Volvo’s highly-anticipated V40 five-door hatchback has finally made its official debut, online at least, and the latest images confirm that which we already knew,
that Volvo’s latest entry in the compact class is ready to overtake the
competition with a premium look, unique Scandinavian style, and
sharpened features.
Although based on the same platform as the three-door only C30, not a single body panel is shared between the two.
That’s because the V40, despite being originally conceived when Volvo was still owned by Ford, had its design refined under the human-centric “Designed Around You” strategy devised by new owner Geely.
With a new focus on attention to detail, and the addition of high-tech
features not typically found in the compact class, Volvo’s design team
were able to come away with what's arguably one of the best looking
hatchbacks soon to be available.
The engine range spans everything from compact diesels to a
high-performance turbocharged T5 five-cylinder engine rated at 254
horsepower and promising 0-60 mph times of 6.7 seconds. All engine
versions feature start-stop and braking energy regeneration, no matter
whether they are fitted with a manual or automatic gearbox.
And in living up to Volvo’s reputation for stellar safety, the V40
features the latest Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake, a
world-first pedestrian airbag that shoots out from the hood in the event
of an impact, Lane Keeping Assist with haptic auto steering, and a Park
Assist Pilot that makes parallel parking easy. Also included is Volvo’s
City Safety low-speed collision avoidance system, which has been
further developed and it now operates at speeds up to 31 mph.
Sadly, while the V40 will go on sale in Europe shortly after a debut at
the 2012 Geneva Motor Show next week, the vehicle won't be coming to the
U.S. market. In Volvo’s eyes, customers on these shores don’t buy
hatchbacks or station wagons, instead favoring sedans, crossovers and SUVs. That’s a shame, since the V40 looks to be the right blend of style and comfort to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
While we won't get the V40, rumors are that Volvo is working on a crossover variant, to be called the XC40.
Details are scarce, but expect the XC40 to carry similar lines to the
V40 while offering a taller seating position and available
all-wheel-drive.
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