Volvo announces updates for existing models – highlights new T6 Drive-E AWD with 306 hp/400 Nm

Ever the busy Swedes, Volvo has announced a few new updates for its existing models, and on the top of that list this time around, is a brand’s new T6 Drive-E all-wheel drive powertrain option.

Previously, the 2.0 litre T6 Drive-E petrol engine that’s super- and turbocharged was only offered with a front-wheel drive configuration, sending a massive 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque purely to the front axle.

Today, Volvo has announced the availability of an all-wheel drive system for its T6 Drive-E powertrain. Unlike T8 Twin Engine XC90 plug-in hybrid which has its rear wheels driven by an electric motor, the T6 all-wheel drive system uses a conventional mechanical approach using a propeller shaft.

Details are scarce at the moment, so we’ll have to wait a little longer for things like torque split to be revealed. All we can tell you for now is that the new T6 Drive-E all-wheel drive powertrains will also available for the current Volvo S60, V60 and XC60.

The flagship XC90 is also set to be a recipient of the T6 Drive-E and new AWD system, but there, the T6 will be capable of 320 hp and 400 Nm of torque – that’s a 14 hp improvement over the same engine’s output when fitted to the S60, V60 and XC60 range (torque remains).

Speaking of Volvo’s 60 series of cars, the Swedish carmaker has also announced that its Euro6-compliant T2 engine will be headed to the S60 and V60 models to form new base variants of the cars, offering 122 hp and 220 Nm of torque.

Specifically for Euro 3 markets like India, the Swedish car maker has also added an updated FWD 190 hp/400 Nm D4 variant for the S60 and XC60 models. In other select markets, the D4 can be had in the V60 estate, XC90 SUV and compact V40 (and Cross Country) hatchbacks.

Several updates were also brought to the Volvo’s driver control interface, “Sensus.” In the XC90, the updated Sensus now includes real-time traffic information and free map updates with the Sensus Navigation offer. The XC90 will also be the first Volvo to roll out Apple CarPlay functionality.

Sensus Connect will also get updated with new features, including “Yelp,” an internet-based city guide that can help you find restaurants and various destinations of your choosing – it’s also a real-time locationg sharing application.

The Volvo On Call smartphone app will also get an update, adding an engine remote start function, and a preconditioning (cooling/heating) of the vehicle. Volvo On Call will also offer Smartwatch support, both for the Apple Watch and the Android Wear.

For design and comfort, the 60 Series of Volvos will get new exterior colour options, which are being introduced as R-Design opions – Onyx Black and Osmium Grey. Other final updates include new upholstery and wheel options, and a new massage seat for the XC90.

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