Review and Test Drive: 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD Momentum
One of my favorite features is the Active Bending Light feature with the LED headlights. ABL follows the movement of the steering wheel to provide illumination in turns and curves.
Despite the car’s modest dimensions, it has a rather substantial feel although this doesn’t take away from its thoroughly tossable nature. Although it isn’t a sports sedan, it still wants to have fun. Over harsher pavement, the XC40 shielded occupants from most of the jolts.
The T5’s 248-horsepower engine is nothing if not peppy. We were able to get from a standstill to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 6.3 seconds.
Once underway, the cabin is rather hushed aside from the growl of the T5’s engine. The Harmon Kardon sound system’s 13 speakers filled the cabin with clear, well reproduced music of multiple genres, and the Visual Park Assist with 360° Camera makes parking a breeze, although the Volvo will automatically find a spot and park itself as well. Yes, really.
BOTTOM LINE
The XC40’s starting price of $35,200, along with the option to subscribe to the car via Care by Volvo for $600 per month, should entice multiple premium subcompact SUV buyers (or subscribers) to consider the Swedish option. The combination of excellent handling and an interior befitting a vehicle with a higher price point may in fact seal the deal.
THE DETAILS
2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD Momentum | |
Base price/price-as-tested | $35,200/$44,315 |
Drivetrain | Front engine, all-wheel drive |
Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4 cylinder |
Horsepower/Torque | 248 / 258 |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Curb weight (lbs) | 4,895 |
Wheelbase (inches) | 78.7 |
Length x width x height (inches) | 174.2 x 75.2 x 65.3 |
0-60 mph (seconds) (est.) | 6.3 |
Fuel economy(mpg) (city/hwy) | 23/31 |
(Photos: Accura Media Group)