The Volvo S60 II (facelift, introduced in 2013) 1.6 T4F, producing 180 horsepower and designed to run on gasoline and ethanol blends (like E85), represented a key offering in Volvo’s compact executive sedan lineup. Produced from 2013 through 2018, this variant occupied a middle ground within the S60 range, positioned as a more fuel-efficient and accessible alternative to the higher-performance T5 and T6 models. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where fuel costs and environmental concerns were prominent, offering a balance between performance and economy. The “T4F” designation signifies a four-cylinder turbocharged engine optimized for flexible-fuel operation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T4F (180 Hp) Ethanol |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (Ethanol – E85) | 9.3 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 157 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (Ethanol – E85) | 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1620-4980 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1620-4980 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4164T2 |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| 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 | 1588-1578 mm (62.52 – 62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585-1575 mm (62.4 – 62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type 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 T4F is the Volvo B4164T2 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger to achieve its 180 horsepower output. The direct injection system, a key feature, allows for precise fuel delivery, improving both efficiency and performance. The turbocharger provides a boost in power, particularly at lower engine speeds, mitigating some of the limitations of the relatively small displacement. The engine is designed to operate effectively on both gasoline and E85 ethanol fuel, thanks to its flexible-fuel capability. This flexibility was a significant selling point in markets with incentives for biofuel use. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing drivers with full control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T4F S60 offered a comfortable and relatively efficient driving experience. While not as quick as the T5 or T6 models, the 180 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 7.9 seconds, which was competitive within its class. The turbocharger did result in some turbo lag, but the broad torque curve (240 Nm available from 1620-4980 rpm) helped to minimize this effect. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for precise gear changes, and the gear ratios were well-suited for both city and highway driving. Compared to the automatic transmissions offered on other S60 variants, the manual provided a more engaging driving experience and slightly better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T4F trim typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included features like automatic climate control, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and standard safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available as upgrades. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a premium audio system, navigation, sunroof, and parking sensors. The dashboard layout was typical of Volvo’s Scandinavian design aesthetic, emphasizing simplicity and functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporated an anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 1.6 T4F was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the compact executive sedan segment. It was praised for its comfortable ride, stylish interior, and standard safety features. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the higher-performance T5 and T6 models. Compared to the T5, the 1.6 T4F offered better fuel economy but slower acceleration. The T5, with its 250 horsepower, was the clear choice for drivers prioritizing performance. The 1.6 T4F’s flexible-fuel capability was a unique selling point, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking to take advantage of lower ethanol fuel prices.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 II 1.6 T4F has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The B4164T2 engine, while not without its potential issues (such as occasional turbocharger problems), is generally considered to be durable and long-lasting. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial for ensuring its longevity. Today, these S60s represent an affordable entry point into the Volvo brand, offering a blend of Scandinavian style, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Their flexible-fuel capability continues to be a benefit in regions where ethanol is readily available and competitively priced.
