Did you know that in 2023, the Tesla Model Y and the Tesla Model 3 were the two best-selling electric cars in Canada (Model Y: 29,582 units; Model 3: 29,122 units)? When it comes to electric vehicles, there's no denying that Tesla has made a name for itself in Quebec. However, not everyone who wants to drive an electric car wants to do so with the American brand. With this in mind, Volvo has...

If you are planning to buy a 2023 Volvo XC60, you must have noticed the presence of two powertrains in the Volvo range: the B5 AWD mild hybrid and the B6 AWD mild hybrid.
Indeed, since the year 2022, the Volvo car brand has introduced two new engines (B5 and B6) to its catalog, replacing the T5 and T6 versions. We can also add to this list the B4 engine, which is reserved for the XC40 2023.
But what about the engine to choose? Is there an engine to choose rather than another?
In this article, we explain which powertrain is best for you.
What do the B5 and B6 engines have in common?
First of all, the B5 and B6 engines both benefit from mild hybrid or light hybridisation - that is to say, they both have a 48V battery that allows you to save on fuel consumption or to gain power during acceleration.
Also, both engines come standard with a four-wheel drive system that allows the Volvo XC60 to handle any situation.
Finally, both engines are compatible with Polestar optimization, which not only increases engine performance but also driving pleasure.
What's the difference between the B5 and B6 engines?
On the other hand, buying a Volvo XC60 equipped with the B5 engine does not give you access to the Plus and Ultimate trims.
However, from the Core trim, the vehicle already benefits from all the equipment necessary for the safety and comfort of the occupants: BLIS, panoramic roof, adaptive cruise control, rear parking camera, etc.
B5 or B6: which one to choose according to use?
Finally, the difference between the two engines is mainly on the engine power and torque.
The B5 engine has 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
In the case of the B6 engine, the available power rises to 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
So, if you're looking to use your Volvo XC60 in the city, a B5 engine will meet your expectations in terms of versatility and fuel economy.
Need to tow heavy loads?
Although the B5 and B6 engines can both tow up to 1580 kg, the B6 powertrain with its extra 48 hp will allow you to tow heavy loads with ease, such as overtaking a vehicle or climbing a hill.
Are the B5 and B6 engines 4 wheel drive?
Yes, these two engines are coupled with Volvo's all-wheel drive system, which is ideal for maintaining maximum safety even during difficult periods such as winter in Quebec.
A few final words
Whether you are planning to purchase a Volvo XC60 B5 or B6, Volvo Cars Saint-Léonard has demonstration vehicles for both engines.
To book a test drive, contact one of our sales representatives or complete our online form
Other Articles That May Interest You
Volvo has as many stories to tell as it has technological innovations over the years. One of them - the takeover of the Volvo car division by Ford. From 1999 to 2010, the Swedish brand was owned by the Ford Group via Premier Automotive Group. A collaboration that produced iconic models and enabled both brands to rise through the global market. In this article, we explain in detail the reasons...
Planning to buy a Volvo in 2026 but don't know what the range will look like by then? With electrification on the rise and automotive trends changing, Volvo is adapting its offering to meet drivers' new expectations. In this article, we take a look at the new Volvo 2026 models for sale and the models that will remain in the catalogue. Change in electrification strategy Just when everyone...