The Volvo S80 II (facelift 2013) 1.6 D2 Geartronic represents a fuel-efficient variant of Volvo’s flagship sedan, produced from 2013 to 2016. Positioned as the entry-level engine option in many European markets, this model aimed to broaden the S80’s appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and lower running costs. It falls within the second generation of the S80 (designated as the YS80 platform), benefitting from the 2013 facelift which brought styling updates and revised technology. The “D2” designation signifies Volvo’s low-emission diesel engine family, coupled with the six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 D2 (115 Hp) Geartronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-5.1 l/100 km (49 – 46.1 US mpg, 58.9 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20.8 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8-4.2 l/100 km (61.9 – 56 US mpg, 74.3 – 67.3 UK mpg, 26.3 – 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 – 4.1 l/100 km (52.3 – 57.4 US mpg, 62.8 – 68.9 UK mpg, 22.2 – 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 – 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.2 kg/Hp, 70.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 165.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1700-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1700-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4162T |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1629 kg (3591.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 461 kg (1016.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4854 mm (191.1 in.) |
| Width | 1907 mm (75.08 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 151 mm (5.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 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, 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 D2 is Volvo’s D4162T 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Volvo’s VEA (Volvo Engine Architecture) family, designed for modularity and efficiency. The D4162T utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, achieving 115 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1700 and 2500 rpm. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, a conventional torque-converter automatic known for its smooth shifts. This transmission was designed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 D2 Geartronic prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.2 seconds, and top speed is limited to 185 km/h (115 mph). The Geartronic transmission is programmed for comfort and efficiency, often shifting early to maintain low engine speeds. While adequate for everyday driving, the 115 hp output can feel strained when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to the more powerful D4 or D5 variants, the D2 offers a noticeably less engaging driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacks the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern dual-clutch transmissions. The gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the engine can sometimes feel ‘busy’ under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 D2 Geartronic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features, though specific equipment varied by market. Common features included climate control, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features, a Volvo hallmark, were comprehensive, including ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, navigation, parking sensors, and heated seats. The interior design was typically Scandinavian in style – clean, functional, and focused on comfort. The D2 trim often served as a base for customers who then added optional packages to personalize their vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride quality. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, leaning more towards the former.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S80 1.6 D2 Geartronic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical option. Its low fuel consumption and relatively low CO2 emissions were key selling points, particularly in Europe where diesel engines and fuel efficiency were highly valued. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of performance and the somewhat dated feel of the Geartronic transmission. Compared to the more powerful S80 D4 and D5 models, the D2 offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of driving enjoyment. Against competitors like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the S80 D2 offered a competitive price point and a strong emphasis on safety.
Legacy
The Volvo S80 1.6 D2 Geartronic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the used car market. The D4162T engine, while not known for blistering performance, is generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. The Geartronic transmission, while older technology, is also generally reliable, though regular fluid changes are essential. Common issues reported by owners include diesel particulate filter (DPF) problems, particularly on vehicles primarily used for short journeys. Overall, the S80 D2 represents a sensible and economical choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and safe used sedan.
