TopGear South Africa | A nip and tuck for Volvo’s XC40 range

A nip and tuck for Volvo’s XC40 range

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The Volvo XC40 is the latest model within the Swedish product portfolio to get into the surgeon’s room for a nip and tuck for the 2023 model year.

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The refresh also brings a new trim-level structure as the brand electrifies its XC40 lineup. The hybridised variants adopt the B nomenclature. On the other hand, the fully-electric models continue to carry the P badges.

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The hybrid variants consist of the B3, B4 and B5. They all pair a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt hybrid system and an 8-speed automatic transmission. With the setup, the B3 produces 110 kW and 265 Nm of torque sent to the front axle, while the B4 has a similar format but with 145 kW and 300 Nm of torque.

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The B5 pumps out 183 kW and 350 Nm sent entirely to all four wheels.

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Aesthetically, the updated XC40 range gets new front and rear bumpers, reworked headlights, new alloy wheel designs, and a fresh exterior colour palette. Exclusive to the fully-electric P6 and P8 variants is the optional black roof. Buyers can also add unique appeal in bright and dark detailing, adding chrome and gloss-black treatment to the exterior bits and pieces.

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The inside boasts subtle changes in the form of a new range-wide Android-powered infotainment system that houses built-in Google apps and services.

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Also, Volvo has done away with the Momentum, Inscription, and R-Design trim levels for Essential, Plus and Ultimate, with PHEV and BEV powerplants only available with the latter two trims.

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