The Volvo V40 has become the latest to the SUV craze. Volvo has decided to axe its most affordable hatchback in favour of an SUV-coupe.
Underpinned by the previous generation Ford Focus’ C1 platform, the Volvo V40 hatchback broke cover and received a soft cosmetic refresh. Now, as customers and enthusiasts eagerly await the second generation model, Volvo’s EMEA chief Lex Kerssemakers has revealed there’s no plan to launch one.
“We need to do something more creative, which is why we decided not to replace the V40,” Kerssemakers told Autocar recently. Production of the compact luxury hatchback will stop this year, and the model that will take its place isn’t far.
We can’t wait too long to introduce the new car. We don’t want to lose our space in the segment.
Kerssemakers referred to the V40 successor as a high-riding model and said that Volvo will require another form of style in the next 2-3 years in the 40 series. This was an indication that an SUV-coupe may replace the compact hatchback.
The SUV-coupe will likely ride on the CMA platform Volvo. The first model based on this platform, also an SUV-coupe, has just been unveiled – the Geely FY11. Volvo has confirmed electrification for every new model that it will launch, and unlike the C1 platform, the CMA platform supports electrification.
Two diesel engines, a 1.6 litre Ford Duratorq, which produces 115 hp, a 2.0 litre Volvo, developing 150 hp (D3) or 177ch (D4)
The Volvo V40 is a posh five-door family hatchback that blurs the boundaries between mainstream hatchback offerings like the Peugeot 308 and Ford Focus (with which it shares its mechanicals, incidentally), and more premium offerings.
The V40 D3 is more satisfying to drive and posts a respectable 0-62mph time of 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 130mph.
The Volvo V40 is not a slow car, even when the small 1.6-litre petrol or diesel engines are fitted. Your first port of call (literally) is the OBD socket. Plug in a code reader and see what it comes up with.
If the code it generates is P0300, it signifies that there is in the engine. So, next you’ll need to remove the engine valve cover, which will allow access to the valve springs. One or more of these is likely to be broken, so you’ll need to invest in new springs then set about getting the right tools in place before you go about replacing the springs.Just follow your Haynes V40 Autofix, which will help you along the way.
