 Geartronic offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. The engine’s ample torque meant strong acceleration in everyday driving situations, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking around 8.1 seconds. While not a sports sedan, the S80 D5 provided sufficient power for confident highway merging and overtaking. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, which could be noticeable during more spirited driving. Compared to the 3.2-liter gasoline engine, the D5 offered significantly better fuel economy, but lacked the higher-revving character and outright power of the six-cylinder. Against other diesel variants, like the 2.0 D, the 2.4 D5 provided a noticeable step up in performance and refinement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 2.4 D5 Geartronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium vehicle. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a host of safety features like ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded interior trim options. The S80 prioritized comfort and safety, and the D5 Geartronic trim level offered a good balance of features for the price.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness. The 2.4 D5 Geartronic models typically featured disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS as standard. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, providing confident stopping power. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S80 2.4 D5 Geartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some critics noted that the styling was somewhat conservative and that the handling wasn’t as engaging as some of its rivals. Compared to competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, the S80 offered a different character – prioritizing comfort and safety over outright performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, consistently achieving around 35 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the electronic systems.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 2.4 D5 Geartronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D5 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of service. While not as sought-after as some other classic Volvos, the S80 D5 remains a comfortable and practical choice for buyers seeking a well-equipped and fuel-efficient sedan. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are reasonable. The S80 II facelift, including the 2.4 D5 Geartronic, represents a high point in Volvo’s sedan history, offering a blend of Scandinavian design, comfort, and reliability.
