Volvo drops diesel on XC40 and introduces new plug-in hybrids

Volvo has stopped taking orders for diesel-powered XC40 models to coincide with the introduction of new plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions.

It is now available in B4 and B5 mild-hybrid petrol, T4 and T5 plug-in Hybrid, and P8 fully-electric. The T2 and T3 petrol units also remain available.

The new B4 produces 197PS and is available with front- or all-wheel drive, while the 250PS B5 comes exclusively with all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on both.

T4 plug-in hybrid models develop a combined 211PS, while the T5 has 262PS. Both use 10.6kWh battery for a range of 27 miles and CO2 emissions from 47g/km.

The brand has also re-aligned its powertrain line-up on other models, introducing a new T6 plug-in hybrid variant.

Facelifted versions of the S90 are now only offered in T8 plug-in hybrid guise, while the V90 has been given the new T6 plug-in hybrid engine.

The T6 uses the same 2.0-litre petrol engine, electric motor and 11.6kWh battery, but has a lower power output of 340PS when compared to the T8’s 390PS. Prices for the S90 T8 and V90 T6 are the same, starting from £55,250.

The XC60 has gained the same T6 version.

S60 models continue to be offered with the T8 powertrain, but the V60 is now offered with the T6 instead. As with the S90 and V90, prices are aligned and start at £45,175.

Currently, the brand’s new mild-hybrid diesel engines are offered on the V60, V90, XC60 and XC90. These replace the old units and are badged B4 and B5.

In the coming years Volvo Cars aims to establish itself as a leader in electrification and by 2025, it wants half of its global sales volume to consist of fully electric cars, with the rest hybrids.