Volvo Drive-E engines launched

Volvo has launched a range of extremely economical Drive-E engines, which will give Volvo models class-leading economy. The new engines use a high-tech construction and sophisticated fuel system to micromanage fuel going into the engine, with impressive results.

The new technology means that a manual Volvo V40 D4 diesel qualifies for free road tax, while returning economy of up to 74.3mpg. What sets it apart from frugal rivals, such as the Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion, is a generous power rating of 187bhp (compared to the Golf’s 109bhp). The new D4 can now be paired with Volvo’s eight-speed automatic gearbox, which allows it to return emissions of 109g/km and economy of 65.7mpg.

The D4 engine is available in the grippy four-wheel drive Volvo V40 Cross Country, where it returns emissions of 104g/km and economy of 70.6mpg, while the high-performance petrol two-wheel drive Volvo V40 T5 also gets the Drive-E treatment. That car now comes fitted as standard with the eight-speed gearbox, and returns 47.9mpg as well as emissions of 137g/km, which represent a £350 annual road tax saving over the old car.

Michael Fleiss, a VP at the Volvo Car Group, said: “The outstanding take-off and responsiveness of the Drive-E engines, combined with a smooth engine sound, will make the cars even more fun to drive, without compromising on modern customers’ demand for superb fuel economy and minimised CO2-emissions.”

Volvo has also taken the opportunity to announce its new Sensus Connect infotainment and sat-nav system, which will be fitted as standard to the Volvo V70, Volvo XC70, and Volvo S80 ranges. The cloud-based system offers 3D navigation, access to more than 100,000 radio stations, and a Bluetooth phone connection. When combined with Volvo On Call, it can also host an in-car WiFi hot spot.

A number of cosmetic changes will be made across the line up, too, starting with the V40 that’s now available with two new colours – Osmium Grey and Power Blue - as well as 17-inch Spider and 18-inch Tamesis alloy wheels. The V40 Cross Country, meanwhile, gets the same new colours and optional 19-inch alloys, while the Volvo S60, Volvo V60 and Volvo XC60 can now be specced with piano black wood trim, plus a Power Blue paint finish.

Finally, Volvo’s new Inscription trim option offers luxury fittings such as Soft Leather upholstery, a leather-covered instrument panel, deco inlays, and embroidered Inscription logos on the inside, while outside, there are three colour alternatives – Crystal White Pearl, Electric Silver and Ember Black, as well as 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels.

For all the latest reviews from across the Volvo range, visit the Carbuyer Volvo reviews page.