THIS IS THE all-new Volvo XC40 compact luxury SUV and it is the first time that the Swedish manufacturer has launched a model in this competitive segment.
It is also the first model to be built on Volvo’s new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), which it also shares with its parent company Geely. All future 40 Series models will also be based on this architecture.
The XC40 is a rival for the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque.
Aim primarily at urban drivers, the XC40 cuts a dashing shape and has a very modern design but it still recognisable as the smaller sibling to the XC60 and XC90 thanks to that signature Volvo upright grille, ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights and tall tail lights.
When viewed side on, however, the XC40 has some sharp distinguishing features including a window line that kicks up along the large C-pillar and a deep groove along the doors.
There are four trim levels available in Ireland and depending on the trim level the exterior will differ.
Entry-level Momentum models have LED headlights and 18-inch alloys with an optional contrast-colour white roof and door mirrors and lovely white and black alloys.
Momentum Pro models have active bending headlights with adaptive shadow technology that blocks out part of the headlights’ beam to avoid dazzling vehicles in front.
The sporty R-Design models have an uprated sports suspension, gloss black front grille and front and rear lower bumpers, a black roof and door mirrors, dual integrated exhaust pipes and 18-inch diamond cut/matt black alloys.
R-Design Pro models get active bending headlights and 20-inch alloys.
The cabin has been designed to keep everything neat and tidy and to reduce clutter. To achieve this Volvo has tricked out the interior with features like hooks to hang bags to keep them off the floor, there’s a small pop-up rubbish bin and the door bins have been made large enough to take laptops and water bottles. There’s also an inductive charging area for mobile phones.
The XC40 comes with a personalisable 12.3-inch TFT driver’s information display and a large 9-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment display.
Volvo is renowned for building safe cars and the XC40 comes as standard with Oncoming Lane Mitigation, which if the car moves across its lane in front of oncoming traffic the system will guide the car back into its lane. It also comes with the City Safety automatic emergency braking system that detects pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. The Volvo On Call app and emergency assistance package also come as standard.
Offered as an option are Volvo’s semi-autonomous driving systems Park Assist Pilot, with automatic parallel and perpendicular parking, and Pilot Assist, which controls the steering, throttle and braking up to 128km/h (80mph) and keeps the car within lane markings.
The new XC40 will be available in Ireland from January 2018 and the launch model will be the 2.0-litre four-cylinder 190hp D4 diesel with all-wheel drive and automatic gearbox and prices will start from €47,450.
Later in the year, more powertrains will join the lineup including a cheaper 150hp D3 diesel with either front- or all-wheel drive and manual or automatic transmission.
There will be a Twin Engine plug-in hybrid model and a fully electric model as well as a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol model. The XC40 will be the first model to get this new Volvo three-pot.
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