The Volvo D 4204 T20 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2019. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16 valves, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) paired with high-pressure common rail direct fuel injection. In standard form, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, with the VGT enabling strong low-rpm pulling power for effortless overtaking.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation XC90 (T6 Inscription, T6 R-Design) and S90/V90 models, the D 4204 T20 was engineered for refined, quiet operation and strong mid-range torque, ideal for luxury touring. Emissions compliance for European markets was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, meeting stringent Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is the potential for AdBlue system crystallisation or injector clogging, highlighted in Volvo's Technical Service Bulletin TJB‑15234. This issue is often linked to infrequent driving or short trips that prevent the system from reaching optimal operating temperature for proper regeneration.
Production years 2015–2019 meet Euro 6 standards for all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D4).
The Volvo D 4204 T20 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for luxury SUVs and sedans (2015-2019). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, abundant torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances premium performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The VGT provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires the use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to protect the high-pressure Bosch CP4 fuel pump. Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) oil is mandatory to ensure optimal performance of the variable valve timing system and turbocharger longevity. The AdBlue system demands regular use; vehicles driven infrequently or on very short trips are at higher risk of system faults and crystallisation per Volvo TSB TJB‑15234. DPF regeneration cycles are automatic but benefit from occasional longer drives at higher speeds.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) specification (Volvo Owner's Manual MY2016). ACEA C5 compliant.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015-2019 D 4204 T20 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D4).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (Volvo TIS Doc. VTI-4512).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTI-4512, VTI-4891
Volvo Service Information Bulletins: TJB‑15234
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D4)
The Volvo D 4204 T20 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated engine mounts for the XC90 and specific exhaust routing for the S90-with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code on a metal plaque riveted to the timing cover on the front of the engine (Volvo TIS VTI-4501). The 8th digit of the VIN is '6' for T6 models, which includes the D 4204 T20 diesel variant. Visually, it can be identified by its transverse mounting in SPA platform vehicles and the presence of an AdBlue tank filler cap (usually in the fuel filler flap or under the bonnet). Critical differentiation from the B4204 petrol engine: The diesel has a visible exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler and a larger, more complex exhaust system with SCR components.
The D 4204 T20's primary reliability risk is AdBlue system faults, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent or short-trip driving. Volvo TSB TJB‑15234 documents this as a known service issue, while owner reports frequently cite related warning lights. Ensuring the vehicle is driven sufficiently to allow system regeneration is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2019) and aggregated owner-reported data (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T20.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLVO Official Site
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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
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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