As Volvo continues its march towards a more sustainable future, the automaker has gradually expanded electrification throughout its lineup. In addition to its Recharge pure-electric and plug-in hybrid options, Volvo introduced new mild-hybrid variants of its popular T5 and T6 engines in select 2022 models. Now, with the 2023 model year taking shape, the company has rolled out these B5 and B6 powertrains to the rest of the roster.
While Volvo is targeting a 100% pure-electric lineup by the end of the decade, these new mild-hybrid powertrains are a way to improve the efficiency and lessen the environmental impact of its current lineup while its longer-term electrification plans unfold.
What Is a Mild-Hybrid Vehicle?
Volvo's mild-hybrid vehicles integrate a small electric motor and battery to assist the gasoline engine during higher-load situations. The motor has two tasks. First, it captures the energy typically lost during deceleration and stores it in the battery (regenerative braking). It then redeploys that energy to reduce the engine's workload in situations like ignition and stop-starting. The result is improved fuel efficiency, smoother acceleration, and reduced emissions.
Volvo Mild-Hybrid Models
Aside from the additional electric component, Volvo's "B" engines are similar to their T counterparts.
- B4: Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (194 horsepower; 221 pound-feet of torque); standard in Volvo XC40
- B5: Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (247 horsepower; 258 pound-feet of torque); standard in Volvo S60, V60 Cross Country, XC60, XC90; available for XC40
- B6: Turbo and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (295 horsepower, 310 pound-feet of torque); standard in Volvo S90, V90 Cross Country; available for XC60, XC90
To demonstrate the difference in efficiency between the "T" and "B" powertrains, we'll use Volvo's largest model, the XC90, as an example. Last year, the XC90 came standard with a gas-only T5 powertrain that achieved EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. With its new standard B5 powertrain, the XC90 sees a small but noticeable improvement, reaching EPA ratings of 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.
Test Drive a New Volvo Mild-Hybrid Vehicle near Bellevue and Council Bluffs
If you have further questions about Volvo's powertrain configurations, the latest Volvo models, or available financing/reservation opportunities, please reach out to Gorges Volvo Cars at your convenience. If you'd like to try a new Volvo for yourself, we invite you to visit our Omaha Volvo dealership, where you can get behind the wheel for a test drive.
AdChoices