Everybody likes a change. Whether it is food, climate, holiday destinations, or many such variables, change is necessary. Cars play a very important role in this changing cycle. Well not earlier, but now with a range of so many vehicles from around the globe, they have become an integral part of life. Volvo is a brand which got less attention from Indian customers, which is unfair. In the sea of the usual German and Japanese brands, Volvo adds exquisite Swedish essence to the buffet. The Volvo V40 Cross Country has entered the Indian market as a bold statement urging people to try new flavours.
EXTERIOR
Styling is one of the strongest points of V40. The 5-door hatch looks absolutely beautiful from any angle you ogle at it. The smooth curves flow all around the entire body. The honeycomb grille at the front and the vertical fog lamps give a sporty and distinct look to this Volvo. The rear bumper with built-in plastic skid plate and the sill extensions give it a rugged look. Another likable detail is the use of gloss rather than chrome, thus lending elegance and class to the Cross Country. Then there are the roof rails which add a bit more height to the car and further enhance its crossover image.
INTERIOR
Step inside and you feel that the quality and the fit and finish are at par with more expensive stuff you can buy in the segment. The flowing lines of the exterior are not carried in here. Instead you get smooth clean lines with decent aluminium inserts lending a classy look to the cabin. The gear knob is the only shiny bit and is illuminated notifying the driver of the mode which is been selected. The seats are very comfortable and supportive all-round. However it must be noted that the rear seats are for two people only, as it is a squeeze for the third passenger. The switches and buttons feel tough and surely will last ages. The floating console gets copper coloured finish and has a small storage pocket behind it. Another beautiful feature is the frameless rear view mirror, which also automatically dims glare from headlights at the rear of the vehicle.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The V40 Cross Country comes equipped with a 2.0 litre 5-cylinder diesel power plant which develops a meaty 350Nm torque. It sprints from 0-100kmph in 9.3 seconds. Torque is available from as low as 1500rpm which means you are in the torqueband almost all of the time. The steering connects to the driver only when pushed hard, other times it is pretty normal. You may push the V40 Cross Country to the limits, but it feels that it does not like it because at nearly 2.0 tonnes this Volvo is in fact very heavy.
Volvo cars are widely considered as the safest vehicles in the entire automobile industry and the V40 is no exception. Numerous driver aids like Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Laser Assisted Automatic Braking, Intelligent Driver Information System, and many more keep the occupants safe in case of an accident. The car comes equipped with side airbags, driver knee airbag and whiplash protection (WHIPS) enabling it to receive 5 stars in the Euro NCAP collision test.
The Volvo V40 Cross Country is a fun hatchback which really cares for its occupants. It has a frugal diesel which will return nearly 19km for a litre and with 150bhp on tap is not exactly a slouch. The ride is comfortable and it eats up uneven surfaces with ease and plaint. Yes it may be bit expensive but consider this, with a host of so many safety technologies taking care of you and your loved ones. It is a cool bargain really.
VOLVO V40 CROSS COUNTRY SPECIFICATIONS
Engine
Transmission
Max Power
Max Torque
Kerb Weight
1984cc, D3 5-cylinder Turbo diesel
6-speed Automatic
150 bhp@ 3500rpm
350 Nm@ 1500-2750rpm
2010 kgs
Suspension: Front/Rear
Brake: Front/ Rear
Fuel Tank Capacity
Tyres: Front/ Rear
Price
McPherson Spring Strut/ Multi-Link
Disc/Disc
60 litres
225/50 R17
Rs.28,50,000
(ex-showroom Delhi)
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