Volvo enters Indian compact SUV market. Launches the new XC40. Prices, details , specifications here

The much-awaited Volvo XC40 is finally here. The Swedish car makers’ first compact SUV that was revealed in May had been a topic of discussion in the automobile industry.

The high seated car was introduced into the Indian market with a price tag of Rs 39.9 lakh (ex-showroom). The company, however, has launched only the top-spec R-design trim in India for now and is dependent on the market performance for further plans.

With its entry into the Indian compact SUV segment, the new XC40 will lock horns with its German counterparts, BMW X1, the Mercedes GLA, and the Audi Q3.

“The XC40 is our first entry in the small SUV segment, broadening the appeal of the Volvo brand and moving it in a new direction,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president, and chief executive said in a statement. “It represents a fresh, creative and distinctive new member of the Volvo line-up. So it only feels natural to reveal the XC40 here in Milan, a buzzing European hotspot for fashion, art, design and lifestyle.” 

The SUV which is available in a range of other engine options around the world, however, will be available in India only with the 2-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine named as the D4. Put your foot down and you can feel the 2-liter engine putting down a power of 187bhp and a torque of 400Nm.

Volvo has justified its late entry into the Indian compact SUV segment by adding a ton load of features into the XC40. The Swedish carmaker is the first one to introduce semi-autonomous driving into the compact SUV segment. It uses radar sensors to let the driver take his hands off the wheel for a while after which they have to take over again.

Volvo has maintained its image in the industry with its feature-packed cabinet. The cabinet will have a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment enabled with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, the driver seat will have a memory feature and will adjust the positions according to the presets set up by the driver before-hand. The audio system on the car is a 660W Harman Kardon sound system with optimally places speakers throughout the cabinet.

Additionally, the car will have a ‘Hands-free’ parking assist, powered front seats, powered tailgate, satellite navigation and heated seats at the front as well as the rear.