As the luxury crossover SUV segment exploded in popularity over the last decade, Volvo decided to enter the fray with the XC40 for the 2018 model year. Long known for its history of delivering safe, stylish and luxurious sedans and station wagons, Volvo was now tasked with incorporating these design pillars into a compact SUV.
So how did Volvo fare in its first endeavor? If the XC40’s excellent sales figures and rave reviews from major auto publications are any indication, it’s been a smashing success and revelation in the auto industry. In nearly every comparison test against European competitors such as the Audi Q3, Jaguar E-Pace and BMW X2, the Volvo XC40 finds itself in the winner’s circle.
2021 XC40 T5 R-Design Showcases Volvo’s Performance DNA
Available in both FWD and AWD variants with multiple styling options to choose from—the goal was to make the XC40 appeal to a variety of different tastes. There is certainly no wrong choice to make among the XC40’s three distinct trim levels, but the T5 R-Design is sure to speak to your inner-enthusiast nature. It best represents the XC40’s performance-driven DNA with its sporty exterior styling.
The T5 trims are AWD, whereas the T4 trims are FWD. While you may not particularly need AWD in Texas where harsh winters aren’t a threat, the T5 trims do add something worthwhile—significantly more horsepower.
While both models feature a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the T4 is rated at 184 hp while the T5’s output is boosted to 248 hp—almost a 35 percent increase. Combined with the XC40 small stature and smooth shifting eight-speed automatic, that’s good enough for consistent low six-second zero to 60mph sprints. That’s near the top of its class among luxury compact SUVs.
The R-Design adds a sleek black roof, black mirror caps, 19” matte black diamond cut alloy wheels, and elegant R-Design leather seats with nubuck upholstery to the XC40. If you really want to get wild, lava orange carpet can be added for only $100 that covers the floorboards, door inserts and tunnel console sides. Inside, the R-Design also features a digital instrument cluster, wireless charging pad and gigantic infotainment screen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2021 Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design Pricing and Options
The 2021 Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design starts at $42,945 after destination and delivery. To add even more visual flair, opting for the 21” wheels ($3115), trunk spoiler ($430) and exterior styling kit featuring brushed stainless steel accents ($2225) will set you back another $5770.
Notable creature comforts like the Harman Kardon Premium Sound system ($800), heated front seats and steering wheel ($750), and the XC40’s Advanced Package ($1400) add another $2950 to the bottom line. The Advanced Package includes full LED headlights with active-bending technology, a 360-degree surround view camera, a headlight cleaning system and a driver assistance system with adaptive cruise control.
And to get the very best performance from your XC40 T5 R-Design, Volvo’s Four C suspension ($1000) is a must have option. This setup allows the driver to select between five distinct modes—comfort, ECO, dynamic and off road—enabling the electronically adjustable shock absorbers to support your desired driving dynamics. Totaled together, these additional options spec-out a near loaded T5 R-Design for $52,665. That’s significantly less than the competition, making the Volvo XC40 the best overall value in its class.
Categories:
New Inventory