VOLVO’s Small Luxury SUV XC40 the New Kid on the Block
Written by Marco Carvajal
Photographs by Marco Carvajal
With the new 2019 XC40, the Swedish brand Volvo continues producing great quality cars at a lower price that more of us can afford, providing more value and being able to reach a wider market of car drivers.
The new Volvo XC40 was named the 2018 European Car of the Year ahead of the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland in March of 2018. It was the first win of this prestigious award for Volvo Cars.
The small luxury SUV XC 40 comes from Sweden to America as work of art, full of great innovations and safety features.
2019 Volvo XC405Seats T5 All-Wheel-DriveTransmission 8-speed Geartronic™ Automatic with Start/Stop & Adaptive Shift Engine 2.0 L. In-line 4-Cylinder Turbocharged EngineHorsepower 248 hp 5500 rpmTorque 258 lb-ft 4800 rpm Fuel Tank 14.2 gal |
Introduction
The new small SUV, Volvo’s XC40 is precious, beautiful, compact but with enough storage and space, and as expected from Volvo, it is ultra safe. The XC40 is the younger and smaller brother of the XC60 and XC90.
The XC40 is a small SUV, not an CUV, in general the difference between an SUV and a CUV, is that a Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) is based on a car’s platform, while an Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) uses the chassis of a truck. The result is that crossovers use “unibody” architecture, meaning the body and frame are one piece, while SUVs use a “body on frame” design.
This small crossover was built on a completely new platform, the new compact modular vehicle architecture (CMA), used as a base for all upcoming 40 series Volvo cars. The XC40 is the first Volvo model to use this new compact modular vehicle architecture that was developed by Volvo together with Chinese car manufacturer Geely, the mother company that owns Volvo.
Volvo developers have installed 9 airbags inside the cabin and even one additional exterior airbag for the pedestrian. The XC40 is stylish, following the design of the line of Volvo crossovers, clear lines, LED headlamps thor and more to produce a very appealing small SUV.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 crossover is the most compact Volvo SUV, with a length of about 174.2 inches, it follows the line of Volvo SUVs, Volvo XC60 (middle size SUV) and XC90 (full size SUV). This Swedish SUV is produced in Belgium, Europe. The XC40 is available as T5 all-wheel drive, or T4 front wheel drive version. The beautiful stylish exterior is available with a wide range of exterior colors and color-contrast roof with up to 17 combinations from different looks and colors. Buyers have the option to have the roof in one color and the body in another color, something that gives the XC40 a beautiful retro look that makes it very original and unique.
The XC40 has a strong, structured image with youthful expression. Volvo’s signature Thor’s hammer daytime running lights provides a great look for the XC40’s front grill. Large wheels, wheel arches and an 8.3” ride to complete a strong and beautiful look on the design of this small SUV. This small SUV is a beautiful car to own and to enjoy with family and friends, it is a compact SUV, but it is very big compared to a regular sedan, it is a very nice compromise between a city and country car.
There are 3 different trims of the 2019 Volvo XC40:
- Momentum
- R-Design
- Inscription
The R-Design the one I am test driving has a sporty design and more features like:
- 19″ 5-Double Spoke Black Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels
- Sensus Navigation Pro (not std. for Momentum Care by Volvo)
- 12.3″ Digital Driver Display
- Keyless Entry w/ Hands-free Power Tailgate Opening
The Momentum is the base model and comes with 18″ 5-Spoke Silver Alloy Wheels, 12.3″ Digital Driver Display, Power Operated Tailgate, Smartphone Integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto)
The Inscription is a more luxurious level. The Inscription unique exterior styling details include skidplates, side window and grill mesh chrome and model-specific car colors. On the inside the Inscription adds a newly designed crystal gear knob and the attractive Driftwood deco, which Volvo first introduced in its award-winning XC60 mid-size SUV.
One of the details that make this SUV very unique is that the XC40 has lot of storage space everywhere, and we are talking about a lot….Volvo was able to use every space of the car to create several storage compartments. For example it comes with a small storage bin for trash in the front, there are several small compartments for saving things like keys, wallet, phone, etc. Volvo conducted extensive global research and discovered that proper storage is essential for an SUV. Smart daily-use features such as large door pockets, integrated bag hooks and a customizable cargo area help organize the driver’s life.
The XC40 includes optional storage and organizing compartments for the trunk that will make your life easier. The front doors have large space for storage in the sides as the sound speakers that usually use a lot of space in the front doors were moved to a different location, a unique air-ventilated woofer located behind the dashboard allows for more storage in the door panels without sacrificing stereo sound in the cabin, providing larger space for storage in both doors and more space for the driver and copilot.
Wireless QI mobile phone charging and Bluetooth connectivity with the standard 9” Sensus Connect touchscreen will reduce charging wire and connectors in the front. A dedicated cell phone storage space frees up cup holders and other areas commonly used by customers to store their phone. The 2019 Volvo XC40 is the first Volvo car with a car sharing feature, thanks to the Volvo digital key technology, XC40 owners can simply share their car with family members or friends without passing a physical key, innovation keeps moving forward.
