There a few things Volvo is really known for: safety, wagons and hatchbacks. Exciting combination? Maybe not, but it has been getting a whole lot more exciting lately. Volvo is spicing things up further with the addition of the 2014 Volvo V40 Cross Country today. Over the past few weeks we’ve seen the 2014 Volvo V40 R-Design and special edition models like the C30 Polestar debut.
The V40 R-Design only improves on what was already the company’s most stylish hatchback ever. Unfortunately (and we’ve really been driving this point home) the V40 isn’t slated for sale in the United States. We’ll just keep saying it until they decide to do something about it. The V40 Cross Country comes as an extension of Volvo’s strength in off-road wagons with the XC70.
Here in the U.S, the XC 70 has a fiercely loyal following, not dissimilar to Subaru and the Outback. As a big, luxury, off-road capable wagon the XC 70 is one-of-a-kind. Volvo is hoping to replicate that success with the V40 Cross Country. Its competitors are other small CUVs, and a direct target is the Subaru XV CrossTrek (although it isn’t as luxurious).
Visually the car gets more aggressive front and rear bumpers with plastic cladding, a raised ride height, roof rails, contrasting side sills and a skid plate. Volvo say it has been designed for “those who want a sense of adventure in their everyday life.” Practically, the V40 Cross Country adds an all-wheel drive system when paired with a T5 engine. The v40 has a plethora of engine options, but the one you really care about is the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder. The V40 Cross Country has the right combination of extra ruggedness, style and fuel-efficiency. With it we could see Volvo establishing itself in yet another niche market. The company hasn’t weighed in on whether the Cross Country will be sold here, but it isn’t a no as far as we’ve heard. If it happens it would sure aggravate many who want the V40 over here in standard guise.
