Volvo reaches an important milestone in its powertrain electrification programme with the debut of the new T5 Twin Engine hybrid system in the premium compact XC40 SUV. The introduction makes Volvo the only manufacturer to offer plug-in hybrid versions across its entire product range.
The T5 Twin Engine marries Volvo’s efficient new 1.5-litre three-cylinder 180hp petrol engine with an 82hp electric motor in a hybrid system that delivers 262hp, making it the most powerful powertrain in the XC40 range and the only plug-in hybrid car in the premium compact SUV segment. This power is combined with CO2 emissions from as little as just 38g/km making the car an attractive company car option at just 16% benefit-in-kind tax.
Energy is stored in a 10.7kwh lithium-ion battery pack enabling emissions-free electric-only driving of up to 28 miles. The T5 Twin Engine is not only the first hybrid powertrain in the XC40 range, it is also the first to be engineered for use in Volvo’s CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platform. It is front-wheel drive, in contrast to the established T8 Twin Engine (390hp) powertrain deployed in larger models built on the SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform, which has all-wheel-drive capability.
The powertrain’s efficiency and performance are supported by a new seven-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission, featured for the first time in a new-generation Volvo model.
The cars charging outlet can be found on the nearside front wing where a full charge can be reached in 2.5 hours using the £50 optional typ2 cable or up to 6 hours using the standard the three-pin plug cable.
Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK’s Managing Director commented on the new model:
“The introduction of the T5 Twin Engine brings our electrification programme to the heart of our model line-up, demonstrating our commitment to giving all our customers the best possible choice when it comes to powertrains that are both better for the environment and also practical for their lifestyles and driving requirements. The XC40 T5 Twin Engine is the first plug-in hybrid car in the premium compact SUV segment, and its technology brings real day-to-day cost benefits in terms of tax and fuel consumption.”
The XC40 epitomises the qualities that have made Volvo the UK’s fastest-growing premium car brand. Displaying cool, clean, contemporary lines, it blends Scandinavian style with all the desirability customers seek from a compact SUV. The new powertrain is only available in higher-specification versions of the XC40 starting at £40,905 with UK deliveries starting in February 2020.
Stephen Brown
The Founder of driveEV. A driving and new technology fan enjoying learning all about the future of motoring. I drive a BMW i3.