Singapore 2018: All-New Volvo XC40 Arrives in Asean

The highly anticipated new Volvo XC40 has arrived in Asean. Wearnes Automotive, the distributor for Volvo vehicles in Singapore, has just launched the new Volvo XC40 at the Singapore Motorshow.

The Volvo XC40 will pop up on the shopping radar of buyers looking for premium compact SUVs such as Audi Q3, BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA as well as Infiniti Q30.

Taking centre stage is the XC40 R-Design. This design package is focused on expressing the sporty soul of the XC40. A glossy black colour theme dominates the upper half of the SUV's exterior (black pillars, roof, roof rails, side mirrors) while nappa and nubuck leather combination upholstery covers the seating surface.

Other interior fittings specific to R-Design include foot pedals, black headlining, aluminium door inlays together with perforations on the steering wheel and shift lever. The orange highlights, called Lava Carpeting, are seen in the door panels and floor carpet and have a rich, bold colour that perfectly expresses the youthful character of the XC40.

The interior of the Volvo XC40 follows on from that of the XC90 and XC60, including the minimalist-looking dashboard. Storage spaces are abundant, with the storage bin under the front centre armrest large enough to hold a small handbag or even a full-sized tissue box, with a removable storage box ahead of it.  

The Volvo XC40 also gets a dedicated wireless phone charging space, hooks for small bags or takeaway food and large door bins. Globally, the XC40 is offered with two engines, with D4 and T5 designations. Both engines deliver drive to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The T5 AWD we have here is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, generating one of the highest outputs in its class at 247 hp. Pricing is unavailable at the moment, but it should be within range of its segment rivals, circa SGD 190,000.

Volvo Malaysia has also added the XC40 with key information at their local website, thus we can expect a launch in near future.