2016-2017 Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV 2.0L

Overview

The 2016-2017 Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine (PHEV) represents a pivotal moment in Volvo’s history, marking the debut of the company’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. As the flagship of the second-generation XC90, this plug-in hybrid variant showcased Volvo’s commitment to electrification and safety, signaling a departure from traditional large-displacement engines in favor of high-output, forced-induction four-cylinder powertrains. Engineered in Sweden, the vehicle was designed to compete directly with established luxury SUVs from German rivals, emphasizing Scandinavian minimalism, superior ergonomics, and a “human-centric” approach to technology.

The XC90 PHEV is powered by a sophisticated “Twin Engine” setup, combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged gasoline engine with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle. This configuration provides true all-wheel-drive capability without the need for a mechanical driveshaft, offering a unique blend of efficiency and performance. Upon its release, it was widely praised for its interior design, which featured high-quality materials such as open-pore wood and crystal glass gear shifters, setting a new benchmark for Volvo’s luxury aspirations. The model remains a significant milestone in the automotive industry, as it was one of the first luxury SUVs to successfully integrate plug-in hybrid technology into a three-row family hauler without compromising interior space or utility.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	XC90 AWD PHEV
Model Year	2016-2017
Generation	2nd Generation
Trim	T8 Twin Engine
Body Style	SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Luxury SUV
Vehicle Class	Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	SPA (Scalable Product Architecture)
Assembly Plant	Torslanda, Sweden
Country of Origin	Sweden
Production Start	2015
Production End	–
VIN Identifier	–
Base MSRP	$68,100
Destination Charge	$995
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Engine Family	Volvo Drive-E
Engine Name	B4204T35
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.0 mm x 93.2 mm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged and Supercharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-Valve
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	5.9 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	0W-20
Horsepower	400 hp (Combined)
Torque	472 lb-ft (Combined)
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91+
EPA City MPG	24
EPA Highway MPG	27
EPA Combined MPG	25
EPA City MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	53
EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	54
EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	54
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.8
Estimated Driving Range	14 miles (Electric only)
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,100
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Electric Vehicle System
Battery Supplier	LG Chem
Battery Chemistry	Lithium-ion
Gross Battery Capacity (kWh)	9.2
Usable Battery Capacity (kWh)	–
System Voltage	400V
Number of Motors	2 (1 Integrated Starter Generator, 1 Rear Axle Motor)
Combined Output	400 hp
Combined Torque	472 lb-ft
EPA Range (Miles)	14
On-board Charger Power (kW)	3.6
AC Charging Power	3.6 kW
DC Fast Charging Power	N/A
Charge Port	J1772
Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS)	–
DC Charge Time (10-80%)	N/A
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)	No
Vehicle-to-Home (V2H)	No
Heat Pump	No
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	5.3 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	13.9 seconds
Top Speed	140 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	118 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	194.8
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	79.1
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	84.3
Height (in)	69.9
Wheelbase (in)	117.5
Front Track (in)	66.0
Rear Track (in)	66.0
Ground Clearance (in)	9.4
Curb Weight (lbs)	5,168
GVWR (lbs)	6,500
Towing Capacity (lbs)	5,000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	103
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	15.8
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	85.7
Turning Circle	38.7 ft
Approach Angle	23.8°
Departure Angle	23.3°
Breakover Angle	19.0°
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick+
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Good
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	9-inch Sensus Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	12.3-inch Digital Display
Apple CarPlay	Yes
Android Auto	Yes
Navigation System	Standard
Audio System	Bowers & Wilkins (Optional)
Speaker Count	19
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Yes
OTA Updates	Limited
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / Unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	4 years / Unlimited miles
Complimentary Maintenance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Hybrid Component Warranty	8 years / 100,000 miles
EV Battery Warranty	8 years / 100,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Battery Cell Manufacturer	LG Chem
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Electronic Rear Axle Drive
Cooling System Capacity	–
Frunk Capacity (cu ft)	0
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2016-2017 Volvo XC90 T8 is highly regarded in the used luxury market for its exceptional safety ratings, sophisticated interior design, and potent performance. However, prospective buyers should be aware that early production models of this generation are known for complex electronic gremlins, particularly within the Sensus infotainment system and the hybrid battery management software. While the powertrain is remarkably powerful, the complexity of the twin-charged engine and the electric motor system necessitates strict adherence to maintenance schedules. On the used market, the XC90 T8 offers significant value for those seeking a premium, three-row family vehicle with plug-in efficiency, provided that the vehicle has a documented service history and all relevant software recalls have been addressed by a certified Volvo technician.