The Volvo S60 II 2.0 D3 Geartronic, produced between 2010 and 2013, represented a key entry point into the second-generation S60 lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and comfortable option, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality within the premium compact executive sedan segment. This variant utilized Volvo’s 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a balance between performance and efficiency. It was part of the 134 chassis series, sharing its platform with other Volvo models of the era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D3 (163 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-2750 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5204T2 |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1582 kg (3487.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 508 kg (1119.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67.5 l (17.83 US gal | 14.85 UK gal) |
| Length | 4628 mm (182.2 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm (109.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 336 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 302 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 II D3 Geartronic is Volvo’s D5204T2 engine, a 2.0-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, providing a relatively responsive driving experience for a diesel engine. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficiency and power output. The six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission is a conventional torque converter automatic, known for its smooth shifts and reliability. It’s programmed for fuel efficiency, with taller gear ratios in the higher gears to reduce engine speed at highway cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the D3 powertrain resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 8.7 seconds, and a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). While not a performance-oriented variant, the D3 offered sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, and the engine could feel slightly strained when pushed hard. Compared to the higher-output D5 or petrol variants, the D3 prioritized fuel economy and refinement over outright performance. The gear ratios were optimized for maximizing fuel efficiency, which meant the engine didn’t always feel as lively as some of its siblings.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 II D3 Geartronic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a hallmark of Volvo, were comprehensive, including ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium audio system, navigation, and parking sensors. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, the D3 Geartronic was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base models and the more luxurious trims.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure for this trim level. Electric power steering offered a light and easy steering feel, although it lacked the feedback of a hydraulic system. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 II 2.0 D3 Geartronic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice within the premium sedan segment. Its fuel economy of around 48 US mpg combined was a significant selling point. Compared to the more powerful D5 variant, the D3 offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against competitors like the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics and Audi A4 2.0 TDI, the Volvo offered a strong value proposition, particularly in terms of standard safety equipment and comfortable ride quality. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, common in modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 II 2.0 D3 Geartronic remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. The D5204T2 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure regular servicing has been carried out. The Geartronic transmission is generally reliable, but fluid changes are crucial for longevity. Today, these S60s offer a comfortable and economical way to experience Volvo’s renowned safety and build quality, making them a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a premium sedan.
