Volvo's history of success, including the XC90 crossover, is marked by safety and reliability, but success in one area does not guarantee success in another. Volvo is considering converting a three-row crossover into a plug-in hybrid by replacing the driveshaft and differential with an electric motor and batteries.

Engines

The T8 is built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture, designed to accommodate a 9.2 kWh battery and 87 bhp rear-mounted AC motor without assembly robots. The Twin Engine, featuring a 316 bhp turbo and supercharged four from the T6, and a 46 bhp electric engine, boosts total power output to 400 bhp and 640 N-m torque. The T8's powertrain is highly customizable, offering seven drive modes for fuel efficiency, sportiness, weather response, and off-road capability. 

The self-programmable mode offers 432 potential combinations for customization, including air suspension, steering, instrument display, brake, and climate control settings. The T8 is a rear-wheel drive vehicle in all electric mode, with a limited range of 21 km. It operates in FWD or AWD, with the rear electric motor engaged and the petrol engine increasing throttle response. Volvo has integrated technology into the T6 without compromising cabin or cargo area, adding 205 kg to the curb weight of the vehicle, despite incorporating both petrol and electric engine combustion.

Performance

The primary issue reported by reviewers and owners with the T6 is a lack of power. The T8's 400 total horsepower appears to make up for that weakness on paper. As it turns out, those extra ponies are quite adept at traveling straight ahead, reaching 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds as opposed to the T6's six seconds. The T8's curb weight has significantly impacted its skidpad performance, dropping from 0.84 to 0.81 between the T6 and T8, affecting the vehicle's ability to handle sideways.

The test involves a driver maintaining a vehicle on a 91m radius circle while increasing speed until it slides off, with results measured in g-forces. Skidpad issues, increased braking distance, and lack of steering make the ride torturous over broken pavement. Drive system disconnect causes oversteer in wet or snowy conditions. The activity, while enjoyable for adventurous drivers, can lead to spilled drinks and become annoying for both the driver and passengers.   

Features

Although it might not be the most nimble crossover available, the T8 is nonetheless stylish and well-equipped. Upgrading to the Inscription trim adds luxurious leather and wood accents. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system will provide exceptional separation and clarity. The XC90's tablet-style interface makes the technology simple to use. The hybrid drive system of the T8 is highly valued by Volvo. Starting at L14,000 more than the T6, the T8 offers more features, but what do you get in exchange? It's not fuel efficiency. 

The hybrid drive in the T6 only provides 1.2 km/l more than the gasoline engine. Of course, if you can maintain a low enough speed and acceleration for 21 consecutive kilometers, you can drive 21 kilometers entirely on electricity. It takes the battery almost three hours to fully charge after it is empty. Such fuel efficiency would require almost 15 years of ownership to offset the additional cost of the hybrid system. The T8 hybrid is a terrible letdown compared to the excellent crossover XC90, demonstrating that success in one endeavor does not imply success in another.

Finally

The Volvo XC90 is a luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and elegant design. It's available with various powertrains, including hybrid options. You can check the Volvo XC90 stocklist for more available models.