Volvo V40

Volvo is known for their superior interior design and comfort and the V40 continues this tradition. The interiors are premium with a splurge of plush leather. The dashboard is setup very nicely with everything aesthetically and ergonomically in place. The seats are extremely comfortable and offer a very comfortable driving experience. There is a decent amount of room for all occupant, but the rear seat passengers might find it a bit cramped in terms of headroom. Overall the interiors are very luxurious and much more comfortable than any other car in its segment.

The V40 comes with a very powerful and beautifully refined 1984cc 5-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 148bhp and 350Nm of torque. The engine is beautifully crafted and mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Volvo makes very good diesel engines and the V40 engine is very good.

The V40 also performs very well on the road. For a premium hatchback it gives you superior comfort with great driving dynamics. The engine has a good amount of torque and the car can pick up speed very easy. In fact, it can reach 100kmph from a standstill in 9.3 seconds, which is decent enough, but not as good as its competitors. The overall ride quality however is fantastic and suspension setup is superb and offers a smooth ride on any road surface. On the highway also, the car performs very well and it can work as a good touring car. The handling is good but it could have been a little bit more direct, it is nowhere as good as the BMW. On the whole the car still is very good in terms of performance and handling.

The V40 can offer a fuel economy of 14kmpl on average.

The V40 does come with some very good features for this segment as it comes with power steering with mounted controls, power windows, electronic climate control, interior air quality system, panoramic glass roof, rain sensors, cruise control, high performance audios system with a 5-inch screen.

Volvo is the leader in automotive safety so you can expect the best technology. Some features include Blind Spot Information Display, ABS with traction control, advanced stability control, engine drag control, Active bending lights, dual stage airbags, and parking sensors.

The quality of the car is top notch. The exteriors panels are fitted nicely and made up of premium components, and the interiors exude the most premium and luxurious cabin. The engine is also very well refined and all other components are good quality. There is not much cabin noise in the cabin and the ride quality is superb. The only problem might be that servicing might be expensive, but then again Volvo cars rarely breakdown or need repair. Spare parts will also be expensive, but on the whole the car is very reliable.

The V40 is priced on par with the segment and offers good value for money, especially because of its superior comfort levels and features.

The V40 is a fantastic premium hatch, but then it doesn’t have the same performance as the BMW and the Mercedes, but it does beat the Germans in terms of overall comfort and safety technology. If you want comfort and protection in a very reliable and good looking car then the V40 is perfect for you. But if you want a driver’s car then check out the Germans.