Before taking the plunge towards full electrification, Volvo has been busy making its range full of mild hybrids. The whole Volvo range is now mild-hybrid and that includes the XC40 compact luxury SUV too. The XC40 recently saw the addition of the Recharge EV model while now the updated XC40 mild-hybrid petrol joins the line-up. The engine is a 2.0l mild hybrid powertrain with a 48-volt battery. There is more power now at 197bhp while torque is the same as before while an 8-speed gearbox is on hand.
Compared to the previous XC40 non-hybrid petrol version, the new mild hybrid is more refined and more powerful. There is more response in terms of better power delivery and it feels stronger in terms of acceleration with a diesel-like feel in terms of better outright performance.
The engine feels smooth and punchy now with the mild hybrid powertrain surely making its presence felt. Efficiency has also increased now from before with better highway/city figures near 10kmpl in the city. That said, we would have liked a sports mode or more options in terms of selecting drive modes
Where the XC40 scores are the toughness from the way it feels with its solid suspension to the superb refinement as it shuts off the world. The low-speed ride is a bit stiff but feels tough in a way an SUV should and it climbs up to speed with the stability that one expects from a luxury SUV. The compact size though makes it very easy to drive.
The cabin continues to be a highlight in terms of the excellent quality of the detailing. The air vents to the wood finish are all classy while the portrait touchscreen continues to be there. The crystal gear knob is also a neat detail.
What has also changed is the addition of a new Google-based infotainment system which integrates Google apps and services. Google Maps has now relayed also on the updated digital cluster with various customizations while as always all of the controls are within the touchscreen. In terms of equipment, you get a huge panoramic sunroof, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a PM 2.5 air purifier, connected car tech and more.
There are of course ADAS features on board and there is now Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert being added to the list.
The introductory pricing is at Rs 43.2 lakh for the single fully loaded trim and that means it is more aggressively priced than rivals while having the mild-hybrid powertrain plus tweaked styling and an updated interior. The sharper-looking new XC40 then is a stronger buy now in this segment of compact luxury SUVs.
What We Like - Looks, quality, features, mild-hybrid powertrain, performance
What We Do Not - No paddle shifters on offer
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