Volvo’s electrification programme has delivered a second plug-in petrol-electric hybrid drive for the XC40 compact SUV. The introduction of the new XC40 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T4 increases customer choice and opens the plug-in hybrid technology to a wider market. At the same time, two new mild-hybrid petrol options have been added to the range, in the form of the new XC40 B4 and B5.
The new plug-in hybrid system combines a 129hp 1.5-litre petrol engine, an 82hp electric motor and 10.7kWh rechargeable lithium-ion battery to deliver an all-electric driving range of up to 45km, meaning typical commuting journeys can be completed with zero tailpipe emissions and no petrol consumption. Its seven-speed automatic transmission helps make driving the XC40 Recharge T4 easy, smooth and refined, while official WLTP data records CO2 emissions from just 47g/km and fuel economy of up to 134.5mpg.
The new drive system joins the established Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 in the XC40 range and is available in R-Design and Inscription equipment grades, with front-wheel drive. The new versions are on sale now and first deliveries to customers are expected in October 2020.
New B4 and B5 mild-hybrid petrol powertrains
The XC40 is also newly available in two mild-hybrid versions, which feature a 48-volt battery to support a 2.0-litre petrol engine. A kinetic energy recovery system and an integrated starter generator add to the overall efficiency.
The new B4 produces 197hp and is available with front- or all-wheel drive, while the 250hp B5 comes exclusively with all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on both.
