The Volvo S80 II 2.4 D, produced between 2006 and 2009, represented a significant offering in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. This variant, powered by a 2.4-liter five-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 163 horsepower, occupied a key position in the S80 lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency, comfortable ride quality, and Volvo’s renowned safety features. It was positioned as a more economical alternative to the higher-powered gasoline variants, and a more refined option than some of its competitors in the diesel market. The S80 II, built on Volvo’s P2 platform, aimed to elevate the brand’s image with a more sophisticated design and improved interior appointments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 105.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T5 |
| Engine displacement | 2400 cm3 (146.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.1 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4851 mm (190.98 in.) |
| Width | 1861 mm (73.27 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2106 mm (82.91 in.) |
| Height | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2835 mm (111.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Front overhang | 978 mm (38.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1038 mm (40.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| 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 | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 II 2.4 D is Volvo’s D5244T5 engine, a 2.4-liter inline five-cylinder diesel. This engine, a mainstay of Volvo’s diesel offerings for many years, is characterized by its robust construction and relatively simple design. The D5244T5 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, providing a broad and usable powerband. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The engine’s 17:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise shifts and contributing to the car’s overall fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D variant of the S80 II delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness and fuel efficiency over outright performance. With 163 horsepower and 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 9.5 seconds. While not particularly quick, the engine provides ample torque for everyday driving situations, including highway overtaking. The manual transmission’s gear ratios are well-chosen to keep the engine within its optimal powerband. Compared to the more powerful gasoline versions, the 2.4 D feels less responsive, but offers significantly better fuel economy. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 II 2.4 D typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a CD stereo system, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a Volvo hallmark, were comprehensive, including ABS brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, premium audio systems, and navigation. The interior design was characterized by a clean and Scandinavian aesthetic, with a focus on functionality and comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employs MacPherson struts, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The ABS anti-lock braking system enhances safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering is rack-and-pinion with power assistance, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S80 II 2.4 D was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and strong fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its gasoline counterparts. Compared to other diesel-powered sedans in its class, such as the Audi A6 TDI and BMW 520d, the S80 2.4 D offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of value for money. Its fuel economy figures were comparable to those of its rivals, and its reliability record was generally good.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 II 2.4 D has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D5244T5 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can cover high mileages. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system. However, these are generally manageable with regular servicing. Today, the S80 II 2.4 D represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient luxury sedan. Its blend of Scandinavian design, safety features, and robust engineering continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
