The Volvo D 5244 T16 is a 2,400 cc, inline‑five twin‑turbo diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2014. It features an aluminum block and head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a sequential twin‑turbocharger system. Output is rated at 184 kW (250 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, with the smaller high‑pressure turbo providing immediate response and the larger low‑pressure unit ensuring strong top‑end power.
Fitted exclusively to the S60, V60, and XC60 R‑Design models, the…

All production years (2011–2014) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9877).
The Volvo D 5244 T16 is a 2,400 cc inline‑five twin‑turbo diesel engineered for premium performance variants (2011-2014). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a sequential twin‑turbo system to deliver exceptional throttle response and sustained high‑rpm power. Designed to meet stringent Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances high performance with advanced emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,400 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential) | |
Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) | |
Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Sequential twin-turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
Oil type | Volvo VDS‑4 (SAE 0W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 195 kg |
The Volvo D 5244 T16 was used across Volvo's P3 platform with transverse mounting. This engine was reserved for R-Design trims, receiving specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the XC60 R-Design and revised ECU mapping in the S60 R-Design-and from 2012 minor ECU updates were implemented for emissions refinement, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The D 5244 T16's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Volvo internal data indicated a significant failure rate before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records note AdBlue system faults as a frequent MOT advisory item. Extended low-speed driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate pump and emissions system degradation, making proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2011-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). 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 D 5244 T16 offers exceptional performance but shares the known weakness of its high-pressure fuel pump with the T6 variant. With strict adherence to oil change intervals using VDS-4 0W-30 oil and only using high-quality fuel, reliability can be good. Proactive replacement of the fuel pump per TSB 11-03-12 is recommended for high-mileage vehicles.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure (causing no-start or power loss), AdBlue/SCR system faults (leading to limp mode), turbo actuator failure (causing boost issues), and turbo oil seal leaks (causing blue smoke). These are well-documented in Volvo service bulletins, particularly TSB 11-03-12.
This high-performance 2.4L diesel was used exclusively in R-Design variants of the second-generation S60 (2011-2014), V60 (2011-2014), and XC60 (2011-2014). It was typically badged as the 'D5 R-Design'. It was not used in any non-R-Design models or vehicles outside the Volvo brand.
Yes, significant power gains are possible. The robust twin-turbo setup and CP4.2 pump can support stage 1 remaps yielding +30-50 kW. Stage 2 with upgraded intercooler and downpipe can push further. However, tuning increases stress on the known weak points (fuel pump, turbos), so addressing reliability first is strongly advised.
Fuel economy is respectable for its performance. Expect approximately 9.0 L/100km (city) and 6.5 L/100km (highway), translating to roughly 31-36 mpg UK combined in an S60 or V60 R-Design. Economy is highly dependent on driving style; aggressive driving will significantly reduce these figures.
Yes. The D 5244 T16 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. While the chain is generally robust, any unusual noises from the front of the engine should be investigated immediately.
Volvo mandates a 0W-30 synthetic oil meeting the Volvo VDS-4 specification. This low-viscosity oil is critical for lubricating the high-pressure fuel pump and turbochargers under all operating conditions. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLVO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.