Referring to the later version of the Volvo V40 rather than the S40 Estate, which shared its name, the car was designed to work on a global C platform, one that is shared with certain Ford and Mazda models. The V40 is distinguished from these cars not just because of its exterior styling but also due to the fact that the Swedish manufacturer decided to alter the spring and damper settings of the platform and to introduce its own power steering system. Four engine options were initially offered, two petrol-driven versions and two diesel-powered ones, and this soon expanded. Much of the early design of the car was down to Chris Benjamin, an American designer, due to the fact that Volvo wanted to establish its model in North America and Europe.
What can you expect to find in a Volvo V40?
A typical Volvo V40 will have plenty of standard features that owners can take advantage of:
- Engine immobiliser
- Child safety locks
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electric windows
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Multiple airbags, including a driver curtain airbag
- Adjustable headrests
In addition to these features, newer Volvo V40s may also include extras, such as:
- CD/MP3/DVD player
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Remote boot opener
- 12V power outlet
- Electronic brake-force distribution system
- Door ajar warning system
- Hill start assistance system
- Analogue and digital instrumentation console
- iPod compatibility
Until recently, Volvo allowed buyers of new cars to pick and mix their chosen features so no two V40s are likely to be exactly the same.
Read the latest Volvo V40 review