2019 Volvo XC40, Built to Succeed!

Since its spectacular reorganization, Volvo has been hitting them out of the park, one after another. An early success was the large XC90, named best in its category by several different automotive publications and seducer of many consumers here and elsewhere. Followed the XC60, which largely borrowed the same design and technical elements as its larger sibling. It too won over journalists and car buyers alike. 

Neither of these models, however, competes in a market segment that has been in constant growth in the past five years: luxury compact SUVs. Virtually non-existent as a category just a decade ago, it has been steadily gobbling up market share.

For Volvo, this segment is a no-brainer, like a lazy fastball right into its wheelhouse. The company first unveiled the 2019 XC40 last fall. Logic may have dictated that it follow in the footsteps of its Volvo linemates, but that would have been a mistake. This new model is, according to the automaker, an essentially urban vehicle also well-suited to weekend outings in the mountains or to the cottage. At the same time, it possesses all the qualities of an off-road-ready SUV, notably due to the presence of Volvo’s proven all-wheel drive system and the highest ground clearance of any model in its class.

None of that makes it a model radically different than rival small luxury SUVs. Instead, where it truly blazes its own way is in terms of design.

A unique silhouette 
From the first glance, this is immediately identifiable as a Volvo, due mainly to that distinctive front grille, the Thor’s Hammer-style headlights and the unique taillights. The XC40 also sports sculpted lines on its lower flanks, a rear hatch featuring an imposing deflector and side windows that rises upwards in the direction of the rear pillar. Even in the densest traffic this car is impossible to miss!
That said, the interior is where things get spectacular. The uniquely-designed instrument panel respects the reference points found in all Volvo models, but with an undeniable touch of originality. Volvo engineers kept the 9-inch vertical data screen, while the indicator dials are arrayed on a 12.3-inch horizontal screen directly in front of the driver. The steering wheel is pleasant to grip and integrates several commands. 

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