Page 18 - Motoring Issue 1 2021

TEST REVIEW VOLVO

VOLVO XC40 D4
VOLVO XC40 D4

R-Design
R-Design

he baby in the Volvo SUV range,
the XC40 is aimed at the premium
Tboutique niche in the market.
Although it’s not small inside, the range
of options available and, especially the
R-Design choice, combine to create an
extremely stylish vehicle.
D4 means that power of 140kW and
400Nm is provided by the familiar 2l
4-cylinder diesel engine that is found in
all models. Also standard is the ultra-
smooth 8-speed automatic
transmission, in this case through all
four wheels. Multi-modes are available,
including a rough road option when you
want to venture onto dirt, although I
doubt many owners will ever do so.
R-Design adds visual features on
the exterior, including the contrasting
black roof and body kit. The 20-inch
wheels may look great but be aware
that they do make the ride somewhat

harder in general driving conditions and could even be a
disadvantage when venturing onto dirt roads. I would
prefer to describe the R-Design as best suited to the
urban warrior.
Our test featured the usual mix of urban and open
road cruising and I felt our overall consumption of
8.0l/100km may have been on the high side for this
combination.
As always, the XC40 excels in the standard safety
equipment fitted and the many features like ‘City Safe’
and pedestrian and animal recognition stand out. The six
airbags are standard.
The massive boot measures 470l – this can be
extended by dropping the rear seats in a 60/40 split.
At R743 900, the XC40 R-Design is a ‘must look and
test’ if you are buying in this category. n

Use this link to view our video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rV2_cNBU4I

MOTORING | Issue 1, 2021 | 16