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, producing 215 horsepower, with a six-speed manual transmission, was a key 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 in the mid-range of the S60 lineup, offering more power and refinement than the lower-spec engines, but remaining more accessible than the top-tier T6 gasoline models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (215 Hp) 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) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 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) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 251.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 215 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T11 |
| 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 | 1669 kg (3679.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421 kg (928.15 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 | 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 this S60 variant is the Volvo D5244T11, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a staple of Volvo’s lineup for many years, is renowned for its durability and smooth power delivery. The D5 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance, boosting power output to 215 horsepower and a substantial 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficient operation. The six-speed manual transmission provides drivers with full control over the engine’s power, offering a more engaging driving experience than the available automatic option. The inclusion of a start/stop system further improved fuel economy in urban driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D5 with the manual transmission delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for everyday driving, providing effortless acceleration in most situations. While not a sports car, the S60 D5 offers brisk performance, achieving 0-60 mph in around 7 seconds. The six-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with well-defined shift points and a satisfying mechanical feel. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 D2 or D3 variants, the D5 offers a noticeable performance advantage, particularly when overtaking or carrying a full load. However, it doesn’t quite match the outright speed of the higher-output T6 gasoline models. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 D5 typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. Interior appointments included comfortable cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Standard safety equipment was comprehensive, as expected from Volvo, including ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included leather seats, a sunroof, a premium audio system, and parking sensors. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials and technology. The D5 often formed the basis for the ‘SE’ or ‘Lux’ trim levels, offering a balance of comfort and features.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. 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, providing adequate stopping power for most driving conditions. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 2.4 D5 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and strong fuel economy. Compared to its competitors, such as the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series, the S60 D5 offered a compelling combination of value and practicality. The diesel engine provided significantly better fuel economy than the gasoline alternatives, making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances. However, some critics noted that the interior design, while functional, lacked the premium feel of some of its German rivals. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur if the vehicle was primarily used for short trips.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 II 2.4 D5 has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D5 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. Today, the S60 D5 represents a good value proposition for those seeking a comfortable, economical, and well-equipped mid-size sedan. Its blend of practicality, performance, and safety continues to make it a popular choice among used car buyers.
