Volvo's Super 6: Hot new powerplant for Ford, Jaguar models too
 

Ford’s Swedish partner Volvo is developing an advanced inline six-cylinder engine, known internally as SI6, as the powerplant for the next-generation S80 due in June 2006.

Conceived for both transverse and longitudinal applications, the four-valves-per-cylinder gasoline engine features an aluminum cylinder block and a total weight of about 400 pounds. With a compact chain-driven camshaft system, the engine is actually 1.0 millimeter shorter than Volvo’s widely offered five-cylinder—a feature that makes it suitable for a whole range of Ford models, according to AutoWeek sources.

Three different versions of the SI6 are planned: a base naturally aspirated 3.2-liter and a pair of performance-oriented turbo*charged 3.0-liter units. The former receives variable cam timing on the inlet valves, with the latter two adopting a more advanced system operating both the inlet and exhaust valves. The performance versions also receive a Garrett turbocharger with variable vane geometry.

In 3.2-liter guise the new six-cylinder produces 238 hp at 6000 rpm along with 236 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm, an increase of 42 hp and 26 lb-ft over Volvo’s current 2.9-liter five-cylinder engine. The light-pressure turbocharged unit delivers 285 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the top-of-the-line high-pressure turbo engine pumps out 350 hp and 332 lb-ft.

Beyond the S80, Ford is mum on plans for the SI6 engines. It’s likely the hottest ones will appear in future Focus RS models in Europe, Jaguar’s sport-tuned R versions and Volvo’s R performance cars.

Well, considering that the T6 model is gone after this year(2.9L Twin Turbo I-6, 267 hp or around there) which has seen duty in the S80 and XC90, this new engine will be a nice replacement. I always had nothing but praise for the I6 in the S80. It was a great engine and very very smooth with plenty of torque. However, being matted to a FWD platform and only a troublesome 4-speed tranny, the total package was that great.

This new engine sounds awsome, and I'm happy another company besides BMW are still producing striaght 6's. It will more than likely be mated to the new 6-speed automatic from the V8 XC90(which is another beast and a overlooked and great ride).