VOLVO is introducing a 2.5-litre petrol engine to its XC90 range.

The new engine is designed for customers who prefer more performance than the 163bhp D5 turbodiesel, but don't need the 272bhp of the range-topping, 2.9-litre petrol T6.

The 2.5T engine is already available in some European countries, and the USA, where it has proved popular and represents nearly 40 per cent of total XC90 sales.

The five-cylinder, light-pressure turbo, 2,521cc engine (already available in Volvo's S60, V70, S80 and XC70 ranges) produces a healthy 210bhp combined with a generous 320Nm of torque available from as low as 1,500rpm, making the XC90 (pictured) great to drive, with a sprint from nought to 62mph possible in 9.5 seconds.

The XC90 2.5T is available to order now, with first deliveries expected soon after production starts in January 2005.

For more information, call Alan Gibson Volvo on 01256 466111, or visit the new showroom at Brunel Road in Houndmills, Basingstoke.