Show All Photos

Show All Photos

Europe Volvo's First Three-Cylinder Engine Debuts in XC40

By Tim Charlet on September 5, 2018

Volvo’s European division has introduced a new engine platform for the XC40 that gets smaller – yet more efficient. The company’s first three-cylinder gasoline-powered engine is poised to make its debut in the XC40 premium small SUV in the UK market later this year. Wearing the T3 nameplate designation, this engine will be an entry-level variant – designed as an affordable option for consumers.

The Swedish auto-manufacturer introduced a new engine that fits within its efficiently-engineered Drive-E engine category. The three-cylinder engine displaces 1.5-liters and produces 156 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired to a six-speed manual transmission, which can achieve a zero to 62 mph time of 9.4-seconds and tow a maximum weight of 1.6-tons.

The managing director of Volvo Car UK, Jon Wakefield stated, “The XC40 is the ideal recipient of the new T3 engine, a unit that demonstrates Volvo's commitment to innovative engineering and technology that prioritizes compact packaging without compromising performance and efficiency. Together with the other powertrain additions to the line-up, it gives us a comprehensive model range that will help the XC40 achieve its full market potential.”

The UK variant of the XC40 is offered in three trim levels – the Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription – each of which can be configured with the three-cylinder engine and upgraded to a “Pro” specification. The Momentum is equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, two-zone climate control, and satellite navigation. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and rear parking sensors. The R-Design trim adds a sporty styling enhancement and more aggressive suspension settings to improve performance.

On top of the XC40 food chain is the range-topping Inscription, which enhances the interior with leather upholstery, wood-cabin trim, and a power tailgate. When consumers in the UK upgrade to the Pro specification, they will gain heated seats, larger alloy wheels, cornering headlights and a heated windscreen. While this three-cylinder engine is going to be released in the UK, there is no word as to whether the T3 gasoline engine will be available in the United States.

Tags: Breaking NewsEngineNew ModelSpecs