[Aika Car Test Drive Original]
When it comes to Volvo, the biggest label on its body is undoubtedly safety. But because its label is too deeply rooted in people's hearts, it is often overlooked that it is not only security, but also other good hard power. The protagonist of this test drive, Volvo XC40, officially called "three good students", that is, good looking and good at ease. Whether it looks good or not is a subjective question, but it is certain that it is not ugly. It's not hard to understand, it's safe and comfortable enough to drive, but can the Volvo XC40 perform satisfactorily? Let's find out.
Volvo Volvo XC40 (RFQ module, do not edit manually, if you need to delete, please right-click on the image to delete THE RFQ)
The test drive model is the 2022 Volvo XC40 T4 4WD Chi Heng Fashion Edition (hereinafter collectively referred to as the new Volvo XC40), and the official price is 286,800. The new Volvo XC40 is basically the same as the old model in terms of exterior and interior, mainly in terms of configuration slight adjustments, of which the new Volvo XC40 cancels the T5 4WD Zhiya Sport model, and only has front fog lights on the secondary top and top models.
In terms of powertrain, the test drive model is equipped with a 2.0T four-cylinder engine with a maximum power of 140 kW (190 hp) / 4700 rpm and a peak torque of 300 Nm / 1400-4000 rpm.
In terms of drivetrain, the new Volvo XC40 series is equipped with an 8-speed manual transmission as standard.
In the chassis structure part, the new Volvo adopts a combination of front McPherson type + rear multi-link independent suspension, which is also a more common collocation of the same class.
The new Volvo XC40 is very brisk to drive, the throttle response is relatively smooth, and it does not deliberately create the illusion of thick vehicle power, resulting in discomfort caused by the start of the vehicle. Therefore, the control of the accelerator pedal does not require too much thought, how much power is given by how much throttle is clicked, even if it is the driver who is in contact with the new Volvo XC40 for the first time, it can be easily driven.
Of course, you don't need to worry about the lack of power, and you can get a brisk starting rhythm through the blessing of the four-wheel drive system. And when encountering slow traffic on the road, making up a foot of throttle can also simply complete the overtaking, without dragging mud and water.
I was more impressed by the smoothness of the new Volvo XC40, which is also inseparable from the credit of the 8-speed manual transmission, which is highly matched with the engine and the movement of the lift and lower gear is silent.
The test drive model supports four driving modes, namely Comfort mode, Eco mode, Dynamic mode, and Off-road mode. The driving experience between these four driving modes is still relatively well-placed, and drivers with different road conditions and different personalities can find suitable driving modes.
Steering wheel steering feels light and electronic flavor is strong, but the steering feedback and directivity are remarkable, and it is easier to write when steering, which may make female users more comfortable. The foot feel of the accelerator pedal and brake pedal is also relatively light, which is consistent with the adjustment of the steering wheel.
The chassis of the new Volvo XC40 left me with a first impression of being quite sporty, as if it was not the "softness" that people had in mind, and could convey a more realistic sense of road feedback. When encountering bumpy sections, the toughness of the chassis can soften the vibration very well, and there is no stiff "Kuang, Kuang" feeling.
It is worth mentioning that the new Volvo XC40's sound insulation and noise reduction level is amazing, even when driving on national highways that are not in good condition, the interior of the cockpit remains quiet. The control of engine noise, wind noise and road noise is very decent.
In terms of safety assist functions, the new Volvo XC40 is equipped with city safety system, which warns of potential driving hazards and avoids them. In the actual test drive process, it can be felt that the intervention of the auxiliary function is smooth, and the control of the size is also in place, which will not make the driver feel "violated". In a lateral comparison of the actual experience of safety accessibility, Volvo is able to rank among the best.
Volvo XC40 Dynamics: Easy and comfortable
Volvo brand models have always been highly recognizable, and this family design language has also been recognized and loved by consumers. The well-known iconic mid-net, Quake headlights, Viking Axe taillights, etc. have injected more brand genes into the Volvo XC40.
The hexagonal grille adopts a concave design and is embellished with two-color trims, which is well enhanced by the three-dimensional sense and sophistication, and also creates an elegant atmosphere.
Quake LED headlights are naturally not absent from the Volvo XC40, and the visual effect is excellent and quite offensive when lit. In addition, the Volvo XC40 series is equipped with LED high/low beam lights, automatic headlights and intelligent high beam lights as standard, even if driving in the dark, you can get good lighting effects, as well as the safety improvement brought about by the blessing of the technology configuration.
Tough lines and curved sides of the body are used to portray a sense of power and create an uninhibited style. At the same time, the vehicle also offers a two-color body selection to cater to the aesthetic preferences of consumers who pursue fashionable personality.
The test drive model uses a five-spoke rim design, which has a bit of a wild feeling. Matched this is the 235/55 R18-sized ULtraContact UC6 SUV series, a balanced tyre that combines safety, comfort and handling.
The Volvo XC40 has a narrow upper and lower wide tail design, which brings a good sense of heaviness. The most conspicuous is undoubtedly the Viking Axe taillight set, which not only emphasizes the recognition of the model, but also improves the safety of driving at night. The two-out exhaust layout of the bilateral single out and the silver lower skid plate give the Volvo XC40 a good sporty vision.
In the interior part, the new Volvo XC40 also continues the design and layout of the old model, conveying a simple and atmospheric atmosphere as a whole, and the workmanship and materials are remarkable. In addition, carpets and door panel linings are made of recyclable PET eco-friendly materials to provide a green response.
The three-spoke steering wheel is wrapped in leather, the touch is more delicate, and the multi-function buttons on both sides are also more commonly used functions in daily driving.
The 12.3-inch full LCD dashboard displays a delicate effect, and the acquisition of driving information is also more intuitive and clear. It is worth mentioning that as the driving mode changes, the dashboard theme will also change accordingly.
The 9-inch central control screen display effect and operation response are remarkable, the system logic is also clear and easy to understand, and the learning cost is very low.
As an entry-level version of the four-wheel drive version, the test drive model is wrapped in fabric material, and leather fabric is available as an option. Fortunately, the comfort of the seats has not been compromised, and the main driver's seat supports multi-directional electric adjustment, as well as 2 memory seats.
Editor's Summary: As a compact luxury SUV, the new Volvo XC40 may not have a gorgeous and cool design, but when you experience it deeply, you will find that it is restrained and subtle. Personalized design, skin-friendly and environmentally friendly materials, comfortable and considerate configuration, safe and comfortable driving experience, can hit your car appeal very well, it is a silent way to express its luxury and high-end.
Highlights review:
The 2022 Volvo XC40 was officially listed and sold from 264,800
Price adjustment for volvo XC40 pure electric version starting from 299,000
Pure Electricity Ignites Winter Passion Experience XC40 Pure Electric & Light Bee S
Volvo Static: Family style