The Volvo S60 II facelift, produced from 2013 to 2015, represented a significant refresh of Volvo’s popular mid-size sedan. Among the engine options available, the 2.4 D5 turbodiesel paired with a six-speed automatic transmission was a prominent offering, particularly in European markets. This variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to drivers seeking a comfortable and economical grand tourer. It sat within the S60 II range as a mid-to-upper trim level, offering a step up in power and refinement compared to the lower-displacement engines, but positioned below the more performance-focused T6 variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (215 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 261.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 215 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T15 |
| 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 | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 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 | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this S60 variant is the Volvo D5244T15 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay of Volvo’s lineup for many years, is renowned for its robustness and relatively simple design. The ‘D5’ designation signifies a five-cylinder diesel with direct injection. The D5244T15 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output, providing 215 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin Warner, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability. It’s a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D5 automatic S60 offers a relaxed and refined driving experience. The abundant low-end torque makes it effortless to drive in everyday situations, with strong acceleration from a standstill and ample power for overtaking. While not a sports sedan, the 7.6-second 0-62 mph acceleration is respectable. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, though it can sometimes feel hesitant when downshifting for quicker responses. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the D5, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use. Against the higher-output T6 models (with their turbocharged petrol engines), the D5 automatic is noticeably slower, but offers significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and cruising comfort, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 D5 automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a Volvo hallmark, were comprehensive, including ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim materials. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, the D5 automatic represented a well-equipped mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base models and the luxury-focused trims.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporates an anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis was tuned to prioritize comfort and stability, rather than outright sportiness, reflecting the car’s grand touring character.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 2.4 D5 automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and excellent fuel economy. The diesel engine was noted for its quiet operation and strong performance. However, some critics found the automatic transmission to be slightly sluggish compared to the manual gearbox. Compared to rivals like the Audi A4 TDI and BMW 320d, the S60 D5 offered a compelling alternative, often at a slightly lower price point. Its fuel economy was competitive, and its safety credentials were consistently high.
Legacy
The D5244T15 engine, and the S60 II generation as a whole, have proven to be remarkably reliable. The engine is known for its durability, and with regular maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The automatic transmission, while not without its quirks, is also generally dependable. On the used car market, the S60 2.4 D5 automatic remains a popular choice, particularly for those seeking a comfortable, economical, and safe sedan. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are reasonable, making it a practical and appealing option for budget-conscious buyers. The combination of Volvo’s reputation for safety and the D5 engine’s longevity ensures that these cars continue to hold their value and provide years of reliable service.
