The Volvo S40 II facelift, specifically the 2.5 T5 Geartronic variant, represents a compelling blend of Scandinavian design, turbocharged performance, and practical usability. Produced from 2011 to 2012, this model year falls within the latter stages of the second-generation S40 (introduced in 2004), benefitting from the mid-cycle refresh that enhanced both its aesthetics and technological offerings. Positioned as a near-top-of-the-line trim, the 2.5 T5 Geartronic offered a significant performance upgrade over the base 1.6 and 2.0 liter models, while providing the convenience of an automatic transmission. It served as a direct competitor to other compact executive sedans like the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, and Acura TSX in the North American market, though Volvo’s emphasis remained on safety and a more understated luxury experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S40 |
| Generation | S40 II (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 T5 (230 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 211 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 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 230 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-5000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5254T7 |
| 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 | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 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 | 4476 mm (176.22 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2022 mm (79.61 in.) |
| Height | 1454 mm (57.24 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 | 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 | 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 T5 Geartronic is the Volvo B5254T7 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a descendant of Volvo’s long-running white block engine family, known for its robustness and tunability. The ‘T5’ designation signifies the presence of a light-pressure turbocharger and intercooler, boosting power output to 230 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1500 rpm through to 5000 rpm. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing breathing and contributing to its power delivery. The engine’s 9:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The Geartronic transmission is a 5-speed automatic gearbox, offering smooth shifts and a selectable manual mode for more driver involvement.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 T5 Geartronic delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience than the lower-powered S40 variants. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.8 seconds, and the car feels responsive in everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission, while convenient, isn’t as quick to downshift as a manual gearbox, but the selectable manual mode allows drivers to maintain more control. The turbocharger provides a noticeable surge of power, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides adequate traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, but it’s not as sporty as some of its competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S40 T5 Geartronic typically came well-equipped as a higher-trim level. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and alloy wheels. Safety features were, as with all Volvos, a priority, and included ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio options. The interior design was typically Scandinavian – clean, functional, and focused on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The S40 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The T5 model typically featured a thicker front stabilizer bar compared to the base models, reducing body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S40 T5 Geartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong engine performance. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission wasn’t as responsive as some competitors, and the front-wheel-drive configuration limited its handling capabilities. Compared to the base S40 models, the T5 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, though some owners reported minor issues with the electronic systems.
Legacy
The Volvo S40 II, including the 2.5 T5 Geartronic variant, has established a reputation as a reliable and practical compact executive sedan. The B5254T7 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of service. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and safety at an affordable price. While not as common as some of its German competitors, the S40 T5 Geartronic remains a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and dependable vehicle.
