Volvo Debuts New Three-Cylinder Engine in XC40
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
Editor Garipoint
Volvo XC40 now gets a three-cylinder petrol engine option

Volvo Cars launched its new three-cylinder Drive-E powertrain in the XC40 and is the initial three-cylinder engine in the company's 91-year history. The new engine has been developed in-house and is based on an indistinguishable modular design as Volvo's four-cylinder Drive-E engines.

The new three-cylinder powertrain has been designed for joining into Twin Engine plug-in hybrid cars. A hybridized, as well as a pure electric powertrain option for the XC40, will be added later. XC40 customers now have more decision in trim levels, including entry-level Momentum and dynamic R-Design versions, plus the luxurious new Inscription trim level.

The Volvo XC40 presently gets a couple of 2.0-litre powertrain options, the T4 diesel (190PS/400Nm) and the T5 petrol (250PS/350Nm). Both the engines are mated to an 8-speed auto and will power the CBU XC40 at launch in India. Apart from the new Drive-E 3-cylinder petrol engine, Volvo has likewise introduced the D3 diesel (150PS/320Nm) from the V40 hatchback with the SUV. A lower-spec petrol, the T4 (190PS), has also been added to the XC40's range.

Besides this, the XC40 now comes in another range-topping Inscription variant, which will also be offered in India alongside the base Momentum in its diesel avatar. Compared to other variants, the Inscription packs up to 20-inch wheels, new skid plates and side window and grill mesh chrome. From inside, the Inscription comes with a crystal gear knob and 'Driftwood' applique on the dashboard.

The new XC40 is based on Volvo's new modular vehicle architecture (CMA). A similar platform additionally underpins all other upcoming cars in the 40 Series, which includes the fully electrified vehicles too. The XC40 is expected to launch in India in mid-2018, where it will rival the BMW X1, Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3.