Dynamic V40-Volvo V40 review

Volvo’s latest creation for the Indian market is nothing short of an attractive package that aims to set a tone for crossovers in the country. The V40 is a very dynamic looking machine especially due to its exterior design that bears a whole lot of curves and straight lines. We therefore took it out for a spin in the national capital to interpret Volvo’s latest offering.

They call it ‘Cross Country’, the V40 is very different from what we have experiencing in the past when it comes to other models like the S60, S80, XC60 and XC90 within the Swedish car maker's portfolio.

To put things into perfective, this one is a cross between premium hatch and an SUV therefore what comes out is a very aggressive and a low slung front end, which is further complemented by its unique rear end design.

Design:

The front fascia therefore features a sharp nose comprising of the traditional Volvo grille with chrome surrounds, stretched head lamps and a pair of day time running LED fog lamps. A sculpted bonnet further puts together an aggressive front end with a combination of black and body coloured bumper. Introduction of a scuff plate towards the lower end further provides it a rugged sort of an appearance. Since the front is all about sharp lines, the sides can be perceived as free flowing with the odd sharp line running right across with the rear three quarter providing a curvaceous bulge.

The availability of black finished side view mirrors with indicator inserts, roof rails, body coloured door handles, flared wheel arches and elegant looking alloys are all part of the side profile. The visibility of a decent size scuff plate reiterates the fact that this machine is potent and means serious business. Whereas, the rear is the most attractive part of the vehicle that features a chiselled tail gate putting forward the Swedish manufacturer's design philosophy.

Interior:

If you think that V40’s exteriors are really impressive then hold on a second, its cabin is equally good if not more. It offers a dual tone interior featuring dark brown and beige colour trim. In typical Volvo tradition, the fit and finish is top notch along with good quality plastics on board. However, the most interesting part of the cabin is its instrument cluster, which comes across as very futuristic.

Its oval appearance with silver surrounds catches the eye immediately, and so does the inlay colour which is red not to forget. From left to right, the instrument cluster comprises of a fuel gauge, temperature meter, a circular odometer along with a trip meter, RPM meter and different operating modes such as parking, neutral, reverse and drive. Centre console is the same as in all Volvos, the only difference here is that it bears a copper finish, which helps in adding a premium feel to it. Seating is really comfortable in the front as well as the rear, but what really impressed us the most was the driving position, which feels very sporty.

There is ample of space between both rows with the boot only offering 335 litres of storage facility, which is a bit of let down considering the overall length at 4370mm and width of 1783mm. Some of the safety features on board include elements like Side Impact Protection System, dual front and side airbags, Whiplash Protection System to just name a few.

Engion and Transmission:

Baring looks and interior feel, the heart that beats under the hood is a five cylinder turbo diesel engine with start-stop technology. Better known as D3, this engine has a displacement of 1984cc that provides a maximum power output of 150bhp with 350Nm of torque. Setting specs aside, the sheer brilliance of this diesel unit is when put into use. It keeps one involved at all times, especially during the time of acceleration, wherein a small grunt of the engine sounds like music to the ear.

Drive Dynamics:

It might not be as loud as an outright performance machine but still is worth each and every second while being on road. Its six speed geartronic transmission on board feels a bit lethargic initially, but when the vehicle is in motion then its smooth sailing. Once in sports mode, the V40 goes ballistic with its highly torque oriented engine, which does not fail to satisfy one’s desire for performance. Carrying on, steering input is precise which makes it really simple to handle; throw it at any curve or turn and Volvo V40 manoeuvres its self brilliantly. Currently, majority of our roads are in a pathetic condition but when in Volvo V40, driving through potholes and broken surfaces isn’t really an issue courtesy a well sort after suspension setup.

Verdict:

It’s dynamic, comfortable and performance driven, V40 defies all norms of the current model line up within the Volvo portfolio leave aside the competition. The ‘Cross Country’ image is something that catches one’s imagination perfectly which at a price point of Rs 28.5 lakhs (ex-showroom New Delhi) is not at all a bad choice considering what all it has to offer.