Why Should I buy a XC40?
Own a premium European compact SUV for around $33,000. Great pricing for one of the safest Scandinavian European cars in the world. As a new pricing alternative Volvo is innovating by offering an all-inclusive, no hassle subscription system called Care by Volvo with pricing from $600 per month, simplifying car ownership.
Beautiful expressive design, tons of storage space and intelligent technology, The 2019 Volvo XC40 has several innovative solutions like a storehouse, making daily life easier. You can place laptops and bags in the huge pockets on the doors in addition to several small compartments everywhere. Stylish features like clear lines, LED headlamps Thor and much more have come together to produce a very appealing small SUV that could easily become a bestseller in the U.S.
We love innovations and new technology, the XC40 is full of new features, safety features, smarter storage and more efficient use of the space, it was built on a completely new platform, the new compact modular vehicle architecture (CMA), which will be a base for all upcoming cars in the 40 series. The XC40 is the first Volvo model to use this new compact modular vehicle architecture, again bringing more value and appeal to this luxury small SUV.
XC40 Prices & Versions
At the present time there are 3 models available for the XC40, the Momentum and R-Design and the Inscription, with a price range from $33,700 for the Momentum, $36,200 for the R-Design, and $38,895 for the Inscription.
Who will imagine that you could buy a Volvo SUV with just $33,00? In the past that was a dream for Volvo lovers, but thanks to the company initiative to mass produce a smaller SUV now the dream becomes true.
| Model | Approximate Price |
| 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD R-Design | Starting at $37,700 |
Care by Volvo
There is a new innovative purchase/subscription system available, Care by Volvo.
You can purchase the XC40, or Volvo has started a new all-inclusive subscription program called Care by Volvo, similar to leasing but with no negotiation and with no long term commitment or compromise. Subscribing to the XC40 will provide you with amenities such as insurance, maintenance, road hazard protection and normal wear-and-tear all rolled into one flat-rate monthly payment. Subscribers will enjoy a simple ownership experience.
| Model | Approximate Price |
| Care by Volvo 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD R-Design | Starting at $700 x month |
The new innovative subscription system, allow buyers to own a volvo in a different and more flexible way than leasing. Also it includes items that are usually not included in a lease, like insurance.
XC40 Care by Volvo Subscription will provide you with amenities such as insurance, maintenance, road hazard protection and normal wear-and-tear
XC40 R-Design Care by Volvo includes:
Packages: Premium, Vision, Advanced, Heated Front Seats/Heated Steering Wheel. Options: Panoramic Roof, Harman Kardon Premium Sound, 20″ 5-Double Spoke Matte Black Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels.
- LED Active Bending Lights (not std. for Momentum Care by Volvo)
- Sensus Navigation Pro (not std. for Momentum Care by Volvo)
- 12.3″ Digital Driver Display
- Keyless Entry w/ Hands-free Power Tailgate Opening
Exterior of the XC40
This SUV received brand headlights, a well-developed radiator grille and a structured profile, which along with 17 combinations of colors for the body and roof should make the XC40 attractive to young buyers who are looking for both practicality and style.
A top branded spoiler, which gives the body power and aggressiveness. The spoiler over the trunk plays some functions: first, it affects on the braking positively, and secondly, balances the speed mode. Complement the stylish image of the novelty package R-Design and an extensive selection of 17-18 inch alloy wheels. If desired, you can even order larger wheels 19, 20 and 21 inch.
Exterior Features
| Model | R-Design |
| 19″ 5-Double Spoke Black Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels (911) (R11C) | Standard |
| 20″ 5-Double Spoke Matte Black Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels (920) (R135) | $800 |
| Black Contrast Roof | Standard |
| Black Gloss Side Window Trim | Standard |
| Dark Tinted Rear Windows | Standard |
| Dual integrated tail pipes, high-gloss black skid plate | Standard |
| Headlight High Pressure Cleaning | Included in package |
| Heated Windshield Washer Nozzles | Included in package |
| Panoramic Roof | $1,200 |
| Power retractable door mirrors | Included in package |
| R-Design Front Grille | Standard |
Interior of the XC40
The interior of the new Swedish crossover Volvo XC40 resembles the interior of the Volvo XC60 model, but with several original details. Attention should be paid to decorative inserts in front of the passenger on the front panel and door cards, large side deflectors of the vertical configuration, in addition a platform for wireless charging of the smartphone. On the front panel of the crossover there are several compartments for small things, while the pockets in the doors became roomier, because the Swedes transferred the speakers of the audio system from the doors to the front center.
The size of the wheelbase acceptable, as for a compact crossover, competent layout of the cabin and installed high rear seat allow you to fit comfortably, with a stock for the feet, in both the first and second row.
The useful volume of the luggage compartment with availability to fold rear sofa and loading to the level of the side windows. The Interior includes high-quality materials and a large diversity of choice for color solutions.
