The Volvo S60 III 2.0 T5 AWD Automatic, produced from November 2018 to March 2020, represents a significant iteration in Volvo’s mid-size sedan lineup. Positioned as a performance-oriented trim within the third generation S60 (internally designated as the SPA platform), this variant combined a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to deliver a blend of Scandinavian luxury, engaging driving dynamics, and modern safety technology, appealing to buyers seeking a premium sedan with all-weather capability. This model year marked a transition for the S60, moving away from previous generations and embracing a more contemporary design language and powertrain strategy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 T5 (250 Hp) AWD 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) | 12.0-12.3 l/100 km (19.6 – 19.1 US mpg, 23.5 – 23 UK mpg, 8.3 – 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 8.1-9.0 l/100 km (29 – 26.1 US mpg, 34.9 – 31.4 UK mpg, 12.3 – 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 6.3-7.4 l/100 km (37.3 – 31.8 US mpg, 44.8 – 38.2 UK mpg, 15.9 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.6-8.2 l/100 km (35.6 – 28.7 US mpg, 42.8 – 34.4 UK mpg, 15.2 – 12.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.5-8.7 l/100 km (31.4 – 27 US mpg, 37.7 – 32.5 UK mpg, 13.3 – 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 171-197 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.0-7.3 l/100 km (33.6 – 32.2 US mpg, 40.4 – 38.7 UK mpg, 14.3 – 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 160-167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 250 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1800-4800 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4204T26 |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1747 kg (3851.48 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Front overhang | 848 mm (33.39 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1041 mm (40.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm (5.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4-12.1 m (37.4 – 39.7 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf 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 T5 AWD is Volvo’s B4204T26, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is part of Volvo’s Drive-E family, characterized by its modular design and focus on efficiency. The B4204T26 utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 250 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 4800 rpm. The engine features a 10.8:1 compression ratio and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, is a key component of the powertrain. It’s designed for smooth and responsive shifting, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system is a sophisticated on-demand system, primarily driving the front wheels but seamlessly engaging the rear axle when traction is needed.
Driving Characteristics
The S60 T5 AWD Automatic delivers a balanced driving experience. The 250 hp engine provides brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering quick and smooth gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the S60 T5 provides ample power for everyday driving and confident passing maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and grip, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the base T4 model, the T5 offers a noticeable performance upgrade. Compared to potential future Polestar-engineered versions or even the later T6 supercharged and turbocharged variants, the T5 represents a middle ground, prioritizing a balance of performance and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 T5 AWD Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting Volvo’s emphasis on luxury and safety. Standard features included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included premium audio systems (Harman Kardon), heated and ventilated front seats, and a head-up display. Trim levels varied slightly by market, but generally offered packages that added features like navigation, parking assist, and upgraded interior finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 III utilizes a front double wishbone and rear integral leaf spring suspension setup. This configuration aims to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The T5 AWD model benefits from a slightly stiffer suspension tuning compared to lower-trim levels to better manage the increased power and weight. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S60 III 2.0 T5 AWD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and refined driving experience. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, with combined figures ranging from 27 to 31 mpg. Compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the S60 T5 offered a unique Scandinavian aesthetic and a strong emphasis on safety. Some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be complex to navigate, and the rear seat space was slightly less generous than some competitors.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 III 2.0 T5 AWD Automatic represents a pivotal moment in Volvo’s transition towards a more modern and technologically advanced lineup. The B4204T26 engine, while later superseded by more powerful and efficient variants, proved to be a reliable and capable powerplant. In the used car market, these models are generally considered a good value, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and safety at a reasonable price point. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and adherence to Volvo’s recommended service intervals, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of the powertrain and other components. The S60 T5 AWD Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a sophisticated and capable mid-size sedan.
