Volvo, known for its focus on safety and engineering excellence, has produced a wide range of engines since 1990. This period saw significant developments in engine technology, from naturally aspirated to turbocharged engines, and the shift towards electrification. Here’s a comprehensive history of Volvo engines from 1990 to the present:
1990s: The Evolution of Inline-Fours and Fives
- B230 and B234 Engines (Redblock Series): In the early 1990s, Volvo continued using the B230 series engines, part of its renowned “Redblock” family. These inline-four engines, which began production in the late ’70s, powered models like the Volvo 240 and 740. The B230 came as naturally aspirated or turbocharged (B230FT) and earned a reputation for durability.
- B200, B204, B230, B234 (DOHC Versions): Volvo introduced DOHC versions, such as the B234, which improved power output. By the mid-1990s, Volvo began focusing more on inline-five engines, phasing out these models.
- Volvo Modular Engines (Whiteblock Series): The mid-1990s marked a turning point with the introduction of the “Whiteblock” engine family, which included inline-four, inline-five, and inline-six engines. These modular engines were lighter, more efficient, and served as the basis for many of Volvo’s subsequent engines.
- B5252S and B5254T (2.5L Inline-Five): One of the most important developments was the 2.5L inline-five engines like the B5252S and B5254T. The turbocharged B5254T engine powered performance-oriented models such as the Volvo 850 T5, delivering power and refinement. The inline-five layout became a Volvo hallmark, offering smooth performance and unique sound characteristics.
- B6304 (3.0L Inline-Six): The larger inline-six engine appeared in models like the Volvo 960. This engine provided more power and refinement for Volvo’s larger sedans and wagons.
2000s: Turbocharging and Diesel Power
- T5 and T6 Engines: The early 2000s saw the widespread use of turbocharging across Volvo’s range. The T5 designation became synonymous with high-performance turbocharged five-cylinder engines, while the T6 indicated turbocharged six-cylinder engines.
- 2.4L Diesel Engines (D5): In the diesel segment, Volvo introduced its successful D5 engine, a 2.4L turbocharged inline-five diesel engine. Known for its reliability and efficiency, the D5 powered a variety of models, from the Volvo S60 to the XC90 SUV. Volvo continually refined this engine, improving power output and fuel efficiency.
- 3.2L Inline-Six (B6324S): In 2006, Volvo introduced a new naturally aspirated inline-six engine, the B6324S, for models like the S80 and XC90. This engine represented the ongoing evolution of Volvo’s modular Whiteblock series.
2010s: Downsizing and Electrification
- Volvo Drive-E Engines (VEA – Volvo Engine Architecture): The 2010s marked a significant shift towards smaller, more efficient engines. Volvo introduced the Drive-E engine family, featuring 2.0L four-cylinder engines with both turbocharging and supercharging for some models. These engines replaced the larger inline-five and inline-six engines in most of Volvo’s lineup.
- T5, T6, and T8 Twin Engine: The T5 continued as a 2.0L turbocharged engine, while the T6 offered both turbocharging and supercharging. The T8 powertrain combined the T6 engine with an electric motor, creating a plug-in hybrid system with high performance and efficiency. This “twin engine” system provided up to 400 horsepower in some models like the XC90 T8.
- D4 and D5 Diesel Engines: On the diesel front, Volvo downsized to 2.0L four-cylinder diesel engines, including the D4 and D5. These engines featured advanced technologies like twin-turbocharging and i-ART fuel injection to meet stricter emissions standards.
- Electric and Hybrid Powertrains: By the late 2010s, Volvo embraced hybrid and electric technologies. The T8 twin-engine plug-in hybrid powertrains played a key role in this strategy, offering a balance between performance and sustainability. In 2017, Volvo announced that all new models launched from 2019 onwards would feature some form of electrification, ranging from mild hybrids to fully electric vehicles.
2020s: Electric Revolution and End of Combustion Era
- Volvo Recharge (BEV and PHEV): The 2020s represent Volvo’s full embrace of electric vehicles. The Volvo Recharge lineup includes both plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and battery electric vehicles (BEV). Volvo’s first fully electric vehicle, the XC40 Recharge, debuted in 2020. It featured a 78 kWh battery and two electric motors, delivering over 400 horsepower. Volvo is committed to becoming a fully electric car company by 2030, phasing out internal combustion engines entirely. Models like the Volvo C40 Recharge will lead this transformation.
- End of the D5 and T5 Engines: As part of the shift towards electrification, Volvo gradually phased out its traditional diesel and gasoline engines. The D5 diesel engine and the T5 turbocharged gasoline engine are being replaced by mild-hybrid and electric powertrains.