Volvo Car Japan announced on August 25 that it has revamped the powertrains for its compact SUV XC40, premium mid-size SUV XC60, and flagship SUV XC90, and began sales on the same day.

With the addition of a plug-in hybrid model for the XC40, all plug-in hybrid models are now available in the domestic lineup. Furthermore, by making all SUV models (XC40, XC60, XC90) 48V hybrid models other than plug-in hybrids, the lineup no longer includes models with only internal combustion engines.

Additionally, all models are equipped with a 180 km/h speed limiter and a Care Key that allows users to set a voluntary maximum speed. In terms of advanced safety and driver assistance features, the "City Safety" (Collision Avoidance and Mitigation Braking System) has been enhanced with "Oncoming Lane Mitigation" and "Pedestrian, Cyclist and Large Animal Detection" functions, as well as "Intersection Support (Oncoming Vehicle Detection when Turning Right)" as the best possible measures a car can take to prevent accidents. Also notable is the standard equipment of "Adaptive Cruise Control with Full Speed Range," "Pilot Assist (Lane Keeping Aid)," "Blind Spot Information System with Steering Assist," "Cross Traffic Alert with Collision Avoidance and Mitigation Braking," "Run-off Road Mitigation," and "Oncoming Lane Mitigation."

The previous "T4" and "T5" powertrains have been discontinued, and new 48V hybrid models "B4" and "B5," along with the plug-in hybrid model "Recharge Plug-in hybrid T5," have been introduced.

The Recharge Plug-in hybrid T5 is the first plug-in hybrid model on Volvo's compact car platform, "CMA" (Compact Modular Architecture). It is a front-wheel-drive model that combines a newly developed 1.5-liter three-cylinder direct-injection gasoline turbo engine producing 132 kW (180 ps) / 265 Nm (27.0 kgm) with a 60 kW / 160 Nm electric motor and a newly developed 7-speed DCT, achieving a smooth driving feel and high efficiency.

Zero-emission driving is possible solely on electric power, with a plug-in range of 45.6 km. Furthermore, fuel consumption optimization has been achieved during hybrid driving through the combination of a small-displacement engine, electric motor, and 7-speed DCT.

The new product line, Recharge, signifies Volvo Cars' commitment to electrification and will be used as the designation for future battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles, derived from the meaning "externally chargeable."

The B4 is equipped with a main engine producing 145 kW (197 ps) and 300 Nm (30.6 kgm), available in both FF and AWD models. The B5 features a high-output engine producing 184 kW (250 ps) and 350 Nm (35.7 kgm), delivering high driving performance in combination with AWD.

The 4-cylinder, 2-liter direct-injection turbo engine is equipped with a highly efficient new-generation powertrain featuring a 48V hybrid system. This system uses the ISGM (Integrated Starter Generator Module) for regenerative braking to generate electricity, which is stored in a 48V lithium-ion battery to start the engine and provide power assistance.

The ISGM is used for charging the battery module, starting the engine, assisting vehicle output, and braking. By using the ISGM to start the engine instead of a starter motor, noise and vibration during restarts after idling stop are significantly reduced, contributing to a more refined driving experience.

The engine itself is part of the third-generation Drive-E powertrain, with approximately 90% of its parts newly designed. It achieves excellent efficiency, environmental performance, and a compact design. Together with the new-generation CMA platform, it incorporates a high level of collision safety performance.

Improvements such as surface treatment of the cylinders have been made to reduce internal engine friction. Additionally, the introduction of the CDA (Cylinder Deactivation) system allows for two-cylinder operation under certain conditions, improving fuel economy. Various modifications, including to the exhaust system, have also been implemented to reduce noise levels both inside and outside the cabin. Prices range from 4.09 million to 6.49 million yen.

The previous "D4" and "T6" powertrains have been discontinued. In addition to the "B5" 48V hybrid model introduced in April 2020, a new "B6" model equipped with an electric supercharger has been added. The existing "Twin Engine T8" has been renamed "Recharge Plug-in hybrid T8" with the introduction of the Recharge product line.

The newly introduced B6 powertrain features 48V hybrid technology for improved fuel efficiency in everyday driving and a refined driving feel. It combines a turbocharger that generates ample torque across a wide range of engine speeds with an electric supercharger for excellent response at low RPMs, producing 220 kW (300 ps) and 420 Nm (42.8 kgm).

Like other 48V hybrid powertrains, it is equipped with an ISGM. Electricity generated by the motor's regenerative braking is stored in a 48V lithium-ion battery, which is used for engine starts and power assistance, achieving a balance of high output and high efficiency.

Additionally, the newly established "Inscription Expression" grade has been added as an entry-level option for the plug-in hybrid model. By reviewing the equipment level, it offers a more cost-effective model compared to the "Recharge Plug-in hybrid T8 AWD Inscription," making it more accessible.

Prices range from 6.39 million to 9.49 million yen.

The previous "D5" and "T6" powertrains have been discontinued. In addition to the "B5" 48V hybrid model introduced in April 2020, a new "B6" model equipped with an electric supercharger has been added. The existing "Twin Engine T8" has been renamed "Recharge Plug-in hybrid T8" with the introduction of the Recharge product line.

The newly introduced B6 powertrain features 48V hybrid technology for improved fuel efficiency in everyday driving and a refined driving feel. It combines a turbocharger that generates ample torque across a wide range of engine speeds with an electric supercharger for excellent response at low RPMs, producing 220 kW (300 ps) and 420 Nm (42.8 kgm) as a high-performance powertrain.

Like other 48V hybrid powertrains, it is equipped with an ISGM. The hybrid system uses electricity generated by the motor's regenerative braking, stored in a 48V lithium-ion battery, for engine starts and power assistance, achieving a balance of high output and high efficiency.

Prices range from 8.34 million to 11.39 million yen.