Remember we read about Volvo’s small car strategy last year? Now the company has something more to talk about that. Understandably, the Concept 40.1 has been named XC40, and since its the brand’s first ever entry into the small premium SUV segment, Volvo promises it to be a fresh, creative and distinctive member of the line-up.
“XC40 drivers are interested in fashion, design and popular culture, and often live in large, vibrant cities. They want a car that reflects their personality. The XC40 is that car,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Chief Design Officer at Volvo Cars.
Volvo says that the designers have full freedom to create a car that brings a vibrancy, individuality and playfulness the small premium SUV segment currently lacks. Street fashion, city architecture, high-end designer goods and popular culture were all sources of inspiration as Volvo’s design team defined materials, patterns and colour options for the new XC40.
The XC40 offers a broader and more playful colour palette, making it the most expressive model in Volvo’s portfolio, reflecting the outgoing personalities of its drivers, added the company.
“Our customer research clearly showed that for the XC40 and for this segment, we needed a wider selection of colours and materials than we usually offer. As Volvo Cars has never designed a car like the XC40 before, we could start from scratch and give it energy and playfulness,” added Robin Page, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Cars.
“We took inspiration for the XC40 colour and materials from many different sources, mixing them and putting them back together into something cohesive. What we created is a car with a tough attitude that feels fresh, energetic and confident,” said Ebba Maria Thunberg, Vice President Colour & Materials at Volvo Cars.
While the exterior colour combinations range from a solid, monochromatic theme, to dual compositions in vivid colours, the interior colour choices include a warm Lava Orange carpet, an Oxide Red upholstery and a range of new and distinctive trims and materials with designs inspired by urban architecture and cartography. Natural, felt-based carpets, headliners and door inserts will deliver a modern touch.
As for the technical bits, the XC40 will be built on the CMA platform which is jointly developed with parent Geely, and also shared with the new brand Lynk & Co. The XC40 is expected to be offered in plug-in hybrid and full electric versions.
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