[Test Drive] "Safety as a Priority, Eco-Friendly Focus"…Volvo V60 and XC40 Equipped with 'B Engine'

Test Drive of XC40 B4 and V60 B5 Equipped with Mild Hybrid Engine

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] "Volvo no longer talks only about human safety and road safety, but is now considering how to protect the planet and the environment as an automotive brand."

The 'symbol of safety,' Volvo, has begun its journey to become an eco-friendly brand. According to the global headquarters' carbon emission reduction plan aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2040, Volvo announced that it will release all future vehicles with mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains instead of pure diesel or gasoline engines. In the short term, the goal is to have 50% of global sales be pure electric vehicles and the remainder hybrids by 2025.

Volvo Cars Korea recently held a media event in Taean, Chungnam, allowing participants to directly experience these changes. At the event, attendees test-drove the XC40 equipped with the B4 engine and the Cross Country V60 fitted with the B5 engine.

Volvo Cars XC40 (Photo by Volvo Cars Korea)

Volvo Cars XC40 Interior (Photo by Volvo Cars Korea)

The letter 'B' preceding the model name denotes Volvo's mild hybrid vehicles. It is an advanced kinetic energy recovery system combined with a 2.0ℓ gasoline engine, forming an integrated electrified powertrain. Volvo explains that this system improves fuel efficiency by about 10% and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 7g per kilometer. The mild hybrid powertrains sold domestically by Volvo consist of B4 (197 horsepower), B5 (250 horsepower), and B6 (300 horsepower).

The XC40 B4 model delivers a maximum output of 197 horsepower and a peak torque of 30.6 kg·m. Despite its compact size, it offers ample power and torque, resulting in light and agile driving performance. The previous XC40 received somewhat disappointing reviews regarding acceleration, but the new B4 engine addresses these concerns. The Pilot Assist feature, which maintains a consistent distance from the vehicle ahead, also operates satisfactorily.

Volvo Cars Cross Country V60 (Photo by Volvo Cars Korea)

Volvo Cars Cross Country V60 Interior (Photo by Volvo Cars Korea)

The other test drive model, the Cross Country V60 B5, boasts a maximum output of 250 horsepower and a peak torque of 35.7 kg·m. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic Geartronic transmission, delivering more dynamic driving performance. The characteristics of the Cross Country, which is a crossover between a sedan and an SUV, combined with the B5 engine, allow for a more stable driving experience. While the XC40 B4 emphasizes light and nimble handling, the V60 drives smoothly and solidly, befitting its higher model status.

Noise insulation is one of the best-rated aspects even in the standard V60 model, and the B5 model offers even greater satisfaction. Unlike the XC40 B4, where some interior noise was noticeable, the V60 B5 effectively blocks wind noise and other sounds.

The ground clearance is raised by 74 mm compared to the regular V60, improving visibility. The risk of damage to the vehicle body when driving on uneven surfaces is also significantly reduced.

The smooth acceleration without any dullness at speeds over 100 km/h is impressive. The vehicle itself provides excellent stability, reducing driver fatigue even without advanced technologies. Switching the driving mode to 'Dynamic Mode' allows for a sportier driving experience. In addition to Dynamic Mode, the vehicle supports a total of five modes: 'Eco' for improved fuel efficiency, 'Comfort' for everyday driving, 'Off-road' for rough terrain, and 'Individual' for personalized settings.

The price of the XC40 B4 test-driven that day ranges from 46.7 million to 51.3 million KRW, while the Cross Country V60 B5 ranges from 53.3 million to 59.4 million KRW.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.