The Cross Country series debuted in 1997 and continues is history with the upcoming 2014 Volvo V40 Cross Country.
This time around, the Swedish car manufacturer focused on innovation, implementing multiple safety features and technological functionality.
Currently available only in the UK, the V40 Cross Country could easily find its way across the pond to the USA sometime soon.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact SUV | Base Price: £22,870 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.4 gals (62 L) | Miles Per Gallon: 40 city / 60 hwy |
| Length: 172 in. (437 cm) | Wheel Base: 104.2 in. (264.6 cm) |
| Height: 57.4 in. (145.8 cm) | Width: 80.4 in. (204.1 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3285 lbs (1490 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 11.4 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 4 Cylinder Turbo Direct Injection | Displacement: 1596 cc |
| Horsepower: 180 HP | Max RPM: 5700 RPM |
| Torque: 178 lb-ft @1600-5000 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds | Maximum Speed: 134 mph (216 km/h) |
* T4 FWD, B4164T
Engine
Volvo designed only two engine choices in varying power outputs. It starts with a 1.6 liter D2 diesel engine that brings 115 horsepower, adding to the diesel line is the D4 which brings on 177 horsepower.
The 1984 cc petrol engine, the T4 is capable of providing180 HP. The T5 is an AWD 2.5 liter, 5 cylinder engine that gives you 245 horsepower and features a six-speed automatic gearbox and a six-speed manual or Powershift transmission for the T4.
Performance
The T5 version of the car comes with an all-wheel Hill Descent Control and a Hill Hold function that makes it possible to easily start the car while inclined.
Volvo has developed the Lane Keeping Aid to help the driver. All these features make the V40 Cross Country an SUV that is easy to handle and safe at the same time.
Exterior
Volvo worked on the exterior of the vehicle adding a larger honeycomb mesh grill and an edge to edge air vent which gives the impression that the car is wider. At the same time it creates a contrast with the color of the car.
The manufacturer choose to fit 19 inch rims and reduced the size of the headlights, making it look more like an off-road car rather than a station wagon.
Interior
Ergonomic placement of instruments and controls can be noticed throughout. The gauges have been integrated to take less space while the driving wheel has been filled with controls for easier access.
The navigation system has been placed between the driver and the front passenger right above another control panel. Several options are available for customization such as the seats that come with 5 possible leather tones.
Volvo took a step ahead and introduced a world first feature. The V40 is one of the first cars to come equipped with Pedestrian Airbag Technology. Such innovations make the 2014 Volvo V40 Cross Country a car that is safe for all points of view.
