Volvo hjas introduced an automatic gearbox option for its larger DrivE models using the 1.6-litre diesel, with the same CO2 emissions as manual versions.

It means company car drivers will be able to choose a range of sub-120g/km Volvo models with the company's Powershift double-clutch transmission.

"For the first time ever, we have managed to bring the fuel consumption in variants with an automatic gearbox down to the same level as in the manual versions. An impressive achievement by our powertrain experts," sais Peter Mertens, senior vice president research and development at the Volvo Car Corporation.

Fuel consumption (combined cycle) and CO2 figures are as follows:
S60 DrivE automatic - 65.7mpg; 114g/km
V60 DrivE automatic - 62.8mpg; 119g/km
V70 DrivE automatic - 62.8mpg; 119g/km
S80 DrivE automatic - 62.8mpg; 119g/km

Customers will be able to order a DrivE Powershift in early 2012 with production starting mid-February. On the road prices start at £25,230 for the S60 DrivE, £26,405 for the V60 DrivE, £27,730 for the V70 DrivE and £26,980 for the S80 DrivE.

The low consumption and emission levels are the result of a number of technological improvements:
• Friction between gearbox components has been reduced.
• The engine and gearbox software have been modified.
• The start/stop system cuts off the diesel engine when the car is still rolling (below 3mph).
• All electrical systems have been optimised to create lower energy consumption.

The S60, V60, V70 and S80 Drive is fitted with the latest version of the PSA-Ford-sourced 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine, producing 115bhp and 119lb-ft of torque.

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