2019 Volvo XC 40 T5 AWD R-Design Review by David Colman +VIDEO
8.5 Stars out of 10 Stars
By David Colman
Special Correspondent to The Auto Channel
![]() 2019 Volvo XC 40 T5 AWD R Design |
While the base price of the XC 40 is eminently affordable at just $35,200, you will probably have difficulty locating one for that kind of money. Our test sample was loaded with four expensive option packages, and five additional stand alone options that totaled $9,145 and bumped total cost to $45,340. The most expensive addition was the "R Design Features" group. For $2,500, you gain 19 inch R Design wheels, Sport Chassis, Sensus Navigation, R-Design Leather and Nubuck Upholstery, Perforated Leather Steering Wheel, Black Contrast Roof, Mirror Covers and Headliner, Integrated Roof rails in Gloss Black, "Cutting Edge" Aluminum Deco Inlays, and 8-Way Power Driver's Seat and 4-Way Power Passenger Seat with Lumbar. Since our test Volvo was already finished in exterior black, it would seem that the fuss over R-Design black roof, mirror caps and roof rack is a rather redundant expenditure. However, the overall look of the R-Design XC 40 is undeniably attractive in a Swedish minimalist sort of way.
![]() 2019 Volvo XC 40 T5 AWD R Design |
Propelling this Volvo is a 2.0 liter turbocharged, direct injection gasoline engine which produces an adequate but not scintillating 248hp at a rather peaky figure of 5500rpm. What saves the day in performance terms is the excellent low rpm torque output of the turbo 4, which peaks at 256lb.-ft. at just 1800rpm. In other words, you never really need to wind this engine to its power peak thanks to its abundant torque at trundling speeds. While the XC 40 lacks the combined turbocharged/supercharged power units of bigger Volvos like the XC 60 and 90, you will never feel that the XC 40 is underpowered. This is an exceptionally competent powertrain, managed by a Geartronic automatic that is pleasurable to shift.
![]() 2019 Volvo XC 40 T5 AWD R Design |
Volvo's introductory advertising for the XC 40 coyly touts the vehicle's futuristic promise. One ad mysteriously says, "You used to buy songs too. The new Volvo XC 40. The car you can subscribe to." Another claims, "Designed with everything in mind. Our idea of luxury." For the XC 40, including a printed owner's manual would be my idea of luxury.
2019 VOLVO XC 40 T5 AWD R-DESIGN
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ENGINE: 2.0 Liter Inline 4, Turbocharged with Direct Injection
HORSEPOWER: 249hp @ 5600rpm
TORQUE: 256lb.-ft.@1800rpm
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 24-26MPG City/30-34MPG Highway
PRICE AS TESTED: $45,340
HYPES: Stunning Interior, Impeccable Design Work
GRIPES: SENSUS Needs a Rethink
STAR RATING: 8.5 Stars out of 10