While we have had the diesel versions of Volvo’s last Ford Focus-based small car for a number of months now, the petrol version have finally arrived. The diesels are perky performers with punchy engines and great handling, so what can the petrol-powered versions add to the mix?
The answer to that question is; power, and quite a decent chunk of it too.
Outside
Likes: The strong, modern stance has quickly become a Volvo design cue. Swoopy and sexy flanks are complimented by the brilliant taillights.
Dislikes: Volvo “face” attractive, but a bit generic across the range. Some of the details are a bit too fussy.
Inside
Likes: Fantastic seats; comfortable and supportive. Intelligent, ergonomically sensible layout of controls. stylishly designed and beautifully made. Quality.
Dislikes: Key placement is easy to get to, but any keyring (or other keys) attached rattle against the dash in a particularly annoying fashion. Lots and LOTS of black. Digital readout in dash looks great, but sometimes tries to jam a bit too much information in.
Under the bonnet
Likes: 2.0-litre turbo four delivers big, instant power when up and running with virtually no torque steer. Transmission is brilliantly matched and is a slick, smooth operator. Insanely flexible power delivery. Makes a decent noise too!
Dislikes: Slight turbo lag at launch. Transmission likes to stay in higher gears unless severely prompted.
On the road
Likes: Sublime ride is controlled and firm, yet never jarring or uncomfortable. Softer than the Focus its is based on, but almost as nimble. Turn-in is sharp and instant, with no body roll. Steering comes alive at higher speeds…
Dislikes: … but is distant and artificial at lower speeds.
Verdict
A convincing and enjoyable package, the V40 T4 is one of those rare modern cars where the petrol is actually better to drive than the diesel.
Still, the Volvo’s beautifully-judged ride/handling combination makes for sublimely easy progress, as well as moments of fun (if you so choose), while the sheer quality with which it is bolted together (and the materials used) puts everything else in the segment to shame. Except, that is, the VW Golf.
And that is where the Volvo’s biggest flaw comes in; it’s price. Particularly in comparison to the insanely well-priced VW. While the Volvo has Euro-badge appeal on its side to elevate it above the majority of the others in its segment, so too does the Golf.
Still, the Volvo is still more exclusive than the Golf, and will no doubt remain so.
Price: $52,990
Engine: 2.0-litre inline five-cylinder petrol
Power/torque: 132kW/300Nm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
0-100km/h: 8.7 seconds
Fuel consumption: 7.6L/100km
CO2 emissions: 177g/km
