The Volvo S80 II (facelift, 2011) 2.4 D5, producing 215 horsepower and equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD), represented a sophisticated offering in Volvo’s flagship sedan lineup. Introduced in 2011 as part of a mid-cycle refresh for the second-generation S80 (platform designation P24), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with strong performance, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and capable luxury vehicle. Production continued through 2013, positioning it as a key model during a period of significant change for Volvo, prior to its acquisition by Geely. This particular configuration occupied a mid-to-upper position within the S80 range, offering a step up in performance and features compared to the lower-powered diesel options, while remaining more accessible than the range-topping petrol engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S80 |
| Generation | S80 II (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D5 (215 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 245.3 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 | 1712 kg (3774.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2270 kg (5004.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 558 kg (1230.18 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S80 II 2.4 D5 AWD is Volvo’s D5244T11 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine is a descendant of Volvo’s long-running D5 series, known for its robustness and efficiency. The D5244T11 utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler further enhances performance by increasing air intake and reducing intake temperatures. The engine produces 215 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3250 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of the D5 engine, providing strong pulling power across a wide range of engine speeds. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a six-speed automatic gearbox, specifically the Aisin Warner TF-80SC, known for its smooth shifting and reliability. This transmission was widely used by Volvo and other manufacturers during this period.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 D5 AWD offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The abundance of torque makes for effortless acceleration, particularly in everyday driving situations. While not a sports sedan, the 7.8-second 0-60 mph acceleration time is respectable for a vehicle of this size and weight. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth and timely gear changes. Compared to the lower-powered diesel variants, the D5 offers a noticeable performance improvement, making overtaking and highway cruising more relaxed. Compared to the petrol versions, the D5 provides superior fuel economy and a more usable powerband. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. The steering is light and precise, although it lacks the ultimate feel of some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S80 II 2.4 D5 AWD typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a luxury sedan. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and a host of safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as a navigation system, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior trim options varied, with choices in wood or aluminum accents. The dashboard layout is typically Scandinavian in its design – clean, functional, and focused on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The S80 II utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The AWD system is a viscous coupling system, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed to maintain optimal traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volvo S80 II 2.4 D5 AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong diesel engine. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with the D5 offering significantly better mileage than the petrol alternatives. Some critics noted that the S80 lacked the dynamic flair of some of its German rivals, but its overall refinement and practicality were highly regarded. Compared to other trims in the S80 lineup, the D5 offered a compelling balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers who prioritized both. The 1.6D Drive models were more affordable but lacked the power and refinement of the D5. The higher-powered petrol engines (T6) offered more outright performance but at the expense of fuel economy.
Legacy
The D5244T11 engine, and the S80 II 2.4 D5 AWD as a whole, have proven to be relatively reliable vehicles. The D5 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can accumulate high mileage. Common issues include wear and tear on the turbocharger and potential problems with the fuel injectors. The Aisin Warner transmission is also generally reliable, but regular fluid changes are essential. In the used car market, the S80 II 2.4 D5 AWD represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and well-equipped luxury sedan at a reasonable price. Its reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency continues to make it a popular choice among discerning buyers.
