Yes, it's the same, exact V8 engine that powers the much larger and heavier XC90 SUV, but with a thousand pounds of weight taken off its narrow little 60-degree shoulders, the transversely mounted 4.4-liter V8 becomes a real performer. To manage that much power, the V8 comes with the proven Volvo Haldex computer-controlled all-wheel-drive system.

The V8 engine installation is certainly the biggest single news item about this car, but there's also a completely new 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine for those customers who don't want or need monster torque. The new six-cylinder, the largest inline-6 Volvo has ever built, is rated at 236 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, great leaps above the old 2.9-liter engine. Unlike the V8, the I6 will be available with front-wheel drive as well as all-wheel drive.