The Volvo D 5244 T20 is a 2,400 cc, inline‑five turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2014 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivered 162 kW (220 PS), with torque peaking at 470 Nm, providing strong low‑rpm pulling power for effortless overtaking.
Fitted primarily to the second‑generation XC90 (T8 Twin Engine variants) and S90/V90 models, the D 5244 T20 was engineered for refined, long‑distance cruising with an emphasis on smoothness and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 6 standards across all production years.
One documented engineering update addressed potential EGR cooler condensation issues in very cold climates, outlined in Volvo Service Bulletin RTJ‑35123. This involved a software update to modify the EGR valve duty cycle during warm‑up. No major mechanical redesigns occurred during its production run before being phased out for newer four‑cylinder units.

All production years (2014–2018) meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volvo D 5244 T20 is a 2,400 cc inline‑five turbo‑diesel engineered for premium SUVs and sedans (2014-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, high‑torque performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it prioritizes refinement and long‑distance efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,400 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 162 kW (220 PS) | |
| Torque | 470 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso HP4 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 0W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The inline-five configuration provides inherent smoothness and ample low-end torque, ideal for towing and highway cruising. Strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-30) is critical to protect the high-pressure fuel system and turbocharger. The Denso HP4 pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards. EGR and DPF systems are robust but benefit from regular highway driving to ensure complete regenerations. No widespread timing chain issues are documented for this specific variant.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-30) specification (Volvo Owner's Manual MY2015).
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all model years (2014-2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across specified fuel quality (Volvo TIS Doc. V-46001).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V-44512, V-44515, V-46001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volvo D 5244 T20 was used exclusively in Volvo's SPA platform vehicles with longitudinal mounting. This engine was paired specifically with the T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid system in the XC90, and later in the S90 and V90 for certain markets, creating a unique compatibility profile. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code on a metal plaque riveted to the timing cover or near the turbocharger (Volvo TIS V-44800). The 8th VIN digit for SPA-platform T8 models is typically 'D'. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its inline-five cylinder layout and integration with the electric motor/generator on the transmission. Critical differentiation from earlier D5 engines: D 5244 T20 has specific engine mounts and wiring harnesses for the T8 hybrid system. Parts are not interchangeable with non-hybrid D5 variants.
The D 5244 T20's primary documented concern is EGR system complexity within the T8 hybrid setup, with potential for software-related cold-start management issues. Volvo internal data indicates a low incidence of mechanical failures, while emissions system diagnostics are the most common service item. Adherence to prescribed maintenance schedules is paramount for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2014-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-5244-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
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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