The Volvo Group is a Swedish multinational manufacturing company headquartered in Gothenburg. They produce, distribute and sell trucks, buses, and construction equipment. They are also one of largest manufacturer’s of heavy-duty trucks. They also are on the prowl to bring in younger, premium minded buyers to their market with their class and tech in their crossover vehicles – such as with the Volvo XC40.
This crossover is stylish, yet practical. The design is what you’d come to expect from Volvo – upscale without dismissing the need for comfort and space.
Under the hood
All XC40 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder making either 184 or 248 horsepower (T4’s and T5’s). The more powerful T5, which receives all-wheel drive as standard can go from zero to 60 mph in about 6.3 seconds. ‘Nuff Said.
Fuel economy
With a good turbo sized engine like mentioned above, you don’t except to get the greatest gas mileage. However, the fuel economy is about average to other comparable cross overs, which is good enough in my book.
Interior space
The boxy upright design allows for an airy feel (which is good for travel). High end materials, and comfortable seats. Passenger space in the front and rear are spacious, especially compared to their counterparts, even though the rear backseat is positioned pretty much upright.
Cargo space and storage
As far as cargo volume goes, the XC40 appears to be average, however Volvo did give a lot of attention to detail with some pretty cool cargo features that makes it a mark above to me. They have giant door pockets, numerous bins and cubbies throughout the cabin and cargo area and you can stash a whole lot of small items (which is great if you have kids). The features such as hooks that flip out from the glovebox to hold bags, a divider for the cargo area, and removable garbage bin with a hinged door in the center console is a big plus in my book.
Audio and infotainment
The XC40’s dashboard is not centered, but positioned slightly left for an easier reach for the driver. It uses the Volvo’s Sensus Connect infotainment system and it’s projected on a 9 inch touchscreen. It’s a pretty well laid out system compared to similar models.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and onboard Wi-Fi are a apart of the system, and it also allows real-time weather updates, along with a smartphone app that allows you to remote access. It even allows Amazon to deliver packages directly to your car when it’s parked (WHERE DO I SIGN UP??!) Navigation with traffic monitoring is optional on some models, and BONUS – it has a wireless charging pad for smartphones on the center console (for the premium package).
Safety
Volvo offers plenty of active-safety kit as standard, including automated emergency braking; more advanced features including a semi-autonomous driving mode are optional.
Warranty and maintenance
Volvo’s warranty is about the same as others in the market, nothing special there, however the three years of complimentary maintenance is definitely a great perk!
