Volvo XC40 spied testing in the UK

Will arrive later this year.

Volvo has begun testing the Volvo XC40 on public roads ahead of its debut later this year. Recently a test mule of the Volvo XC40 was spied in Worthing, UK, courtesy Motoring Research.

The Volvo XC40 is derived from the Volvo Concept 40.1 unveiled last year, and despite the heavy camouflage, it looks like the production version won't deviate much from the concept car, with respect to design and styling. The youngest SUV model in the Volvo range also incorporates signature cues of the bigger and more premium XC60 and XC90, such as the Thor's Hammer headlights, upright grille with the Volvo Iron Mark logo and L-shaped tail lights. A notable change from the concept version is bigger rear windows and the conventional door handles.

The Volvo XC40 is the first model to ride on the new CMA platform co-developed with Geely. Along with 1.5-litre three-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel models, the XC40 range will include a T5 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid model positioned at the top. The T5 Twin Engine powertrain combines a 180 bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol and a 74 bhp electric motor with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission to spin the front wheels. The battery will store enough charge to offer a pure electric driving range of about 30 miles (48.28 km).

Also Read: Volvo executive hints at new entry-level 20 Series range

The Volvo XC40 is set to release this Autumn (September-November) in international markets. An Indian launch is likely to happen, given that there is demand for luxury compact SUVs in the country. Apparently, Volvo Cars is planning to commence local assembly in India in order to push more volumes.

[Image Source: Motoring Research]