The Volvo B 4204 T26 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2019. It features an aluminium block and head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 235 kW (320 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, providing high performance through advanced turbocharging and engine management.
Fitted exclusively to the S60 Polestar and V60 Polestar during this period, the B 4204 T26 was engineered for track —…
Production years 2016–2019 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B4204T26).
The Volvo B 4204 T26 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and wagons (2016-2019). It combines an aluminium block with DOHC and direct injection to deliver track-focused, responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances extreme specific output with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 81.0 mm | |
Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
Torque | 400 Nm @ 2,200–5,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (Volvo VEP system) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbocharger (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
Oil type | SAE 0W-20 (Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02) | |
Dry weight | 135 kg |
The Volvo B 4204 T26 was used exclusively across Volvo's Polestar performance variants with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and upgraded cooling systems in both sedan and wagon body styles. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The B 4204 T26's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Volvo internal service data from 2017 indicated frequent need for pump replacement, while owner surveys highlight turbocharger heat management as a common cause of drivability complaints. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect fuel make fuel and turbo system issues critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2016-2019) and Volvo Polestar Owners Club failure surveys (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The B 4204 T26 offers exceptional performance but requires meticulous maintenance. The primary concern is the high-pressure fuel pump, addressed in SB-17-089. With timely pump replacement, correct 0W-20 oil changes every 10,000 km, and proper turbo cool-down procedures, the engine can be reliable long-term.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure (SB-17-089), turbocharger oil coking from heat soak, and direct injection carbon buildup. Oil leaks from the valve cover and turbo connections are also common under high-stress conditions.
The B 4204 T26 was used exclusively in the Volvo S60 Polestar (2016-2019) and V60 Polestar (2016-2019) models. It was the high-performance engine developed by Polestar, producing 320 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
Yes, but with caution. The B 4204 T26 is already highly tuned from the factory. Further ECU remapping can yield gains of 20-30 kW, but requires supporting modifications like upgraded intercooler and downpipe. Always ensure the fuel pump and turbo are in excellent condition before tuning.
Fuel economy is modest given its performance. Expect around 11.0-13.0 L/100km (22-26 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a well-maintained S60 Polestar. Highway cruising can yield closer to 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). Economy is heavily dependent on driving style.
Yes. The Volvo B 4204 T26 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons will contact the valves, causing severe internal engine damage. This makes adherence to timing chain inspection critical.
Volvo specifies SAE 0W-20 oil meeting Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02 specification. This low-viscosity oil is crucial for protecting the turbocharger bearings and high-pressure fuel pump. Using the correct oil is non-negotiable for engine longevity, especially under high-performance conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLVO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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