Volvo XC40 explained in detail

-    Volvo launched the entry-level XC40 SUV in India at Rs 39.9 lakhs

-    It rivals against the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

-    Available in a single, fully-loaded D4 R-Design trim.

Volvo officially launched the all-new XC40 in India for the price of Rs 39.9 lakhs ex-showroom all-India. The XC40 comes as an entry-level crossover in the Volvo’s line-up positioned below the XC60 and XC90. The Swedish carmaker launched the XC40 in a single R-Design trim which is filled to the brim with all the features and equipment the carmaker has on offer.

The styling of the XC40 remains true to the 40.1 Concept. It is based on Volvo’s all-new modular vehicle architecture (CMA) developed with Geely. The XC40 has a slightly boxy design compared to its elder siblings. The Thor’s Hammer headlamp design flanks the compact grille. The special design highlight is the floating D-Pillar. At the rear, the LED tail lights are similar to the XC60 and look nicely integrated into the overall silhouette of the crossover. 

The cabin is borrowed directly from other Volvo models. So you get a nine-inch touchscreen dominating the dashboard with vertical air vents on both sides. Behind the steering wheel is an all-digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster and the centre console has usable cup holders and wireless charging port. Offered in a fully loaded R-Design trim, this car comes with a long features list. The standard offering includes two-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, electric seats with four-way lumbar support, heated front/rear seats, powered tailgate, and a premium Harmon Kardon sound system with navigation and smartphone integration. 

Being a Volvo, the XC40 is high on safety as well. There are driver and passenger airbags along with side airbag and seatbelt reminder for all four seats. Volvo also provides adaptive cruise control, front collision mitigation support, lane assist, park assist with rearview camera, hill start/descent control, and TPMS in the XC40. Braking duties are taken care by 17-inch disc brakes at front and 16-inch discs at the rear. 

Power comes from the D4 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine producing 187bhp and 400Nm. The transmission is an eight-speed unit sending power to all four wheels. The XC40 has a limited top speed of 210kmph. 

The XC40 comes as a direct rival to the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 and BMW X1. For the price of the R-Design trim, one can also consider the top-spec variants of its direct rivals – GLA220d 4MATIC, Q3 35TDI and X1 sDrive20d xLine - in the same segment. Apart from that, entry-level executive sedans like the Jaguar XE Pure, BMW 320d, and Mercedes C220 CDI also make for viable alternatives. For a little extra cash, you can even avail of capable off-roaders like the Land Rover Discovery Sport or the Range Rover Evoque. However, none of these cars matches up to the XC40 in terms of safety features and driver’s aids.