We are the first to confirm that Volvo Auto India will be bringing the MY2015 models of the S60, S80 and XC60 in with an all-new driveline.
Volvo had earlier unveiled their new Driv-E line of engines which would also be paired a new 8-speed transmission. With the next model year beginning in May 2014, the 2015 models will begin to arrive in a couple of months time, depending on how many orders are received and catered to in the coming months.
The engine powering the D4 variants of these cars is the new 2.0-litre four-cylinder Driv-E turbo-diesel. Displacing 1,969cc, this engine features the company’s new i-ART injection technology and thus optimises diesel injection while improving engine response and efficiency. Peak power is now 181 PS, up from 163 PS, but it comes in at a slightly higher 4,250 RPM. This may seem higher than the previous D4’s peak power RPM of 3,500, but it will also lend the engine better driveability and lose the lazy feel which accompanied older five-cylinder Volvo cars. Peak torque is still 400 Nm, but it comes stays flat for a lower band: from 1,750-2,500 RPM.
Sending the power to the front wheels is the new 8-speed transmission which better harnesses the power and can smartly adapt to driving style depending on input. The ratios are closer with a tall first and the top two gears running overdrive ratios.
As far as pricing goes, all the MY2015 D4 models will have marginally revised pricing and deliveries of the new D4-engined models will commence later this year.
Volvo also unveiled a new S60 L PPHEV (Petrol Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) at the Beijing Auto Show. The new car makes use of the new Driv-E 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol making 238 PS and 350 Nm of torque. That’s not all, the electric driveline is from the hot-selling V60, so the 70-PS/200 Nm equivalent electric motor takes the total output to 308 PS and 550 Nm – that’s twin-turbo V6 territory! Not too bad at all. We doubt the long-wheelbase S60 PPHEV will arrive in India, but it shows the pace at which the company is pushing forward with cleaner, greener and, it goes without saying of course, safer technology.
Story: Jim Gorde
Images: Volvo Cars
