Volvo’s customers always praised the T5 powertrain, no matter which model these came in. They have been on the market since 1993 and have since then been thoroughly upgraded. Currently, T5 packages are available on a range of Volvo models including the S60 and V90. 

In the past, the T5 powertrains were the top-of-the-line options, but in the current lineup, they are positioned slightly below the T6. This makes them the perfect choice for many buyers, as they provide the perfect balance between power and efficiency but older top-of-the-line T5s also have their charm. Here are the top three reasons why a Volvo T5 model should be in your garage.

Volvo T5 — More Than Plenty of Power 

When the first T5 was introduced, customers were seriously impressed. It came in the form of a 2.4-liter five-cylinder iteration of the B25 engine installed in a Volvo 850. It was available not only with an automatic transmission but also a notchy manual gearbox.

The most powerful variant — Volvo 850 T5R — generated over 222 bhp and 221 lb.-ft of torque. Standard T5 variants were also available and had between 170 and 200 bhp. For comparison, the base 850 at the time was generating around 162 bhp in the 2.4L 20V variant. 

The T5 Volvo was thus able to get to high speeds surprisingly quickly. Not only that, but it was also the ideal engine for towing, as the torque was available from low rpm and fuel efficiency was impressive. Of course, as a proper Volvo, even today, the first T5 engines ran smoothly and almost no uncomfortable noise ever made its way into the cabin. 

The only thing you could hear was a characteristic humming sound of the five-cylinder, which is subtle but pleasant and gives the Volvo T5 even more character.

Almost Thirty Years of Production

The T5 engines have been in production for almost thirty years now, and they are still one of the core offerings at Volvo. The latest T5 engines are turbocharged four-cylinders (the T stands for turbo) that achieve great gas mileage and low emissions despite their power, which is rated at 250 hp and 258 lb.-ft of torque in the current generation of the S60. 

With the latest redesign of Volvo T5s, the engines have become more compact and lightweight thanks to the use of aluminum blocks and heads. Furthermore, the drivetrain is quite modular and allows for use of both all-wheel and front-wheel drive, as well as hybridization. 

Hybrid T5s use regenerative braking, which can recharge the battery, and thus improves the drivetrain efficiency. As standard, T5 drivetrains are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Another interesting feature used by the new T5 engines is the turbo and exhaust manifold design. These components are made of thin sheets of steel, instead of the heavy casting found on older models and many of Volvo’s rivals. With the improved design, the weight of the drivetrain was reduced but even more importantly, less heat is emitted. Because of the thermal characteristics of the new design and its thorough insulation, the engines achieve better performance and efficiency.

Whether we’re talking about old or new T5 engines, they can all be summed up in the following few words — they are smooth, quiet, and increase the cabin comfort to sublime levels. They have a great balance between power and efficiency, which makes them the perfect all-rounder that is capable of even the most demanding tasks. 

Lastly, T5s feature the best technology Volvo has to offer, as the engines receive updates every year for even better characteristics. They are simply perfect and finding a better engine in its class is quite a challenge!

Supreme Reliability and Technology

The T5 drivetrains are durable and efficient. Some of the modern vehicles feature advanced technologies that not only improve the power delivery, but also comfort and emissions. Yet, the Volvo T5 engines are capable of running for hundreds of thousands of miles with close to no issues.

Reliability has always been a priority at Volvo, and so the T5s are almost guaranteed to work for at least 200,000 miles without major issues and some owners report mileages as high as 500,000. In fact, Volvo has previously gifted cars to customers that have surpassed one million miles on their Volvos. “Swedish reliability” is really not just a phrase! 

That said, there are a few issues that can affect the T5’s reliability. These include worn strut mounts, which can result in creaking noises, decreased stability, and uneven tire wear. 

Running these engines low on oil can bring about a plethora of problems that are often quite expensive to fix. Although not exclusive to T5 engines, or Volvos in general, some Volvo drivetrains may suffer from increased oil consumption, so it’s important to stay on top of the oil levels at all times. That said, The T5 is still extremely reliable. If you keep in mind these common issues and take good care of the engine. It will work flawlessly.

Technologically Innovative, yet Reliable

Whether we are talking about old or new T5 drivetrains, they both match technology and reliability perfectly. For example, the new Volvo T5s feature an innovative Regenerative Stability Control system (RSC), which is an enhanced recuperation system that ensures perfect vehicle stability and traction. This system is quite elaborate and is just one of many that can be found on Volvo T5 models.

Rare Cars with an Amazing Community

The first T5 models are now rare and highly sought after by Volvo enthusiasts. Being one of the most powerful Volvo drivetrains, they bring the Volvo luxury experience as far as it is possible. If there is a Volvo to have, it is certainly one with a T5 powertrain.

Perhaps the rarest and most collectible of Volvo T5s is the top-of-the-line Volvo 850 T-5R. This is a performance-focused model with an R badge used for fast Volvos and uses a mighty 2.3L five-cylinder. With it, the T-5R is able to accelerate to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds, using all of its 237 hp and 221 lb.-ft of torque. 

With its conventional styling, it is the perfect sleeper car. From the typical boxy design of Volvos from that period, no one would expect any serious speeds from this family wagon. The only features that suggest that it is not just a regular 850 are large 17-inch alloy wheels and some other slight design changes. 

However, the upgrades are plentiful. It is surprising how well this executive car performs in straights and tight corners alike, given that the regular 850 focuses on comfort above anything else. As this model was produced in only a limited run, it is difficult to find nowadays. During its production between 1995 and 1996, a total of 6,964 units were made and only 876 found their way to the US market.

However, the rarity goes well beyond the 850 T5-R. Almost all T5s are difficult to get, as they are the most popular choices. Because of this, some Volvo T5 models have the potential to hold their value well. The oldest T5s in the Volvo 850s have already started to appreciate significantly in recent years. If you have one in mint condition, cherish it!

Apart from this, the T5s and Volvos in general have a large community around them. If you need help, or just share your Volvo experience, you are sure to find your place in the Volvo community, whether on social media or in real life

Volvo T5 – the Ultimate Daily Hauler

Since their first introduction to the market, the Volvo T5 drivetrains became the preferred choice for a number of models. While not as expensive as some newer T6 models, they have more than enough power, along with the impressive fuel efficiency, and are reliable just like proper Volvos should be. 

Even though the brand has moved from the famous five-cylinders to more conventional inline-4 engines, the modern T5 is still a pinnacle of engineering and a celebration of Volvo’s reliability. If you have ever been considering buying vehicles such as the Volvo 850 T5 or T-5R, get them now, while you still can!