The Volvo S40 II 2.5 Geartronic, produced between 2004 and 2007, represented a significant step forward for Volvo’s compact sedan offering. Positioned as a near-premium option within the S40 range, it slotted above the base 1.8L and 2.0L models, offering a substantial performance upgrade. This variant was part of the second generation S40 (internally designated as the 445 chassis), which shared its platform with the Mazda 3, a result of Volvo’s ownership by Ford at the time. The S40 II aimed to attract buyers seeking a blend of Scandinavian safety, comfort, and a more engaging driving experience than typically found in its class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 |
| Generation | S40 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (220 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 228.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-4800 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5254T3 |
| Engine displacement | 2521 cm3 (153.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1403 kg (3093.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 557 kg (1227.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 404 l (14.27 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 883 l (31.18 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4468 mm (175.91 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 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 | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S40 II 2.5 Geartronic is the Volvo B5254T3 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine, part of Volvo’s modular engine family, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. The B5254T3 utilizes a light-pressure turbocharger with an intercooler, providing a broad torque curve and responsive power delivery. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine’s valvetrain employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased performance. The Geartronic transmission is a 5-speed automatic gearbox, offering smooth shifts and a torque converter for enhanced drivability. It featured adaptive shift logic, attempting to learn the driver’s style for optimized gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 220 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque provided by the B5254T3 engine gave the S40 II 2.5 Geartronic a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 6.8 seconds. While not a sports car, this performance was significantly better than the base engine options. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did introduce some power loss compared to the available manual transmission. Gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy. The turbocharger provided noticeable boost, resulting in strong mid-range acceleration. However, some drivers noted a degree of turbo lag, particularly at lower engine speeds. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, but could exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S40 II 2.5 Geartronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a higher-trim level. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, power windows and locks, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a Volvo hallmark, were comprehensive, including ABS brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio options. Interior trim levels varied, with options for different wood or metallic finishes. The dashboard layout was typically clean and functional, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The S40 II utilized an independent suspension system at all four wheels. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear featured a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and reasonably controlled handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. Steering was rack-and-pinion with power assistance, offering precise control and a comfortable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S40 II 2.5 Geartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong performance. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel slightly sluggish compared to the manual option. Compared to its rivals, such as the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series, the S40 offered a compelling value proposition, providing a similar level of refinement and performance at a lower price point. Fuel economy, at around 25 mpg combined, was competitive for its class, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electronic systems.
Legacy
The Volvo S40 II 2.5 Geartronic remains a relatively affordable and practical used car option today. The B5254T3 engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. Regular oil changes and timely servicing are crucial to prevent issues. While the Geartronic transmission is generally reliable, it’s important to check for smooth shifting and any signs of slippage. The S40 II’s blend of Scandinavian design, safety features, and turbocharged performance has ensured its continued appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable compact sedan.
