Volvo V60 II 2.0 B4 (197 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT

The Volvo V60 II 2.0 B4 (197 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT: A Comprehensive Overview

The Volvo V60 II, introduced in 2018, represents the second generation of Volvo’s mid-size premium station wagon, a segment where the Swedish automaker has historically excelled. The specific variant under review, the Volvo V60 II 2.0 B4 (197 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT, launched in February 2022, exemplifies Volvo’s commitment to electrification and efficiency within its core internal combustion engine lineup. Positioned as a versatile and sophisticated family vehicle, the V60 II B4 Mild Hybrid targets the European market, where station wagons, often referred to as “estates,” maintain significant popularity due to their blend of practicality, style, and dynamic driving characteristics. This model effectively combines a potent yet frugal gasoline engine with a mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) system, delivering a balanced performance profile tailored for modern driving demands.

Engine and Performance: The Electrified Powertrain

At the heart of the Volvo V60 II 2.0 B4 Mild Hybrid DCT lies a sophisticated powertrain architecture. The primary motive force comes from a 2.0-liter (1969 cm³ or 120.16 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated B420T5. This unit is equipped with a direct injection fuel system, a turbocharger, and an intercooler, ensuring both robust power delivery and efficient combustion. The engine features a DOHC valvetrain and four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow and combustion efficiency. With a compression ratio of 12:1, it is tuned to produce a respectable 197 horsepower (Hp) between 4750 and 5250 rpm, translating to a power output of 100.1 Hp per liter.

Crucially, the B4 engine is augmented by a mild-hybrid system. This MHEV setup integrates an electric motor, producing 14 Hp and 29.5 lb.-ft. (40 Nm) of torque, directly into the transmission. The mild-hybrid system, also known as a power-assist or battery-assisted hybrid vehicle (BAHV), is designed to enhance efficiency and performance without requiring plug-in charging. It assists the gasoline engine during acceleration, recovers energy during deceleration and braking, and enables a smoother, more refined operation of the Start & Stop system. This integration contributes to a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, allowing the V60 B4 to meet stringent Euro 6d emission standards.

Power is channeled to the front wheels through a quick-shifting 7-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This combination allows the V60 II 2.0 B4 Mild Hybrid DCT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 7.2 seconds (calculated) or 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 7.6 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 111.85 mph (180 km/h), a common practice among modern European premium vehicles, particularly Volvos, prioritizing safety and efficiency. The engine also delivers a strong torque output of 221.27 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) available across a broad rev range, from 1500 to 4200 rpm, ensuring responsive performance in various driving conditions, from city commuting to highway cruising.

Fuel efficiency, a key benefit of the mild-hybrid system, is impressive for a vehicle of this size and capability. The combined WLTP fuel consumption ranges from 6.2-6.9 liters per 100 km, which translates to an excellent 37.9 – 34.1 US mpg. This efficiency, coupled with a 15.85 US gallon (60-liter) fuel tank, provides a substantial cruising range, making the V60 B4 a practical choice for long journeys.

Design and Features: Scandinavian Elegance and Practicality

The Volvo V60 II embodies Volvo’s modern design language, characterized by clean lines, elegant proportions, and a strong sense of Scandinavian sophistication. As a five-door, five-seat station wagon, it combines aesthetic appeal with exceptional practicality. Its exterior dimensions are substantial yet well-proportioned: 188.11 inches (4778 mm) in length, 72.83 inches (1850 mm) in width (80.31 inches or 2040 mm including mirrors), and 56.38 inches (1432 mm) in height. The long wheelbase of 113.07 inches (2872 mm) contributes to both a spacious cabin and a stable, comfortable ride. With a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29, the V60 is aerodynamically efficient, further aiding fuel economy and reducing wind noise.

Inside, the V60 offers a premium experience with high-quality materials, ergonomic design, and a minimalist aesthetic. Volvo’s commitment to safety is paramount, and while specific features are not detailed in the raw data, the V60 II comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) as standard or optional, building on Volvo’s reputation for pioneering automotive safety. These typically include features like City Safety (autonomous emergency braking), Lane Keeping Aid, Run-off Road Mitigation, and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

Practicality is a hallmark of the station wagon body type, and the V60 II excels in this regard. It offers a generous minimum trunk space of 18.33 cu. ft. (519 liters), which expands to a cavernous 50.54 cu. ft. (1431 liters) with the rear seats folded down, making it highly suitable for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone needing substantial cargo capacity. The vehicle also boasts a respectable permitted trailer load of 3968.32 lbs (1800 kg) with brakes, underscoring its versatility.

The V60’s chassis features a double wishbone front suspension and a unique leaf spring rear suspension, both complemented by transverse stabilizers. This setup is engineered to deliver a comfortable yet engaging driving experience, characteristic of premium European vehicles. Braking is handled by disc brakes all around, with varying sizes depending on the configuration (e.g., 296×28-371×32 mm front, 302×12-320×20 mm rear), ensuring strong and consistent stopping power. The electric power steering system provides precise control and ease of maneuverability, with a minimum turning circle ranging from 37.4 to 39.7 feet (11.4-12.1 meters). The V60 offers a range of tire and wheel options, from 215/60 R16 up to 245/35 R20, allowing for customization of both aesthetics and handling characteristics.

Technical Specifications: Volvo V60 II 2.0 B4 Mild Hybrid DCT

Legacy and Market Impact: The Volvo V60 II in the Premium Segment

The Volvo V60 II 2.0 B4 (197 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT continues Volvo’s strong legacy in the premium station wagon segment, particularly in Europe. While the V60 is not as widely marketed in the United States as its SUV counterparts (like the XC60 or XC90), it remains a cornerstone of Volvo’s European lineup, offering a compelling alternative to traditional sedans and SUVs. Its primary competitors include established German rivals such as the BMW 3 Series Touring, Audi A4 Avant, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, as well as the Skoda Superb Combi and Volkswagen Passat Variant in the broader premium-midsize category.

The V60 distinguishes itself through its distinctive Scandinavian design, which prioritizes elegance, functionality, and a less aggressive aesthetic compared to some German competitors. Volvo’s unwavering commitment to safety technologies and its reputation for building durable, family-friendly vehicles also provide a strong market advantage. The integration of the mild-hybrid B4 powertrain is particularly impactful, addressing growing consumer demand for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions without the added complexity or cost of a full plug-in hybrid system. This positions the V60 B4 as an environmentally conscious choice within its segment, helping owners navigate increasingly strict emission regulations and benefit from potential tax incentives in various European markets.

The V60 II’s market impact is further solidified by its versatile nature. It appeals to a diverse demographic, from young families requiring ample cargo space and safety features to business professionals seeking a stylish and comfortable long-distance cruiser. Its balanced performance, combined with its sophisticated mild-hybrid technology, ensures that the V60 remains a relevant and competitive offering in a dynamic automotive landscape. The 2022 update, featuring the B4 mild-hybrid engine and the 7-speed DCT, reinforces Volvo’s strategy to electrify its entire lineup, offering a stepping stone towards a fully electric future while providing immediate benefits in efficiency and refinement for its current internal combustion engine models. The V60 II thus maintains Volvo’s position as a leader in innovative, safe, and sustainable premium transportation.