Volvo has homologated its entire model range under the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).

All Volvo petrol, diesel and hybrid models now comply with the more stringent Euro 6d-temp standard for tailpipe emissions.

From September 1 2018, only WLTP-homologated cars can be sold in Europe.

WLTP is a laboratory test, and replaces the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) that can trace its roots back to the 1980s. Both tests enable customers to make comparisons between different vehicles, but WLTP uses a driving cycle that is more reflective of on-road driving.

The aim of the new WLTP cycle is to ensure published fuel economy and emissions offer a more realistic reflection of real-world driving, helping customers to judge better the fuel and emission efficiency of their car.

The revised emissions figures result in an increase for average CO2 emissions across the Volvo range.

S90 D4 Momentum models now officially emit 123g/km of CO2, rising from 116g/km under NEDC.

Plug-in hybrid models are also effected. The XC60 T8 now emits 55g/km, jumping from 49g/km.

V40 D2 models, a popular fleet choice, now emit 122g/km – increasing from 94g/km.

Combined with price rises (£1,250 for S90 Momentum) company car drivers opting for the new models can expect an increase in Benefit-in-kind (BiK) tax.

All the updated figures are available in our fuel economy and emissions database, or compare the BiK increase with our company car tax calculator.

The WLTP test is backed up by the new Real Driving Emissions (RDE) test – an on-road test of up to 120 minutes, which evaluates a car under a variety of driving conditions and speeds. A car can only be sold once it passes both WLTP and RDE tests.

The figures Volvo publishes for its models are achieved through the WLTP cycle, then correlated back to an NEDC equivalent for comparison purposes.

“Volvo welcomed the new WLTP testing methods when they were first announced, as greater transparency in areas such as fuel consumption and emissions helps customers make better informed buying decisions,” explained Jon Wakefield, Volvo Car UK’s Managing Director.

“We are pleased that we are the first to sell a complete range of cars that meets the new testing standards,” he added.

Volvo will be at CCIA 2018