Volvo Announces Powertrains for 2015 XC90

New Volvo XC90 Powertrain Announced (Credit: © Volvo)

Ahead of the official reveal of the 2015 XC90, Volvo is doing a slow reveal of some key parts of the all-new three-row crossover. First, it showed off some pictures and spilled key details of the interior, which looks incredibly luxurious. Now, the Swedish automaker is divulging what will be motivating the next-generation model down roads and the details are pretty interesting, to say the least.

In the United States, we will be receiving two different powertrain options, unlike the rest of the world, thanks to our market’s aversion to diesel fuel. The second big juicy piece of news is that the big vehicle will be powered by four-cylinder gasoline engines, a detail that might surprise anyone who has not been following the latest developments from Sweden.

Before you throw your hands up in despair and declare that the XC90 will be woefully underpowered, read on. The first powertrain setup will be called the T6, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is both supercharged and turbocharged. The Swedes say output is expected at 316 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, which isn’t too shabby for such a small engine. An automatic transmission and all-wheel drive round out the offering.

New Volvo XC90 Powertrain Announced (Credit: © Volvo)

New Volvo XC90 Powertrain, Plug-in (Credit: © Volvo)

The real star is the T8, which uses the same gasoline engine with its dual force-feeding setup, as well as a 60-kilowatt electric motor. Oh, and it’s a plug-in, which will help lower the fuel consumption for owners. The combined setup produces an impressive 400 horsepower and 472 lb.-ft. of torque. There’s no word on how quickly it accelerates, but it is likely going to be at least fairly quick. The gasoline engine powers the front wheels, while the electric motor powers the rear. Drivers will be able to drive on pure electricity for about 25 miles, making it the perfect way to make short trips in the city without burning any gas. Emissions are expected to be as low as 60 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

Stay tuned, because in about a month the rest of the new model will be revealed.