The Swede’s assault on the premium segment is getting really, really serious with their new Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA fighters.
And after the raving reviews of the XC90 and the launch of the impressive S90/V90, we have high expectations indeed for the new 40-Series.
Images teasing the new models were uploaded on Snapchat and were accompanied by the tag “Not your daddy’s Volvo” – just in case anyone has missed the latest XC90, S90 and V90 that have already passed this message along.
The new car will be fully unveiled at the company’s HQ in Gothenburg, Sweden, on May 18 and, although we have no official info yet, it is rumored that it concerns two models, the V40 hatch and the XC40 compact SUV, which will be shown in concept form.
Volvo’s new design language has caught on with customers and reviewers alike, so it makes sense for the the C-segment newcomers to closely mirror the styling of the larger models. The signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED running lights incorporated in the headlights and the clean look at the front set the new models apart from the competition, while at the same time giving them a modern look that is indeed as far removed from your daddy’s Volvo as, say, a 1994 Nokia cell from an iPhone 6S.
Co-developed with Chinese owner Geely, the CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platform that has from the outset been engineered to be up to premium class standards and reduce costs will underpin both new models.
The engine range will comprise of three- and four-cylinder turbocharged units and, potentially at a later date, a plug-in hybrid or even all-electric powertrain, too, might follow.
With the compact SUV segment booming in all major markets it won’t be surprising if the XC40 will indeed be the first one to be launched, as early as 2017. The V40 hatch is next and the S40 nameplate will be making a comeback for an Audi A3 Sedan-rivaling saloon.
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