Volvo has just introduced a range of highly efficient and economical engines that will make V8 variants seem like dinosaurs.
The existing line-up of eight engines has been simplified with just one petrol and one diesel engine. The diesel engine will have power outputs ranging from 120bhp to 230bhp and the petrol variant will range from 140bhp to 306bhp.
They are small, lighter, offer improved fuel efficiency and a reduction in carbon emissions too.
At present the technology is only available on vehicles with 2.0-litre engines and on 2WD models, but over the next two years Volvo intends to roll the Drive-E technology out across its entire range.
And that’s excellent news for buyers, according to Derek Crabb, vice president for powertrain engineering at Volvo, who said: “Drive-E engines offer a massive reduction in weight and size, which for the customer equates to improved fuel economy and a reduction in emissions”.
In addition, there is a new highly-efficient eight-speed automatic gearbox too which works in tandem with the eco-engine to help keep costs to a minimum.
I tested out a number of models with the new Drive-E engines across the range and one thing was very apparent. The engines may have been simplified and offer numerous savings but there has been no compromise on performance or driving dynamics along the way.
From the 99g/km V60 and S60 models with their acclaimed average 74.3mpg to the equally impressive V70 and larger XC70 the handling was sharp with plenty of power on tap and all the acceleration you could wish for.
Volvo has also revealed that the Drive-E engines will be ready for electrification a little further down the line.