The Volvo S80 II facelift, specifically the 2.0 D3 variant producing 136 horsepower, was a key model in Volvo’s lineup from 2013 to 2016. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the S80 range, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and Volvo’s renowned safety features. This iteration of the S80, built on the P24 platform, represented a significant update to the second-generation model, focusing on refining the exterior styling and enhancing the interior technology. The D3 trim was primarily marketed in Europe, where demand for diesel-powered, efficient luxury sedans was high.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D3 (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-2300 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5204T7 |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 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 | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1629 kg (3591.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 461 kg (1016.33 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 | 4854 mm (191.1 in.) |
| Width | 1907 mm (75.08 in.) |
| Height | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2835 mm (111.61 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) | 151 mm (5.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 D3 is the Volvo D5204T7, a 2.0-liter inline-five cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Volvo’s modular engine family, designed for flexibility and efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with an intercooler, enhancing power output and reducing turbo lag. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further contributes to the engine’s breathing efficiency. The D3 variant was tuned to produce 136 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2300 rpm. This torque curve provides good low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for everyday driving. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp D3, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, offered a comfortable and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 127.38 mph. While not a performance-oriented trim, the D3 provided adequate power for highway cruising and overtaking. The manual gearbox allowed for driver engagement, but the relatively long gearing prioritized fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. Compared to the higher-output D4 or petrol variants, the D3 felt noticeably less powerful, especially at higher speeds. However, its strength lay in its fuel economy and relaxed driving character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 D3 typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system, and Volvo’s City Safety system, which offered automatic braking at low speeds to mitigate collisions. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Higher trim levels added features like leather seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and parking sensors. The dashboard layout was typical of Volvo’s Scandinavian design philosophy – clean, functional, and focused on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 D3 utilized an independent suspension setup at both the front (McPherson strut) and rear (multi-link). This provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were also ventilated discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and refined driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S80 D3 was well-received in European markets as a practical and efficient luxury sedan. Critics praised its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and standard safety features. However, some noted that its performance was modest compared to its rivals. Compared to the more powerful D4 or petrol-powered S80 variants, the D3 offered a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of around 54.7 US mpg combined was a significant selling point, particularly in countries with high fuel taxes.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 D3, while not the most powerful or dynamic version of the S80, remains a reliable and economical used car option. The D5204T7 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability. Common issues include DPF clogging (particularly with frequent short trips) and potential wear and tear on the turbocharger. However, these are generally manageable with regular servicing. Today, the S80 D3 represents a comfortable and safe entry point into Volvo ownership, offering a blend of Scandinavian design, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
