The Volvo S60 II (facelift 2013) 2.0 D2, producing 120 horsepower, was a key variant in Volvo’s compact executive sedan lineup from 2015 to 2018. Positioned as an entry-level offering, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and affordability within the broader S60 range, which also included more powerful gasoline and diesel options. This model represented Volvo’s continued commitment to downsizing and improving fuel economy while maintaining Scandinavian design principles and a focus on safety. It was primarily sold in the European market, where demand for efficient diesel engines remained strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D2 (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 year |
| End of production | 2018 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 3.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 63.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 76.3 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 27 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 96 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 121.17 mph |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 76.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 178.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-2250 rpm |
| Torque | 206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2250 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 3750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4204T8 |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 120.16 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.23 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm |
| Piston Stroke | 3.67 in. |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt |
| Coolant | 8.9 l |
| Coolant | 9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1568 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 3456.85 lbs |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg |
| Max. weight | 4607.66 lbs |
| Max load | 522 kg |
| Max load | 1150.81 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 13.42 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1749 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 61.77 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67.5 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 17.83 US gal | 14.85 UK gal |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg |
| Max. roof load | 165.35 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3527.4 lbs |
| Length | 4635 mm |
| Length | 182.48 in. |
| Width | 1865 mm |
| Width | 73.43 in. |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1899 mm |
| Width with mirrors folded | 74.76 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2097 mm |
| Width including mirrors | 82.56 in. |
| Height | 1484 mm |
| Height | 58.43 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm |
| Wheelbase | 109.29 in. |
| Front track | 1588 mm |
| Front track | 62.52 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm |
| Rear (Back) track | 62.4 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 5.35 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 37.07 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 II D2 is Volvo’s D4204T8 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Volvo’s VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) family, designed for modularity and efficiency. The D2 variant utilizes a single turbocharger and a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering 120 horsepower and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2250 rpm. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, contributing to its durability and relatively lightweight construction. The D4204T8 engine incorporates a particulate filter to meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its efficiency and lower cost compared to the available automatic option.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp 2.0 D2, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, offered a practical, though not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.2 seconds. The engine’s torque delivery was focused on the lower to mid-range, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. However, it lacked the punch of the higher-output diesel and gasoline variants. The manual gearbox provided precise shifts, but the relatively long gearing emphasized fuel economy over rapid acceleration. Compared to the more powerful S60 models, the D2 felt noticeably slower, especially at higher speeds. The focus was on maximizing miles per gallon rather than providing a thrilling driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 II D2 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included features like climate control, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, EBD, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels offered features like a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and parking sensors. The D2 trim often served as a base for customers who prioritized affordability and fuel efficiency, with optional packages available to add comfort and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II D2 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. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, with ABS providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The chassis was designed to balance handling with ride comfort, offering predictable behavior in most driving situations. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 II D2 was generally well-received as an economical and practical option within the S60 range. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the more powerful S60 variants, such as the D4 or T5, the D2 offered significantly less power and acceleration. However, it was more affordable to purchase and operate. The D2 competed with other entry-level compact executive sedans, such as the Audi A3 Sedan and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, offering a compelling combination of fuel economy, safety, and Scandinavian design.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 II D2 (120 hp) has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D4204T8 engine, while not known for exceptional performance, is generally durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) problems, particularly on vehicles that primarily see short trips, and occasional issues with the fuel injection system. Overall, the S60 II D2 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient, and safe compact executive sedan.
