Earlier in the week we reported on Volvo’s changes to the next generation of their XC90 SUV. It seems the shrinking engine size planned for the big SUV isn’t the only contraction in the XC range, because instead of introducing the ‘Volvo XC40′, the Swedish brand has introduced the Volvo V40 ‘Cross Country’.
The Volvo V40 Cross Country is essentially a jacked-up version of the V40 premium hatchback, to the tune of 40 mm over the standard model. Standout features include: unique alloy wheels (also available in 19-inch); a dark, contrasting front bumper with honeycomb mesh grille and vertical daytime running lights; sculpted side sills, together with front and rear skid plates with contrasting silver inserts; and silver coloured roof rails.
The interior remains largely unchanged from the V40 range, with the only exceptions being a choice of vibrant colours for the upholstery and center console trim.
Ensuring the V40 Cross Country has the ability to explore ‘off the beaten track’ roads, Volvo has equipped the car with the all-wheel-drive system from the flagship V40 T5. The Cross Country can also be had with the same 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 187 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The Cross Country T5 uses a 6-speed automatic gearbox, which allows the car to complete the 0 – 100 km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds and, Volvo claims, record an average fuel consumption of 7.8 L/100km; although having sampled this engine in the C30 T5 R-Design we have to be skeptical of this economy claim.
Other engine choices for the front-wheel drive Cross Country models include a 2.0-litre, 157 kW petrol engine and 132 kW, 1.6-litre petrol unit. Diesel engines include the 130 kW, five-cylinder, 2.0-litre D4 and a 110 kW 2.0-litre D3. Both are available with six-speed auto and manual transmissions. The most frugal model will be the 84 kW, 1.6-litre D2, which will also feature engine stop/start technology and offer fuel consumption of just 3.8 L/100km.
We can look forward to seeing the V40 Cross Country on our roads around February 2013. Volvo South Africa say the local line-up will consist of “a variety of engine derivatives and specification levels”, while pricing will be released closer to the time.
