Is the Volvo T5 a Ward's 10 Best Engines Winner?
2 Answers
The Volvo T5 engine is indeed one of Ward's 10 Best Engines. The B420T2 is the engine model used in the Volvo T5, with a maximum horsepower of 250 HP, a maximum power output of 184 KW, a power peak at 5400-5700 rpm, and a peak torque of 350 N.m. The engine of the Volvo T5 is partially domestically produced in China. Currently, Volvo has three vehicle assembly plants, one engine factory, and one R&D center in China, located in Chengdu, Daqing in Heilongjiang, Taizhou in Zhejiang, Zhangjiakou in Hebei for the engine factory, and a Shanghai R&D center. For daily maintenance of the Volvo T5 engine, the following methods can be employed: Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD to SF grade motor oil based on the additional equipment in the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions; for diesel engines, choose CB to CD grade diesel oil according to mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's specified requirements. Regularly change the oil and oil filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will deteriorate over time during use. After a certain mileage, its performance degrades, leading to various engine issues. To prevent malfunctions, change the oil regularly according to usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. When oil passes through the fine pores of the filter, solid particles and viscous substances in the oil accumulate in the filter. If the filter becomes clogged and oil cannot pass through, it may rupture the filter or open the safety valve, allowing oil to bypass through the relief valve and carry contaminants back to the lubrication areas, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal contamination. Periodically clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls, mixing with metal particles from component wear to form sludge. In small amounts, it remains suspended in the oil; in large amounts, it precipitates, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Regularly use radiator cleaner to flush the radiator. Removing rust and scale deposits not only ensures the engine operates properly but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.
I used to pay a lot of attention to car engines, especially turbocharged ones like the Volvo T5. The Ward's 10 Best Engines is an annual list of top-performing engines selected by Ward's magazine in the U.S., based on criteria like performance, fuel efficiency, and innovation. The Volvo T5 engine, particularly in the 2015 and 2017 versions of the Drive-E series, did make it onto the Ward's 10 Best list thanks to its smooth power delivery, reliability, and fuel efficiency. I've driven an XC60 with the T5 engine, and the acceleration was impressive—on par with some luxury brands. However, it didn't make the list every year; for example, it was absent in 2018, likely due to fierce competition. Overall, the T5 was recognized as a top-tier engine in certain years and is definitely trustworthy. If you're considering buying one, just check the specific year to confirm.
