The Volvo XC60 I 2.4 D DRIVe (175 Hp), produced from 2009 to 2010, represents Volvo’s entry into the burgeoning compact luxury crossover SUV segment. Positioned below the larger XC70 and XC90, the XC60 aimed to attract a younger demographic with its stylish design and focus on safety, hallmarks of the Volvo brand. This particular variant, powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine, was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines held a significant market share due to fuel efficiency and tax incentives. While not officially sold in the United States during its initial production run, the XC60 would later become a significant model for Volvo in North America.
Volvo XC60 I: A Detailed Overview
The XC60 I, the first generation of this popular model, was a crucial vehicle for Volvo. It marked a shift towards a more contemporary and emotionally appealing design language, moving away from the boxier aesthetics of previous generations. The vehicle was built on the Ford EUCD platform, a consequence of Volvo’s ownership by Ford at the time, but it still retained the core Volvo values of safety, durability, and Scandinavian design. The 2.4 D DRIVe trim specifically focused on maximizing fuel economy through optimized engine tuning and aerodynamic enhancements.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the XC60 I 2.4 D DRIVe lies a 2.4-liter inline-five cylinder diesel engine, designated the D5244T5. This engine produces 175 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 420 Nm (309.78 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2750 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in concert to deliver responsive performance and efficient combustion. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.8 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 9.3 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.4 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.3 kg/Nm, contributing to a reasonably spirited driving experience for a diesel-powered crossover.
Design & Features
The Volvo XC60 I features a sleek, crossover SUV body style with five doors and seating for five passengers. Its design was a departure from traditional Volvo styling, incorporating a more sculpted and dynamic appearance. Key design elements included the prominent shoulder line, the distinctive rear C-pillar design, and the integrated roof rails. The interior prioritized comfort and functionality, with a focus on ergonomic design and high-quality materials.
Safety was, as always with Volvo, a paramount concern. The XC60 I was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and a robust chassis designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. While advanced driver-assistance systems were less prevalent in 2009-2010, the XC60 I laid the groundwork for the advanced safety technologies that would become synonymous with the model in later generations. Practicality was also a key consideration, with a minimum trunk (boot) space of 873 liters (30.83 cu. ft.), providing ample room for luggage and cargo.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | XC60 |
| Generation | XC60 I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 D DRIVe (175 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D5244T5 |
| Engine displacement | 2400 cm3 (146.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.65 l (13.37 US qt | 11.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 873 l (30.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4627 mm (182.17 in.) |
| Width | 1888 mm (74.33 in.) |
| Height | 1713 mm (67.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1632 mm (64.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, 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 |
The Volvo XC60 I 2.4 D DRIVe, while a relatively short-lived model, established the XC60 as a key player in the premium crossover segment. Its blend of Scandinavian design, safety features, and efficient diesel power made it a popular choice in Europe, and paved the way for the continued success of the XC60 in global markets.
