The Volvo S60 II (facelift, introduced in 2013) 1.6 D2 with 115 horsepower and an automatic transmission represented an entry-level offering within the second-generation S60 lineup. Produced from 2013 to 2015, this variant aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and accessible option for buyers in the European market, where diesel engines held significant popularity. It slotted below the more powerful D4 and D5 models, focusing on economy rather than outright performance. The facelift brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the S60 range, solidifying its position as a stylish and safe mid-size sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 D2 (115 Hp) Automatic start/stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (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 | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.2 kg/Hp, 70.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 165.1 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.1 l (11.73 US qt | 9.77 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 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 | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 1.6 D2 was the Volvo D4162T engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, operating two valves per cylinder. The D4162T was designed with efficiency in mind, featuring a relatively high compression ratio of 16:1. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for urban driving. The transmission was calibrated for fuel economy, with relatively long gear ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.6 D2 automatic powertrain resulted in a driving experience focused on fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising rather than spirited performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.7 seconds, and 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 12.3 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, and the engine could feel strained when attempting rapid acceleration. Compared to the more powerful D4 and D5 variants, the D2 felt noticeably slower. However, the engine delivered adequate torque for everyday driving situations, and the long gear ratios helped to keep engine speeds low at highway speeds, contributing to fuel economy. The automatic transmission prioritized smooth shifts over sporty responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 1.6 D2 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, though it was positioned as the entry point to the S60 range. Standard features generally included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a Volvo hallmark, 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 offered packages that added convenience and luxury features. The interior typically featured cloth upholstery and a functional, if not overly luxurious, dashboard design.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride quality. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The chassis was designed to balance handling with ride comfort, prioritizing stability and predictability over sporty agility. The weight distribution was fairly balanced, contributing to neutral handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 1.6 D2 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. Its low CO2 emissions and impressive fuel economy were key selling points, particularly in Europe where diesel vehicles were favored and subject to emissions-based taxation. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, especially compared to the more powerful engine options available in the S60 lineup. The D4, with its higher horsepower and torque, offered a significantly more engaging driving experience. The D2’s main advantage lay in its lower purchase price and running costs. Reliability was generally good, typical of Volvo’s reputation for build quality.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 1.6 D2 Automatic, while not the most exciting variant in the S60 II range, proved to be a popular choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and affordability. The D4162T engine, while relatively simple in design, proved to be reasonably durable. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and safe driving experience at a relatively low price point. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical maintenance requirements for diesel engines, including regular servicing of the fuel injection system and particulate filter. The longevity of the automatic transmission is generally good, but it’s important to check for smooth shifting and any signs of wear or slippage.
