Sector: Premium SUV Price: €76,705–€80,305 Fuel: 2.1l/100km CO2: 49g/km

When Volvo launched the new XC90 in 2015, the range consisted of the 320hp T6 petrol powered model and the 225hp D5 diesel model. A T8 plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) was included in the model range from the start, but was not available at launch. Now it is making its debut in all markets where Volvo sells the XC90.

The car combines the 320hp 1,969cc four-cylinder petrol engine of the T6, driving the front wheels, with an 87hp electric motor, which drives the rear wheels. Like other PHEVs, this gives a variety of drive options. The default mode is ‘Hybrid’ where both the petrol engine and electric motor are used either individually or together. ‘Power mode’ uses both power sources for maximum performance. ‘Pure’ uses only the electric motor, offering a maximum range of 43km, according to Volvo. ‘Save’ uses the petrol engine only, saving the battery energy for zero emissions zones or where needed. ‘AWD’ is used for low speeds on poor traction surfaces or other situations where all-wheel-drive is desirable. ‘Off Road’, engages an electronically-controlled limited slip differential function at speeds below 40km/h. ‘Individual’ allows a degree of customisation combining some settings to suit individual tastes. Recharging takes around 2.5 hours.

Like other PHEV models, one of the big advantages for fleet drivers operating where CO2 emissions-related taxes are applied is the potentially low rates of tax. Under the European NEDC cycle, the T8 returns CO2 emissions of 49g/km and combined fuel consumption of 2.1l/100km. These figures are lower than originally quoted at the XC90 launch following further tuning. These may be credible figures for those who re-charge the battery every night and use the car for electric-only commuting during the week, but for many drivers combining both electric and petrol drive most of the time, fuel consumption is likely to be much higher. For fleet drivers whose fuel is paid for by their employer, the tax advantages will mean fuel consumption is likely to matter less as the potential tax benefits will outweigh any such considerations.

Otherwise, the XC90 comes with the same range of trim options: and long list of optional equipment. Eight-speed automatic transmission is standard and there is a long list of safety equipment as you might expect from a Volvo. The XC90 was the first Volvo to adopt the company’s latest touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto bringing a selection of apps for drivers too.

Choosing a drive mode simply involves using the selector on the centre console, while additional regenerative braking can be brought in by tapping the gear selector back to the ‘B’ position. Air suspension is an option, but I prefer the better body control offered by the standard steel suspension and would pick other options over the air ride. Otherwise, the XC90 is as impressive as before with subdued engine, effortless eight-speed automatic transmission and plenty of comfort and space for up to seven occupants. It would be an impressive long-distance cruiser. Driver usage would determine how effective the hybrid option would be for individual drivers.

Verdict:

The T8 offers a low-emissions alternative to diesel power for the XC90 with benefits for fleets where CO2 emissions-related tax schemes are in use.