The upcoming Volvo XC90 isn’t even here yet, but it’s causing quite a stir among the faithful. Whether that’s because of its exciting new Drive-E engines, Apple CarPlay-ready interior, or “Made in China” construction site, though, is up for debate. There’s one thing Volvo claims won’t be up for debate, however: the 2015 Volvo XC90 T8 will offer the best performance and fuel economy in its class.
The T8 designation on the new Volvos is key, as it represents the top trim level of the “big” Volvos. At the front of the car, a gas-powered Drive-E turbo-AND-supercharged 4 cylinder powers the front wheels. Out back, however, is where things get interesting – because that’s where the second drivetrain lives.
Like the matte-white Volvo XC60 hybrid concept I got to play with last year, the rear wheels are driven by a high-torque, 80 HP electric motor that will allow the 2015 Volvo XC90 to operate effectively as an EV around town, a FWD 4 cyl. on the highway, and an AWD hybrid speed machine when you mash your foot to the Volvo’s luxuriously carpeted floor.
Volvo claims that the new T8 “Twin Engine” setup is good for 25 miles of pure electric driving, and delivers a total output of 400 HP with more than 470 lb-ft of torque while producing just 60 g/km of C02. That works out to more than 90 MPG in the European city cycle, or something like (a still-astonishing) 75 MPG in the US.
Source | Images: Volvo, via Green Car Reports.
