Volvo updates its V40 premium hatchback

The Volvo V40 has always been one of the more interesting-looking premium hatchbacks. It’s also Volvo’s most popular model in Europe and the UK, and now it’s been given a mild update for the 2017 model year. The revised version is available now in Momemtum, R-Design, Inscription and Cross Country trims.

Styling

On first glance, you’d be hard-pushed notice any significant changes, but the most noticeable are new ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights, like those found on the Volvo XC90 SUV and new Volvo V90 estate, as well as a new grille and Volvo “Iron Mark” badge. At the rear, the V40 remains largely the same as the outgoing model, retaining its curvy design and distinctive lights.

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There are five extra colours to choose from for the exterior – four various shades of blue, plus another called Luminous Sand – as well as eight new alloy wheel designs.

The rugged V40 Cross Country model receives the same range of updates as the regular hatchback, but retains extra body cladding around its wheelarches, bumpers and sills.

Interior

Inside, there are some new seat choices, three new trim panels for the centre console and some subtly different trims for the door panels.

In keeping with the new XC90, the facelifted V40 comes with some of the latest in-car technology. Remote access via Volvo’s On Call system is available, enabling access to your car’s information via a smartphone app, while the Swedish brand’s Sensus navigation system is also available as an option.

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Engines

There are no details of any new engines joining the range, so expect the same selection of economical diesels (D2, D3 & D4) and turbocharged petrols (T2, T3 & T5), although the smallest 1.6-litre D2 diesel has improved CO2 emissions of just 89g/km when fitted with a manual gearbox.

Price and release date

The updated Volvo V40 will be shown in full at the Geneva Motor Show, with prices expected to remain the same for the tweaked model range. We’ll bring you exact details when we see the car for ourselves.