The Volvo XC90 has long been recognized as a leading SUV in the premium segment, and a significant milestone in its evolution was the introduction of its first-ever V8 engine. This article delves into the specifics of this groundbreaking powertrain, focusing on the Volvo Xc90 Hp and the array of advanced technologies that accompanied it. This V8 engine not only enhanced the XC90’s performance but also solidified its position in the competitive North American market and beyond.
Volvo Cars’ foray into V8 engine production was a historic moment, marking the first V8 engine designed and manufactured by the company since its inception in 1927. The Volvo XC90 became the inaugural model to house this powerful engine. Hans Wikman, Vice President, Vehicle Line Large Cars at the time, emphasized the strategic importance of a V8 for the premium SUV market, particularly in North America, a key region for XC90 sales.
A critical engineering decision was to mount the V8 engine transversely, a signature Volvo design choice. This transverse engine layout was crucial for maintaining the XC90’s acclaimed frontal crumple zones, ensuring that the introduction of a larger engine did not compromise the vehicle’s safety standards. This requirement for transverse installation dictated the need for an exceptionally compact V8 engine design. To achieve this compactness, Volvo engineers opted for a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks, deviating from the more common 90-degree configuration. While a 60-degree V8 can introduce imbalance, this was effectively mitigated by incorporating a counter-rotating balancer shaft, ensuring smooth engine operation.
The pursuit of compactness extended to the engine’s ancillary components. Units like the alternator were directly mounted onto the engine block, eliminating bulky brackets and saving valuable space. Similarly, the starter motor was positioned above the transmission to minimize spatial intrusion. Further space optimization was achieved by driving the exhaust camshafts with secondary chains running off the inlet camshafts. An unconventional design choice involved offsetting the left-hand cylinder bank half a cylinder ahead of the right bank. This unique configuration allowed the engine to integrate seamlessly with the XC90’s structural beam network, further enhancing collision safety. Wikman reiterated that this V8 was custom-engineered specifically for the XC90, ensuring optimal integration and performance. The outcome was a V8 engine with remarkably compact dimensions: just 754 mm in length and 635 mm in width, making it one of the most compact V8 engines in its class. Constructed with both the block and cylinder head cast in aluminum, the engine’s weight was kept to a mere 190 kg, contributing to fuel efficiency.
This new Volvo V8 engine was not only powerful and compact but also set a new benchmark for emissions. It was the first petrol V8 engine to meet the stringent American ULEV II (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle, stage II) standards at its launch. Jörgen Svensson, Chief Programme Engineer, highlighted this achievement as a source of pride for Volvo.
Several key technologies contributed to achieving ULEV II compliance:
- Four Catalytic Converters: The engine employed four catalytic converters, with two close-coupled catalysts attached directly to each exhaust manifold for rapid activation and two located under the car floor for further emission reduction.
- Optimized Cold Start Strategy: A higher idling speed during cold starts (around 1250 r/min) and optimized ignition timing facilitated faster engine warm-up and quicker activation of the catalytic converters.
- Lean Air/Fuel Mixture: Utilizing a lean air-fuel mixture during cold starts further minimized emissions during this critical phase.
These measures resulted in exceptionally low emissions, particularly during the initial 15 to 20 seconds after engine startup, which is typically when the majority of harmful emissions occur. The engine also incorporated continuous variable inlet and exhaust valve timing (CVVT). This system dynamically adjusts valve opening times to optimize engine performance across different engine speeds and load conditions, enhancing fuel efficiency, reducing emissions, and boosting overall performance.
In terms of performance, the Volvo XC90 hp from this V8 engine was rated at an impressive 315 horsepower (311 SAE). Crucially for a V8, the torque output was a substantial 440 Nm at 3900 r/min. Even at lower, more typical driving revs around 2000 r/min, the engine delivered a robust 370 Nm of torque. To further enhance low-end torque, the Volvo V8 featured a valve in the inlet manifold that closed below 3200 rpm. This action restricted airflow between the cylinder banks, resulting in a broader and flatter torque curve at lower engine speeds. Svensson described the engine’s character as sporty yet refined, with ample power reserves across the rev range. The Volvo XC90 V8 could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds, with a fuel consumption of 13.3 liters/100 km (for the 5-seater version). The top speed was electronically limited to 210 km/h (190 km/h in the USA). The engine’s sound was also carefully engineered to deliver a distinctive V8 rumble. Volvo opted for a more European-style, muted V8 burble, prioritizing audio comfort for vehicle occupants over a more traditional, louder American V8 throb.
Complementing the V8 engine was a brand-new 6-speed automatic transmission, engineered to handle the engine’s high torque output. This transmission was also designed to be compact to maintain the vehicle’s structural integrity. The sixth gear acted as an overdrive, promoting quiet cruising and improved fuel economy. Svensson highlighted the transmission’s strong “take-off” force and sporty characteristics, noting its ability to hold gears through corners for optimal driving dynamics. The 6-speed transmission was a Geartronic type, offering manual shift capabilities. It also incorporated lock-up and slipping lock-up functionalities across all gears. Volvo employed a comprehensive software suite called CVC (Complete Vehicle Control) to integrate the engine and transmission seamlessly. This software optimized driving properties, performance, and fuel consumption by dynamically adjusting gear selection and torque delivery based on driving conditions.
The Volvo XC90 V8 powertrain also featured an advanced electronic AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system with Instant Traction™. Volvo was the first automaker to introduce this technology, developed by Haldex. Instant Traction™ significantly improved off-the-line acceleration and enhanced grip on slippery surfaces. A non-return valve in the AWD system allowed for pre-charging 80 Nm of torque, minimizing wheelspin during starts by rapidly engaging the rear wheels. This system reduced the typical wheelspin experienced in conventional AWD systems before power was transferred to the rear. The AWD system was also reinforced to manage the V8 engine’s increased power output, with a 50 percent increase in maximum short-term torque capacity at the rear wheels compared to previous XC90 models.
The Volvo XC90 V8 also received subtle yet distinctive exterior design cues. A V8 badge on the grille and tailgate clearly denoted the engine upgrade. Additional differentiating features included new 18-inch wheels, body-colored side moldings and door handles, a graphite-grey grille, new chrome trim around the bumper air intake, and new twin exhaust pipes. Inside the engine bay, Volvo’s design team focused on showcasing the V8 engine. Anders Myrberg, head of engine compartment design, explained the decision to highlight the V8 configuration and inlet pipes rather than concealing the engine under large covers. Volvo’s iconic ‘iron’ symbol was prominently featured on the inlet manifold in relief against brushed aluminum, accompanied by an elegant V8 emblem, underscoring the engine’s significance.
In conclusion, the Volvo XC90 V8 represented a significant leap forward for the model, delivering enhanced performance, sophisticated technology, and distinctive design elements. The Volvo XC90 hp of 315, combined with its advanced transmission and AWD system, solidified its position as a leading premium SUV, particularly appealing to markets demanding powerful and refined vehicles. Volvo’s first V8 engine was a testament to their engineering prowess, balancing performance with safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
