The Volvo S60 2.4i 20V Automatic, produced between 2000 and 2005, represents a key iteration of Volvo’s first-generation S60 sedan (model year 2001-2009). Positioned as a mid-range offering within the S60 lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency with the convenience of an automatic transmission. It was a significant model for Volvo, embodying the company’s commitment to safety while appealing to a broader customer base seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience. The S60, built on Volvo’s P24 platform, was intended to replace the aging 850 and S70 models, offering a more modern and dynamic alternative in the competitive entry-level luxury sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4i 20V (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| 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) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 4500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B5244S |
| Engine displacement | 2435 cm3 (148.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1501 kg (3309.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 479 kg (1056.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 424 l (14.97 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1034 l (36.52 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4576 mm (180.16 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Height | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| 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 | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 2.4i Automatic is Volvo’s B5244S engine, a naturally aspirated, 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine, part of Volvo’s modular engine family, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. The “20V” designation indicates the engine’s 20-valve configuration – four valves per cylinder (DOHC). Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The B5244S engine was known for its relatively smooth operation and decent low-end torque. Paired with this engine was a 5-speed automatic transmission, offering convenient shifting for everyday driving. This transmission, while not particularly sporty, was reliable and contributed to the S60’s comfortable ride. The engine code ‘B5244S’ is crucial for identifying specific parts and maintenance requirements.
Driving Characteristics
The S60 2.4i Automatic delivered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. With 170 horsepower and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration was adequate for most driving situations, achieving 0-60 mph in around 9.1 seconds. However, it wasn’t a particularly quick car compared to some of its rivals. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract from the overall responsiveness. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort rather than outright performance. Compared to the available manual transmission or the higher-output turbocharged versions of the S60, the 2.4i Automatic felt noticeably less engaging. The power delivery was linear, but lacked the punch of the turbo engines. It was best suited for relaxed cruising and daily commuting.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 2.4i Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and ABS brakes. Safety was a Volvo hallmark, and even the base model included features like side airbags and whiplash protection system (WHIPS). Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, premium audio systems, and traction control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 2.4i Automatic represented a well-equipped mid-range option. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, though leather was available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and ergonomically designed, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 2.4i Automatic featured a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension in the front and a coil spring setup in the rear. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear, coupled with an ABS system. The braking performance was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly sporty. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 2.4i Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable, safe, and reliable sedan. However, it wasn’t often praised for its performance. Compared to the turbocharged S60 models (T5, T6), the 2.4i Automatic offered significantly less power and excitement. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, averaging around 24.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission over the long term. The 2.4i Automatic appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort, safety, and practicality over outright performance.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 2.4i Automatic remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. The B5244S engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can last for many years. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the automatic transmission, such as slipping or harsh shifting. Parts availability is generally good, and the S60’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it a relatively affordable car to maintain. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, the S60 2.4i Automatic offers a comfortable, safe, and reliable transportation option for those seeking a classic Volvo experience.
