Volvo prices new XC90 V-8

2006 Volvo XC90 V-8 (photo: Volvo Cars)

For this reason, extremely compact external dimensions were essential for the new engine. This led to developing an engine with just 60 degrees between the two banks of cylinders as opposed to the more conventional 90 degrees, with a counter-rotating balance shaft to help counteract inherent imbalance of a 60-degree 'V' configuration.

The new engine is the cleanest gasoline-powered V8 on the market today, Volvo says. It meets the American ULEV II (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle, stage II) requirements and the forthcoming Euro 5 requirements for Europe.

The power from the V-8 passes through an entirely new six-speed automatic transmission designed to handle the high torque. Sixth gear is a "pure overdrive ratio to ensure quiet cruising and low fuel consumption."

Getting back to the grunt part of the equation, six-speed is a manumatic, which allows the driver to pick the gear to suit the situation.
photo:Volvo Canada