The all-new Volvo XC40 has made its official debut – marking Volvo’s first foray into the increasingly competitive compact crossover segment.
The XC40 rides on the Swedish automaker’s new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), which will underpin all other upcoming cars in its lineup of ’40’ badged cars, including fully electrified vehicles. From launch, it will be offered with Volvo’s T5 Drive-E powertrain, which consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, which are paired with all-wheel drive. Volvo says it will eventually add both a hybridized and fully electric version.
Volvo describes the XC40 as a “bold rendition of Scandinavian design and functionality.” The front is dominated by the brand’s “Thor’s hammer” daytime running lights, which flank the latest interpretation of the automaker’s grille. The profile is described as strong, structured and youthful, with an available color contrasting roof accentuating the character lines. Large wheels, spacious arches and a respectable 8.3-inch ride height give it a “true SUV feeling,” Volvo says.
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Volvo conducted extensive global research on how CUVs are typically used and designed the XC40’s interior with usefulness in mind. The automaker boasts of large door pockets, convenient bag hooks and a customizable cargo area for all of your storage needs. The dash is dominated by a standard 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is joined by tech-friendly features such as a dedicated cell phone storage space and wireless phone charging.
A range of safety features are available including Pilot Assist, Run-off Road protection and mitigation, Cross Traffic alert with brake support and a 360° camera for maneuvering the vehicle into tight spaces. City Safety is also standard, which can automatically detect pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles and large animals and apply an emergency autobrake if needed. With the XC40, Volvo is also rolling out a new program called “Care by Volvo”, which charges users a monthly fee for Volvo to take care of the maintenance, insurance, wear and tear and protection services for the vehicle. It also allows them to upgrade to a new car as early as 12 months after the initial purchase.
Production of the 2018 Volvo XC40 will start at Volvo’s plant in Ghent, Belgium in November, but the order books are open immediately. We’ll learn more about the XC40, along with Care by Volvo, at the Los Angeles Auto Show in late November.
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