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-capable performance with daily drivability. Emissions compliance was met through direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, and catalytic aftertreatment, allowing compliance with Euro 6 standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to fuel starvation and engine shutdown. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin SB‑17‑089, is often linked to fuel contamination or extended service intervals. In 2018, Volvo introduced a revised pump design with improved filtration and durability.
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 twin-scroll turbocharged design provides explosive mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and fuel pump degradation. Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation protecting the turbo bearings and high-pressure fuel pump. Extended high-RPM operation should be followed by a cool-down period. The timing chain must be inspected per Volvo’s condition-based service schedule. Ignoring SB-17-089 for fuel pump replacement can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02 (0W-20) specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 2018). Supersedes ACEA C5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2019 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B4204T26).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Figures represent engine output as installed in vehicle (Volvo Factory Brochure 2017).
Volvo Workshop Manual (2018 Edition)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B4204
Volvo Service Bulletin SB-17-089
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/B4204T26)
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 2018). The code will read "B4204T26". Visual identification: Aluminium block, direct injection fuel rail on the intake manifold, twin-scroll turbocharger mounted at the front of the engine with prominent intercooler piping. Critical differentiation from the B4204T5: The T26 has unique Polestar-specific engine cover, larger intercooler, and higher-output turbocharger. The "T26" suffix denotes the Polestar performance variant.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4204-T26.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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