The Volvo S80 II (facelift, 2011) 2.4 D5, producing 215 horsepower, represented a significant offering in Volvo’s flagship sedan lineup. Introduced as part of the second-generation S80’s mid-cycle refresh, this variant was produced from 2011 to 2013. It aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and refined executive car. The S80 II, built on Volvo’s P2 platform, was positioned as a competitor to established German luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though Volvo emphasized safety and Scandinavian design as key differentiators.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (215 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 255.9 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 |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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 | 1641 kg (3617.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 549 kg (1210.34 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 | 4851 mm (190.98 in.) |
| Width | 1861 mm (73.27 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 II 2.4 D5 was the Volvo D5244T11 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine was a mainstay of Volvo’s diesel offerings for many years, known for its robustness and relatively smooth operation for a five-cylinder configuration. The D5244T11 utilized a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler was employed to boost power and torque across a broad rev range. The engine produced 215 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3250 rpm. This torque output was a key characteristic, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise shifts and contributing to the car’s overall driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D5 with the 6-speed manual transmission offered a compelling blend of performance and efficiency. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 7.2 seconds, making it reasonably quick for a large executive sedan. The abundant low-end torque meant that overtaking maneuvers were executed with ease, and the engine felt responsive even at lower speeds. Compared to the gasoline-powered S80 variants, the D5 offered significantly better fuel economy. While not as sporty as some of its German rivals, the S80 D5 prioritized comfort and refinement. The suspension was tuned to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride, making it an excellent long-distance cruiser. The manual gearbox, while engaging, required a bit more driver involvement than the automatic options available on other S80 trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 D5 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a suite of safety features, including Volvo’s City Safety system (automatic braking at low speeds). Optional extras included navigation, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The D5 trim often served as a base for adding these options, allowing buyers to customize their S80 to their preferences. The interior design was typically Scandinavian – clean, functional, and focused on passenger comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for comfort, but also provided decent handling characteristics. The 2.4 D5 models typically came with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, along with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive control. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S80 II 2.4 D5 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong fuel economy. The diesel engine was noted for its refinement and ample torque. However, some critics found the styling to be somewhat conservative compared to its German competitors. Compared to the gasoline-powered S80 T6 (with its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine), the D5 offered significantly better fuel economy but less outright performance. The D5 was also a more practical choice for drivers who frequently covered long distances. Against other diesel-powered executive sedans, the S80 D5 offered a compelling value proposition, combining Scandinavian luxury with proven reliability.
Legacy
The D5244T11 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a remarkably durable and reliable powerplant. S80 II 2.4 D5 models, when properly maintained, have demonstrated good long-term reliability. On the used car market, these models represent a good value for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped executive sedan. While not as sought-after as some of its German rivals, the S80 D5 offers a unique blend of Scandinavian design, safety, and practicality. Parts availability remains good, and the relatively simple mechanical design makes it a relatively straightforward vehicle to maintain. The D5 engine’s reputation for longevity continues to make these S80s a viable option for budget-conscious buyers.
