Volvo launches new Drive-E engines

Volvo has unveiled an updated 2015 V40 for the international markets. With this, the carmaker has taken the opportunity to introduce high-powered petrol and diesel versions of its all-new modular four-cylinder Drive-E engine family into its smallest model.

Buyers can now choose a Volvo V40 D4 powered by a 188bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel, or a 242bhp V40 T5 with a twin-turbocharged petrol-burning engine. The D4 version uses a new Denso-developed system of injector pressure sensors, the company claims, will allow for better fuel metering for smoother running and cleaner exhaust emissions. The V40 D4 has a top speed of over 225kph and can accelerate from 0-100kph in just 6.8sec.

With the new Drive-E engines, Volvo will replace its entire suite of ageing engines and will work towards bringing them under the Drive-E umbrella.

According to Michael Fleiss, Volvo’s head of powertrain, the company eventually wants to offer four Drive-E petrol engines with power outputs ranging between 150bhp and 300bhp, and four diesels ranging between 120bhp and 230bhp.

All the new engines will be built in Sweden, although the company intends to make Drive-E engines in China too, to power the models it will build there.