Interior Features
| Model | R-Design |
| R-Design Steering Wheel | Standard |
| R-Design Gearshift Kno | Standard |
| Cutting Edge Aluminum Inlays | Standard |
| 2-Zone Climate Control + CleanZone + Cooled Glove Box | Standard |
| Charcoal Headliner | Standard |
| CleanZone | Standard |
| Electric Folding Rear Headrests (Outer Positions) | Included in package |
| Folding Second Row Rear Seat | Included in package |
| Harman Kardon Premium Sound | $800 |
| Heated Front Seats | Included in package |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Included in package |
| High Performance Audio System | Standard |
| Interior High Level Illumination | Standard |
| Lava Floor Carpet, Tunnel Console & Door Panels (R-Design) | $100 |
| Mechanical Driver & Passenger Seat Extensions | Included in package |
| Power Driver Seat w/Memory | Standard |
| Power Front Passenger Seat | Standard |
| Power Lumbar Support | Standard |
| R-Design Charcoal Headliner | Standard |
| R-Design Sill Plates | Standard |
| R-Design Styling | Standard |
| Rear Center Armrest w/Cupholders | Standard |
| SiriusXM Satellite Radio* | Standard |
| Sport Pedals | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Controls | Standard |
| Storage Box With Lid Under Driver Seat Cushion | Included in package |
Safety Features Included on the XC40
Volvo XC40 safety features include a 360-degree camera, a semi-autonomous Pro Pilot Assist, City Safety, Run-off Road and Cross Traffic Alert. This equipment makes the XC40 “one of the best small premium crossovers on the market,” according to Volvo. The City Safety System, which is standard on the car, is your personal co-driver, who cares about safety. This system recognizes other cars, pedestrians, cyclists and large animals on the road, reporting a collision threat. If you do not respond in time, the system will automatically engage the brakes to avoid collision or reduce its consequences.
Pedestrian airbag….The airbag for pedestrians contributes in certain frontal collisions to alleviating the collision of the pedestrian with the car. It is fitted under the bonnet near the windscreen. In the event of certain frontal collisions with a pedestrian, the sensors in the front bumper react and the airbag inflates if required, based on the force of the impact. The sensors are active at a speed of approx. 20-50 km/h and an ambient temperature between -20 and +70°C. The sensors are designed to detect a collision with an object that has similar properties to those of the human leg.
Standard Safety Features Included on the XC40
- Airbags, Driver/Front Passenger
- Automatic Braking After Collision
- Brake Pedal Release
- City Safety Collision Avoidance Technology
- Daytime Running Lights with Daylight Sensor
- Door Handle Illumination
- Driver Alert Control
- Emergency Brake Light
- Energy-absorbing Interior
- Head Restraints
- Hill Descent Control
- Hill Start Assist
- Inflatable Curtain
- Lane Keeping Aid
- LED Headlights with Thor’s Hammer Daytime Running Lights & Active High Beam
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation
- Rear Collision Warning
- Reinforced Passenger Compartment
- Road Sign Information
- Run Off Road Mitigation
- Safety Belts with Pre-tensioners and Load Limiters
- Side Impact Airbags for Driver and Front Passenger
- Side Impact Protection System (SIPS)
- Tempa Spare Wheel w/Jack Kit
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Volvo On Call with Car Sharing
- Welcome and Home Safe Light
- WHIPS™ Whiplash Protection System
- Laminated Side Windows (not available for Momentum)
Optional Safety Features
- Pilot Assist – Semi Autonomous Drive System w/Adaptive Cruise Control
- Power Child Locks
- LED Front Fog Lights with Cornering Function
- HomeLink™ + Compass In Inner Rear View Mirror
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) and Cross Traffic Alert
- Active Bending Lights
About Volvo
Volvo Car USA, LLC, is a subsidiary of Volvo Car Group of Gothenburg, Sweden. VCUSA provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States. Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars) is owned by Zhejiang Geely Holding (Geely Holding) of China. Volvo gained a reputation as a manufacturer of expensive, prestigious, reliable and safe cars. The company’s role in the development and implementation of modern security systems is widely known, for which the company has repeatedly won international prizes, for several car experts it is considered the safest car in the world.
Volvo was part of the Swedish Volvo group until 1999, at that time the company was bought by Ford Motor Company of the USA. Since 2010, Volvo Cars is owned by Zhejiang Geely Holding (Geely Holding) of China. Even if Volvo is owned by a Chinese company, it still keeps its Swedish culture and Scandinavian style. Today, Volvo Cars is one of the most well-known and respected car brands and is heralding an all-electric future. Volvo is a truly global organization with Scandinavian roots and manufacturing in Sweden, Belgium and China, with plans to open manufacturing plants in the United States in the near future.
Safety features like 9 airbags inside the cabin, and even an additional exterior airbag for the pedestrian make the XC40 one of the safest SUVs in the market.
