The Volvo S60 II 2.4 D5, produced from 2010 to 2013, represents a significant iteration of Volvo’s mid-size executive sedan. Positioned as a premium offering within the second-generation S60 (designated the 134 chassis), the 2.4 D5 variant was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines held a substantial share of the executive car segment. It offered a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and Volvo’s renowned safety features. This model year saw Volvo continuing to refine the S60, building upon the foundation laid by the initial 2010 launch and solidifying its position against competitors like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (215 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 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) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 136.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 267.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 215 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T11 |
| Engine displacement | 2400 cm3 (146.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.15 mm (3.67 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 | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1571 kg (3463.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 519 kg (1144.2 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 (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 336 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 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 2.4 D5 is the Volvo D5244T11 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine is a descendant of Volvo’s long-running D5 series, known for its robustness and efficiency. The D5244T11 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque across a broad RPM range. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its strong performance. The 215 horsepower peak is achieved at 4000 rpm, while the substantial 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque is available from a low 1500 rpm, providing excellent responsiveness. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was available on other S60 II models, the 2.4 D5 was primarily offered with the manual gearbox in Europe.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D5 with the 6-speed manual transmission offers a compelling driving experience. The high torque output at low engine speeds makes it exceptionally easy to drive in everyday situations, with minimal gear changes required for typical urban and highway driving. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 7 seconds, which is respectable for a diesel-powered sedan. The manual gearbox provides a direct and engaging feel, allowing drivers to fully utilize the engine’s power band. Compared to the gasoline-powered S60 variants, the D5 offers superior fuel economy and a more relaxed cruising experience. However, it lacks the outright responsiveness and higher revving nature of the petrol engines. The gear ratios are well-chosen to balance acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively long sixth gear for comfortable highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 II 2.4 D5 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, such as the SE or Executive, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like City Safety (Volvo’s automatic braking system). Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was clean and Scandinavian in design, prioritizing functionality and simplicity.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 336mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 302mm. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The chassis is designed to provide good rigidity and minimize body roll. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 II 2.4 D5 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and strong performance. The diesel engine was seen as a particularly good fit for long-distance driving. Compared to the gasoline-powered S60 variants, the D5 offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for fleet buyers and drivers who prioritized running costs. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine was slightly noisier than the petrol engines. Against its German rivals, the S60 II 2.4 D5 offered a compelling alternative, often at a more competitive price point.
Legacy
The D5244T11 engine has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powertrain. Well-maintained examples of the S60 II 2.4 D5 continue to be relatively common on the used car market. The engine is known for its longevity, and with regular servicing, it can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on components like the turbocharger and fuel injectors, but these are generally repairable. The S60 II 2.4 D5 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, efficient, and reliable executive sedan.
