The Volvo S40 II (facelift 2007) 1.6 D2, produced from 2011 to 2012, represented an entry-level offering within the second generation of Volvo’s compact executive sedan. Positioned as a fuel-efficient alternative in the S40 lineup, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and lower running costs. This variant utilized a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 115 horsepower, and was primarily sold in European markets where diesel engines held significant popularity. It was part of the broader S40 II range, which also included petrol engines and more powerful diesel options, all built on Volvo’s shared platform with the Mazda 3, known internally as the Y20 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 |
| Generation | S40 II (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 D2 (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 year |
| End of production | 2012 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – 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 | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4162T |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1383 kg (3048.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 497 kg (1095.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 404 l (14.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4476 mm (176.22 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 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, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S40 1.6 D2 is the Volvo D4162T engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Volvo’s modular engine family, developed in collaboration with Peugeot-Citroën. It features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine utilizes four valves per cylinder and an overhead camshaft. The 115 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque are respectable figures for a small displacement diesel, providing adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce harmful emissions. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and lower cost compared to an automatic option.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 D2 automatic S40 offers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.8 seconds, making it suitable for urban and highway driving, but not for rapid overtaking. The engine’s torque peak is available from 1750-2500 rpm, providing good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.6 D2 feels noticeably less energetic, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, the trade-off is significantly improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S40 1.6 D2 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with CD player, and ABS brakes. Safety features, a hallmark of Volvo, were also standard, including airbags and stability control. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally focused on adding cosmetic enhancements and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The S40 II utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S40 1.6 D2 was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. It was seen as a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a compact executive sedan. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of its larger counterparts. Compared to the 2.0-liter diesel models, the 1.6 D2 offered significantly better fuel economy (around 54.7 US mpg combined) but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the S40 1.6 D2 offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in terms of safety and practicality.
Legacy
The Volvo S40 1.6 D2 powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. The D4162T engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, is generally considered durable and long-lasting. On the used car market, these models represent an affordable entry point into Volvo ownership. However, potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements of diesel engines, including regular servicing of the DPF and fuel system. The S40 1.6 D2 remains a popular choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient and practical compact sedan with a reputation for safety.
