Revised powertrain options make Volvo’s XC40 an even better proposition

Superlatives galore have been heaped on the entire Volvo range but, reports Iain Robertson, one of the Sino-Swedish brand’s most in-demand new models is the XC40 compact SUV and its latest versions make it even more desirable.

Volvo’s XC40 is already a proven success story, with soaring popularity helping to deliver unprecedented sales growth since it arrived in showrooms in February 2018. XC40’s appeal is being enriched with brand-new powertrain revisions, features and even more generous specification levels.

Where powertrains are concerned, the highly efficient 1.5-litre three-cylinder T3 petrol engine, introduced to the range last summer, benefits from an increase in power, from 156 to 163bhp. It is now available for the first time with the option of an eight-speed automatic gearbox, in addition to the existing six-speed manual, which can cover the 0-60mph dash in 9.0s (9.3s auto). Fuel efficiency has also improved, with WLTP combined fuel economy of between 37.2 and 41.5mpg for the T3 manual, against figures of 36.7 and 39.8mpg for the previous version. The manual car’s CO2 emissions are also lower, ranging from 142 to 146g/km, compared with 144 and 148g/km previously.


The 2.0-litre four-cylinder T4 petrol engine is now available with two-wheel drive, to complement the current all-wheel drive version. The front-driven T4 takes 8.1s for its 0-60mph blast, while its fuel economy is up to 36.7mpg. The T4 FWD is priced £1,400 below the equivalent AWD version. In line with the R-Design grade’s sportier profile, all versions with an auto-box now come as standard with steering-wheel paddle shifts.


Equipment changes include the addition of auto-folding door mirrors, a 12v power outlet in the luggage compartment, a locking glovebox and a load protection net. These features build on the generous standard specification, highlights of which include the Sensus nine-inch touchscreen, voice-activated controls, automatic LED headlights, sat-nav, climate control, rear parking sensors, 18.0-inch diameter alloy wheels and the Volvo ‘On Call’ connected services. For added cold weather comfort there is a new Winter Plus pack that adds a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats to the package.


World renowned for its leadership in vehicle safety, Volvo is introducing an upgraded Blind Spot Information System option, with a new (switchable) Steer Assist function to the XC40 range. This automatically applies corrective steering to return the XC40 to its lane to help avoid the risk of collision with another vehicle in the driver’s blind spot. Three new exterior paint finishes are added: Thunder Grey, Glacier Silver and Pebble Grey.

Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK Managing Director, stated: “The XC40 has been a huge success, since it arrived in UK showrooms early last year, and these new powertrains will only enhance its appeal to customers who want a desirable and distinctive premium compact SUV, which offers class-leading interior usability, connectivity and safety technology.

The updated XC40 is available to order now, with on-the-road pre-discount prices from £28,965. The XC40 range will expand soon with the introduction of a T5 Twin Engine petrol-electric plug-in hybrid variant, UK deliveries of which will start in early 2020. 

MSG Summary

While this is great for Volvo, it is even better for Volvo customers, as the brand continues to break new ground and win more market share than it has ever in the past.

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