Volvo had announced that it would officially unveil the XC40 SUV on September 21, 2017. However, the Swedish manufacturer’s Hungarian arm has ‘accidentally’ released a video that shows the SUV in its entirety.
In terms of exterior design, the XC40 bears a close resemblance to the Volvo 40.1 concept that was showcased last year. The most obvious changes are the regular outside rear-view mirrors and the traditional door handles.
On this inside, the design and tech, including the large touchscreen infotainment system have been borrowed from its larger siblings, the XC60 and the XC90. However, the appearance is a bit more casual, meant to entice younger buyers.
The first car to be based on Volvo’s new Compact Modular Architecture, the XC40’s engine options aren't confirmed yet. The carmaker, however, has said that the new 1.5-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol motor will feature along with four-cylinder Drive-E engines powering faster models. A plug-in hybrid variant that pairs the three-cylinder motor to an electric motor and sends power via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission will be offered at a later date.
Volvo has not announced plans to bring the SUV to India, though if it arrives, it will lock horns with premium crossovers like the Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1.
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
Lenny D'sa
Dipan Sur
Glenn Noronha
