We often hear people want SUVs and crossovers because of the space, but even when those models become more compact, they sell exceptionally well in the Netherlands. Volvo wants to take maximum advantage of this and therefore comes with a new entry-level model of the XC40.
The Volvo model range clearly shows how important SUVs have become. The recently disappeared Volvo V40 was a nice car, which certainly did well in the Netherlands. It was a great offer next to expensive Audi’s A3 and BMW’s 1-series, while the affordable Business Editions also kept people out of a Golf or Focus. The slightly elevated V40 CC was a hit with customers who wanted a higher seat or entry level. But unfortunately, he is gone and nothing came in return! The XC40 is now the smallest and cheapest Volvo. It remains to be seen whether the Swedes will come up with a new hatchback in the compact middle class or whether they like it. It must be high, higher, highest, whether in the Netherlands or in the rest of the world. The demand for compact SUVs is also enormous in the Netherlands. It doesn’t have to be that big here either, judging by the popularity of small Arona’s and Capturs. In addition, it should be noted that this also has to do in part with the tax burden on cars in the Netherlands, but of course we do that to ourselves – with the current demand. The consumption of (and thus the bpm amount on) SUVs is considerably higher than that of comparable cars that are less high. It doesn’t hurt sales, as the popular XC40 also proves. To make it a bit more affordable, Volvo has come up with a new entry-level engine in the form of the XC40 T2. This type has the same 1.5-liter as the T3, but with only 129 hp. That makes it cheaper, although the options list ensures that you never leave the showroom for such an amount. Fortunately, our Business Pro version offers many pleasant things such as IntelliSafe technology with Pilot Assist, as well as many warning systems, LED fog lamps, navigation and more for a small additional charge. In addition, things like climate control, roof rails and 18-inch alloy are standard on every XC40, which is not the case with all premium competitors.
Format
If we look at the interior, you have little to complain about in the XC40. The volume of the trunk of the Volvo is 460 liters, but with the rear seat flat it grows to 1,336 liters. The Swede is also spacious enough in the back. Due to the square shape of the body, especially the headroom is fine. The Volvo cockpit certainly has style. In the XC40, the setup is as we see in all new Volvos: with a fully digital screen in front of you and a large vertical touchscreen in the middle. You sit comfortably high and that makes the XC40 a real SUV. The car is mainly focused on comfort, despite the optional sports suspension, which we would omit if you still want to go for Swedish comfort. The steering is a bit light and distant and the drivetrain also goes for flexibility. Going fast through curves feels unnatural. The machine works well with the engine, which mainly depends on its torque. That 245 Nm is enough to keep up with normal traffic. The limitation is in the power and you only notice that during a sprint, such as an insertion or an overtaking action. You floor the pedal, the gearbox shifts down and… nothing happens at all. There is no reserve to go faster. The good news is that you are very efficient with the available power: you almost always use it. However, the T2 is very slow if you do want a little pace. On holiday with a lot of luggage and people on board, driving uphill can be a difficult task. Moreover, there is a great danger that the turbo always has to blow, unless you are driving at 80 km / h. Then the low fuel consumption disappears like snow in the sun.
Reserve or not
The XC40 has a touchscreen that is one of the better of its kind. It works very quickly and is quite extensive, with nice maps and clear menus. It suits the tech character of the car. The XC40 is aimed at lovers of comfort and modern operating technology. The chassis of the Swede does not move any beacons: we really put the XC60 a step higher. The Volvo is also remarkably heavy at 1,525 kilos. You can feel that when driving, especially with this bike. The extra kilos of the XC40 undoubtedly also play a role in the consumption figures