Volvo’s relentless charge into electrification adds XC40 to range

With Sweden’s determination for clean air and efficiency, it is inevitable that Chinese-owned Volvo will seek to satisfy those demands and, states Iain Robertson, the latest addition to its line-up of plug-in models is the popular XC40.

Not known for putting a cat among the pigeons, while Volvo’s safety legacy is secure, its environmental stance is already well-established. Working to what it calls ‘Twin Engine’ technology, with deference to the hybridised petrol-electric drivetrain, Volvo’s compact SUV contender, the XC40, is the final piece of its concise plug-in jigsaw.



Marrying Volvo’s efficient 1.5-litre three-cylinder 180bhp turbo-petrol engine to an 82bhp electric motor, completes a hybrid system that delivers 262bhp, thus creating the most potent, front-wheel drive powertrain in the XC40 range (as a first for Volvo’s compact platform; 4WD is reserved for the larger models). The power is balanced with strong environmental credentials, as preliminary WLTP figures for CO2 emissions are from just 38g/km (where 19.0-inch diameter wheels are specified), while the official combined fuel consumption is expected to be up to 141.1mpg (figures to be confirmed).



The compact, energy-dense lithium-ion battery pack has a capacity of 10.7kWh, which enables electric-only driving of up to 28.6 miles, dependent on driving conditions and battery charge levels. XC40 T5 Twin Engine models come with a recharging outlet on the nearside front wing. A 4.5m cable, with a three-pin plug, is provided as standard, while a type-2/mode-3 fast-charge cable is available as an optional extra for £50. Charging via the fast-charge cable can revive the car’s high-voltage battery completely in as little as 2.5 hours. Fully charging using the three-pin plug cable takes between 3.5 and 6 hours.



The flexible power unit drives through an all-new seven-speed, twin-clutch, automated-manual gearbox for added efficiency. It can complete the 0-60mph benchmark in a cool 7.0s, before topping out at a maximum of 127mph. The new model is exempt from road tax and represents a 16% Benefit-in-Kind tax rate for business use. 



If you want to indulge in the new model, it is available in higher-specification R-Design, R-Design Pro, Inscription and Inscription Pro trim levels. The on-the-road prices are from £40,905 for the R-Design, rising to £43,205 for Inscription Pro, although we have preferential, discounted rates with Volvo for our customers. Volvo retailers are taking customer orders now, with the first cars scheduled for UK delivery in February 2020.



When the XC40 arrived, it illuminated the up-market end of the compact crossover scene. Delightful, high-quality trim detailing and a spacious, comfortable and easy-to-access cabin were expectations fulfilled by Volvo. The handsome exterior, complete with its ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running-lights signature that reflected Volvo’s current styling ethos attracted potential customers by the score. The new plug-in hybrid version is sure to accelerate Volvo’s reputation, especially in areas where congestion and clean air zones are fast becoming an urban priority. The new T5 Twin Engine joins two diesel and three petrol powertrains in the XC40 range, with an all-electric model joining the line-up in 2020 to provide a really comprehensive choice.

FCD Summary

Volvo is regarded as one of the best luxury car brands on sale today, its effortless style and presence being supported by its strong repute in many key areas.

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