The Volvo S60 III 2.0 T4 Automatic, produced from November 2018 to March 2020, represents a key iteration within the third generation of Volvo’s popular executive sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the S60 III lineup, this variant balanced performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience without the higher price tag of the more powerful trims. It was built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, shared with other Volvo models like the XC60 and XC90, emphasizing modularity and advanced technology integration. This model was primarily aimed at the European and North American markets, offering a compelling alternative to German rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 T4 (190 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2018 |
| End of production | March, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 10.9-11.6 l/100 km (21.6 – 20.3 US mpg, 25.9 – 24.4 UK mpg, 9.2 – 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 7.4-8.1 l/100 km (31.8 – 29 US mpg, 38.2 – 34.9 UK mpg, 13.5 – 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.9-6.7 l/100 km (39.9 – 35.1 US mpg, 47.9 – 42.2 UK mpg, 16.9 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.5-7.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 30.9 US mpg, 43.5 – 37.2 UK mpg, 15.4 – 13.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.1-8.0 l/100 km (33.1 – 29.4 US mpg, 39.8 – 35.3 UK mpg, 14.1 – 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 161-181 g/km |
| CO2 emissions | 149-155 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1680-4000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1680-4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4204T31 |
| 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 | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4761 mm (187.44 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1916 mm (75.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2040 mm (80.31 in.) |
| Height | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2872 mm (113.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1593-1603 mm (62.72 – 63.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1593-1603 mm (62.72 – 63.11 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm (5.59 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 III 2.0 T4 Automatic is Volvo’s B4204T31, a 1.969-liter (120.16 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 190 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1680 and 4000 rpm. The engine features a compression ratio of 10.8:1 and employs a timing chain for durability. The engine’s transverse mounting optimizes space utilization within the engine bay. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, is a crucial component of this powertrain. It’s known for its smooth shifts and contributes to both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration. This transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 T4 Automatic delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output T5 or Polestar Engineered variants, it provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.7 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine within its optimal power band, providing smooth and predictable acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, but also allow for quick downshifts when needed. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic prioritizes convenience and ease of use, making it ideal for urban commutes and long-distance journeys. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, although it may lack the all-weather capability of Volvo’s all-wheel-drive systems.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 III 2.0 T4 Automatic typically came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting Volvo’s commitment to safety and comfort. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, a 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced safety features such as City Safety with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a head-up display. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally offered packages that added convenience and luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 III utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and control, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road while maintaining stability during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 III 2.0 T4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and advanced safety features. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its rivals. Fuel economy was considered competitive, with combined fuel consumption ranging from 7.1 to 8.0 liters per 100 kilometers (33.1 to 29.4 US mpg). Compared to the more powerful T5 variant, the T4 offered a more affordable entry point into the S60 III range, appealing to buyers who prioritized efficiency and comfort over outright performance. The T4 also proved more reliable than some of the more complex higher-output engines, reducing potential maintenance costs.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 III 2.0 T4 Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The B4204T31 engine is generally considered robust, and the Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission is known for its longevity. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. As of today, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, safe, and well-equipped executive sedan at a reasonable price point. The combination of Volvo’s renowned safety features, a comfortable interior, and a relatively efficient powertrain continues to make the S60 III 2.0 T4 Automatic a popular choice among used car buyers.
