The Volvo S80 II facelift, specifically the 2.0 D4 (181 hp) Geartronic variant, was produced from 2013 to 2016. This model represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation S80 (platform designation P24), Volvo’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and comfortable option within the S80 lineup, the D4 Geartronic aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and a smooth driving experience over outright performance. It served as a key offering in European markets, where diesel engines held significant popularity, and also saw limited sales in North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D4 (181 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 245.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 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) |
| 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 | 8 gears, automatic 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 (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 D4 Geartronic is the Volvo D4204T5, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Volvo’s VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) family, designed for modularity and efficiency. The D4204T5 utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A single turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting power and torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall performance. The Geartronic transmission is an 8-speed automatic, known for its smooth shifts and contribution to fuel economy. This transmission was sourced from Aisin, a Japanese automotive parts supplier.
Driving Characteristics
The 181 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque produced by the D4 powertrain provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 8 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 139.81 mph. The Geartronic transmission is programmed for comfort and efficiency, with gear changes generally smooth and unobtrusive. Compared to the higher-output D5 variants or the petrol-powered S80s, the D4 feels less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the strong low-end torque of the diesel engine makes it well-suited for everyday driving and cruising. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 D4 Geartronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium sedan. Standard features often included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a suite of safety features like City Safety (Volvo’s collision avoidance system). Higher trim levels added features such as navigation, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a rear parking camera, and various driver assistance systems. The interior design was characterized by Volvo’s Scandinavian aesthetic, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The S80 was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) as standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S80 D4 Geartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the D5, the D4 offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against competitors like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the S80 D4 offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in markets where diesel engines were favored. Fuel economy figures of around 52.3 US mpg combined made it an attractive option for those seeking a fuel-efficient luxury sedan.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 D4 Geartronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the D4 engine generally considered durable. Common issues are typically related to routine maintenance items, such as turbocharger wear and diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging. On the used car market, the S80 D4 Geartronic represents a good value for those seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient luxury sedan. Its understated styling and focus on practicality have given it a loyal following among buyers who appreciate a less ostentatious alternative to its German rivals. While no longer in production, the S80 D4 remains a testament to Volvo’s commitment to safety, comfort, and efficiency.
