The Volvo S60 II facelift, specifically the 2.0 D4 variant producing 181 horsepower, was a key model in Volvo’s lineup from 2013 to 2015. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and refined option within the S60 range, it aimed to balance performance with economy, appealing to buyers seeking a premium sedan experience without the higher running costs associated with more powerful engines. This iteration of the S60, built on the Y20 platform (internally known as the 1HX0), represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation S60, introducing styling updates and revised engine options to maintain competitiveness in the crowded executive sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D4 (181 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 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 |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1740-2520 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1740-2520 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4204T5 |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 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 track | 1585-1575 mm (62.4 – 62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 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 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 D4 is Volvo’s D4204T5 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Volvo’s VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) family, designed for modularity and efficiency. The D4204T5 utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wide rev range. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing drivers with precise control over the engine’s power delivery. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque, making it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers.
Driving Characteristics
The 181 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque produced by the D4 engine provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 7.4 seconds, which was respectable for a diesel-powered sedan of this class. The engine’s strong low-end torque meant that the S60 D4 felt responsive in city driving and provided ample power for highway cruising. Compared to the higher-output D5 variants, the D4 offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. The manual transmission, while engaging, had relatively long throws. The gear ratios were tuned to maximize fuel economy, which sometimes meant the engine felt slightly strained during aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 D4 typically came well-equipped, even in base trim. Standard features included climate control, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Safety was a key focus for Volvo, and the S60 D4 included a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and advanced driver-assistance systems like City Safety (Volvo’s automatic braking system).
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. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 D4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the punch of its competitors and that the interior design, while elegant, was starting to feel dated compared to newer rivals. Compared to the more powerful D5 and petrol-powered T5 variants, the D4 offered a more affordable entry point into the S60 range, appealing to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality. Its fuel economy of around 62 mpg combined made it a compelling alternative to other premium sedans.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 D4 (2013-2015) has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D4 engine, while not without its potential issues (such as diesel particulate filter problems common to many modern diesels), is generally considered durable and long-lasting when properly maintained. The S60’s reputation for safety and build quality continues to make it a popular choice among used car buyers. Today, these models represent a good value proposition for those seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and safe premium sedan.
