The latest batch of Volvo cars has made quite an impact on the Indian market. The new models are more exciting and appealing than before and Volvo wants to carry forward the same in the entry-level luxury SUV segment as well. The XC40 is targeted towards a youthful audience and Volvo has launched the SUV at an introductory price of Rs 39.90 lakh for the R-Design variant. Here are the five key things to keep in mind regarding the new XC40:
Single powertrain
At launch, Volvo has introduced the XC40 with a single powertrain option – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, turbo-diesel (D4) motor mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. 190hp and 400Nm of peak torque are transmitted to all-four wheels. Depending on the response to the model, Volvo may also bring in a petrol engine option at a later date.
One variant on offer
As of now, the XC40 is available in a fully loaded R-Design variant, though the company might introduce a lower variant later on. The equipment list is long and includes 18-inch alloy wheels, active bending LED lights, a virtual instrument cluster, an electric tailgate, semi-automatic parking, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Dual-tone exterior finishes
In a bid to appeal to a younger crowd, the XC40 is offered with three dual-tone exterior options. With a contrasting black roof, there are three body color options to choose from - white, blue and red. Contrasting roofs are quite a popular factory-fitted feature, available now even on smaller SUVs like the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon and Hyundai Creta.
Typically Volvo levels of safety kit
In terms of safety kit, the XC40 gets radar-based active safety features like adaptive cruise control, oncoming lane mitigation, run-off-road mitigation and blind spot information. Other standard features include six airbags, ABS, ESC, traction control, hill ascent and descent control, parking assist and more.
Competitive pricing
Diesel-engine rivals to the XC40 include the Mini Countryman (Rs 37.40 lakh), Mercedes-Benz GLA (Rs 31.72-38.03 lakh), BMW X1 (Rs 34.50-44.50 lakh) and Audi Q3 (Rs 34.23-40.98 lakh). Unlike the Mini Countryman which is a front-wheel-drive car, all the other cars in the segment are equipped with an all-wheel-drive system in at least the top-spec trim. Comparing the prices and the equipment on offer, the Volvo XC40 is quite a well-priced model.
All prices are ex-showroom, India
Rivan RS 
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
