Volvo India will launch the new generation XC60 this year and the XC40 in 2018.
Swedish carmaker Volvo is on a roll in India. After the launch of the S90 in November last year, the company has launched the S60 Polestar this year and will launch the V90 Cross Country very soon. The New Generation XC60 will be launched in India this year. After a global debut of the XC40 this year, Volvo is also set to bring it to India in 2018. At the same time, Volvo is working on the S40 which is based on CMA platform.
The XC40 is based on all-new CMA platform co-developed with Geely while the second generation XC60 sits on the SPA platform. The XC40 concept, named as 40.1, will produce front-wheel-drive cars and support hybrid cars as well. Powered by 3-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, the XC40 may see addition of the hybrid T5 Twin engine in future.
The XC40 will come with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The exterior theme and interior layout is similar to the existing Volvo line up in India. With the inclusion of ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED DRLs and familiar front end, the XC40 concept hints towards an aggressive and bold design. It rivals the BMW X1, the Audi Q3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA.
The new XC60 is powered by the D5 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This 2.0-litre diesel engine produces 235 HP of power and 480 Nm of torque. Volvo initially plans to launch the Inscription trim in India and import it as a CBU. Based on market response, launch of lower trim levels and more engine options is likely. Design of the new XC60 takes inspiration from the XC90. It features ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED DRLs and 19-inch rims along with a sophisticated design.
In addition to these, it is fairly loaded with advanced features such as ESC, adaptive cruise control and radar-based safety systems. An AWD system and air suspension will also be offered. The insides are covered in Nappa leather and a Sensus infotainment system is also offered. It will compete with the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
The XC40 could be Volvo’s most affordable SUV in India and its launch carries great significance in our market. On a different note, Volvo will also start CKD assembly of the XC90 this year. While prices will not be reduced, customers will end up paying lesser because registration cost of CKD cars is lesser than that of CBUs. By offering modern and futuristic cars in a fast growing luxury car market like India, the Swedish automaker seems to be on the right path.
2nd Gen Volvo XC60 India Launch
– New XC60 will be imported as a CBU in Inscription trim initially
– XC40 is based on CMA platform while XC60 is based on SPA platform
– Volvo S40 and other models are also in the pipeline
