Volvo should have only provided us with a teaser trailer that would allow us to catch a glimpse of the new 2018 XC40 after which we would wait for the full introduction on September 21. However, Volvo Hungary changed the plans.
The Volvo’s branch in Hungary accidentally launched the uncut version of the same trailer revealed by the Swedish carmaker, promoting the new compact SUV. So far, we have seen several prototypes testing on public roads, and now the final production car is clearly visible.
The new model closely resembles the design of the last year’s Volvo 40.1 Concept with several differences. The most prominent change besides the regular door mirrors is the use of traditional instead of the hidden-rear door handles.
The new XC40 shares the same interior design language with the XC60 and XC90, a car which has a large touch screen that dominates the center console. Unlike the two models, the cabin of the new XC40 is much more casual.
According to the company, their goal was to produce the new version with highly practical and functional interior. For instance, to provide better storage space in the doors, the speakers had to be repositioned to create enough room in the door compartment for you to place a tablet, laptop or something else such as bottles of water.
The 2018 Volvo XC40 is going to be based on the company’s Compact Modular Architecture, that is shared with the carmaker’s Chinese owner Geely. The engine range is not announced at the moment, but we have received confirmation that the brand new 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo gasoline powerplant is one of the units that will be packed under the hood of the new model. Also, we should expect the four-cylinder Drive-E engines for the upper trims.
Furthermore, the Swedes are going to introduce a “Twin Engine” plug-in hybrid version which combines the electric motor and the new three-cylinder gasoline unit. The transmission that will be used is going to be a seven-speed dual clutch automatic, whereas the car may be badged as the T5. Once it goes on sale, the 2018 Volvo XC40 will rival the BMW X2 and Audi Q2. Stay tuned for more details.
