Volvo Adds the T-5 with a New Powertrain to the 60 Series | Volvo
Volvo S60 / V60 / XC60
New Generation Powertrain "Drive-E" Adopted for 60 Series
Volvo has adopted the new generation 2-liter inline four-cylinder direct-injection turbo unit "Drive-E," which balances powerful performance with environmental friendliness, for all 60 series models, launching on February 20th. This engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, boasts a 23 percent improvement in fuel efficiency while also achieving increased power through enhancements to its management system and key components.
Text by SAKURAI Kenichi
Eco-Car Tax Reduction Program Expanded; XC60 Now 100% Tax Exempt
The newly developed 2.0-liter four-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine, released by Volvo as the first in the "Drive-E" series, features high-pressure injectors that deliver fuel at 20MPa, the highest in its class for gasoline direct-injection engines. Further efficiencies have been achieved through revisions to internal engine friction, a variable control oil pump, an electric water pump, and a new turbocharger, resulting in increased output and improved fuel economy.
As indicated by "the first in the Drive-E series," this engine represents Volvo's new generation of engines. It will be available in both gasoline and diesel variants, sharing basic modules, with various engine configurations planned to match different models by adjusting displacement and forced induction.
Volvo Skovde Engine Plant
Volvo XC60
To manufacture this new generation of units, Volvo has extensively renovated its Skövde plant in Sweden, a facility with over 100 years of history. Approximately 2 billion SEK (about 32 billion yen) has been invested to establish new production lines. This plant is also known for producing Volvo Penta marine engines, employing over 2,000 people, and manufactures large engines for trucks and buses.
The "Drive-E" unit, with a displacement of 1,968cc and designated "B420," is entirely new, as indicated by its displacement compared to the previous T5 engine (B4204T) which was 1,998cc. The new engine for the 60 series produces a maximum output of 180kW (245ps) and a peak torque of 350Nm (35.7kgm). While achieving a 3kW (5ps) / 30Nm (3.1kgm) increase in output compared to the previous T5 engine, it realizes a 23 percent improvement in JC08 mode fuel economy, achieving 13.6 km/liter (XC60). This combination of class-leading performance and fuel efficiency means the "XC60 T5" is Volvo's first model to be fully exempt from taxes, while the "S60 T5" and "V60 T5" are eligible for a 75 percent tax reduction.
The 60 series models equipped with Drive-E now feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 6-speed unit. At 100 km/h, the engine operates at a mere 1,500 rpm in 8th gear, delivering unprecedented fuel efficiency and remarkable quietness.
Volvo S60 / V60 / XC60
New Generation Powertrain "Drive-E" Adopted for 60 Series (2)
Advanced Technologies for Improved Fuel Efficiency
The new T5 models offer an selectable "ECO+" driving mode for enhanced fuel economy. In ECO+ mode, the transmission shift points, engine response, and start/stop function are optimized. Additionally, it incorporates an "ECO COAST" function, which automatically disengages the transmission from the engine, allowing the vehicle to coast. This efficiently controls the powertrain to reduce fuel consumption.
In "ECO+ mode," a dedicated eco-driving mode prioritizing fuel efficiency, the engine automatically stops when the vehicle speed drops to 7 km/h during deceleration. When the accelerator pedal is released while driving between 65-140 km/h, the "ECO COAST" (coasting mode) engages, allowing the vehicle to travel with minimal fuel consumption at idling engine speeds.
While the "ECO COAST" function is active, it is temporarily disengaged if the accelerator or brake pedal is pressed during driving. The "ECO COAST" function reactivates once the pedal is released again.
Volvo V60
Furthermore, the S60 T5 and V60 T5 models now feature an electric power steering system (EPAS). The introduction of EPAS enables the optional availability of LKA (Lane Keeping Aid) and Park Assist Pilot for parallel parking.
The adoption of the new engine has also led to price adjustments. The XC60, with the T5 as its entry-grade model, is strategically priced at 4.99 million yen (including tax). For the S60 and V60, the T5 is introduced as a grade positioned between the T4 and T6. The S60 T5 SE is priced at 4.34 million yen and the V60 T5 SE at 4.54 million yen, both including tax. Additionally, the sporty "R-DESIGN" variants are available for an additional 550,000 yen.
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