They were once considered as a brand bought only by the living dead. But as Volvo transformed their stale image with a design led revolution (over the last 5 years) the engineering aspect remained living but dead. Volvo’s petrol and diesel engines are the least efficient in the automotive business. Or rather they were, still maybe are. But those who buy into the Volvo ecosystem do so for the safety. Or we are led to believe all Volvos are eminently safe vehicles because the well-crafted marketing told us so.

Anyway, finally, at last, well I never… Volvo has introduced mild-hybrid technology into the entire XC60 range of diesel and petrol engines. Mild-hybrid engine technology is a halfway solution between full hybrid but without the excessive costs of a full-fat plugin hybrid. The XC60 range combines a 2.0-litre engine with a 48-volt battery and a KERS kinetic energy recovery system to reduce fuel consumption and improve driveability and response, especially at low speeds.

Volvo says that an integrated starter generator also provides faster, quieter restarting of the engine. Powertrains range from 197 to 405hp, CO₂ emissions start from just 55g/km. And they also make a ridiculous claim of a WLTP 110mpg range. Let’s just say that the L in WLTP stands for Loophole.

It’s about bloody time Volvo, you are a little bit late to the mild-hybrid party despite being the first to send out invitations. Top-tip, Volvo and diesel mild-hybrids make no sense at all considering the company’s focus on sharing and caring for the environment.

If you want a Volvo XC60 go for the petrol versions, UK prices for the XC60 start from £40,460.