Volvo XC90 T8 hybrid emits 49g/km

Volvo has announced the economy figures for the T8 plug-in hybrid version of the XC90, which produces peak power of 407PS and peak torque of 640Nm, yet has official economy of 134.5mpg and emits 49g/km of CO2.

That means it is free to tax and congestion charge exempt. Range on electric power alone is up to 26 miles. The XC90 T8 is priced from £59,995.

The figures are based on the NEDC test cycle, which all cars must complete. Like other plug-in hybrids real world economy is likely to be less impressive, especially on longer journeys, since economy drops when the battery is depleted.

The XC90 T8 has several driving modes. Pure electric uses the battery alone unless the driver demands extra power by pressing the throttle hard. Power mode combines the engine and electric motor to deliver the best performance, while the default Hybrid mode chooses the power source automatically to deliver a balance of performance and economy.

There is also a ‘Save’ setting, allowing he driver to keep the battery charged for later. Finally, all-wheel drive mode forces the XC90 to send power to all wheels, for off-road or poor weather use.

Did you know the Volvo XC90 hybrid is exempt from the London Congestion charge? Find out more with our top 20 cars that beat the congestion charge