The Volvo S90 and V90 range-topping saloon and estate models can now be ordered with a new petrol engine targeted primarily at company drivers.
The T4 unit is a Euro 6 emissions compliant 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 190hp and mated to an automatic transmission. Volvo currently only offers a petrol engine as part of the hybrid models, alongside two diesel units.
The Swedish brand believes the new engine will appeal to drivers wanting to stick with petrol drivetrains but still take advantage of higher fuel economy figures closer to those recorded with diesel units. The T4 engine returns combined cycle economy of 42.2 mpg in the S90 and 40.9 mpg in the V90.
Volvo will offer T4 versions of the S90 and V90 across the full trim level line-up from Momentum to Inscription Pro. Standard equipment includes the Sensus nine-inch touchscreen control system, satellite navigation with real-time traffic information, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection, the Pilot Assist semi-autonomous drive technology, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control and leather-faced upholstery. Depending on the trim level, T4 versions are available with wheels ranging from 18 to 21 inches.
Retaining former diesel car buyers
Diesel engine sales have been sliding in recent months on the back of negative publicity over their emissions, with registrations of new diesel cars down 15% year-to-date and 30% in October alone.
According to Volvo Car UK’s Head of Business Sales, Steve Beattie, petrol engines are becoming an increasingly popular choice with motorists, including business users. “It’s imperative we offer the range of engines that our customers demand, and we expect strong interest in the S90 and V90 T4,” he says.