The Original Volvo V40->ke4155 debuted in 1995 overseas as the wagon version of Volvo's S40->ke410 sedan. It wasn't until the 2000 model year that the V40 and S40 made it to American shores. The original V40 lasted only through the 2004 model year before Volvo discontinued it. In 2012 reintroduced the V40 to Europe but failed to bring it to the States. Finally in 2013, the V40 was the recipient of a slightly higher ride height, larger wheels and tires and protective body cladding, and the V40 Cross Country was born. As we head toward the 2015 calendar year, the European market is replacing the V40 Cross Country's 2.5-liter T5 engine with a smaller, more fuel-efficient four-cylinder.

Whether Volvo->ke188 decides to ever release the new V40 in the U.S. remains to be seen, but it is a possibility. This is especially true when you consider the fact that the Automaker is working toward sharing platforms across its range, which would lessen the blow of bringing a slower-selling crossover wagon->ke143 to the U.S.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013-2015 Volvo V40 Cross Country.

2013 - 2015 Volvo V40 Cross Country

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 - 2015 Volvo V40 Cross Country
  • Engine/Motor: inline-5
  • Horsepower: 254
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The new V40 Cross Country is obviously based on the standard model, but features a number of elements that will differentiate it from its standard counterpart. For starters, it is about 40 mm higher than the standard V40 for that crossover look. It is further distinguished by a new front end with a dark, contrasting bumper, a honeycomb mesh grille, and upright DRL-lights. There is also an anodized, black high-gloss frame around the greenhouse, black rear-view mirror housings, and sleek rails floating over the roof. Towards the back of the Cross Country, there is a contrasting rear bumper with an integrated skid plate. The model sits on a new set of 19" light alloy wheels.

New for 2015

- Power Blue exterior color

- 19" Damara alloy wheel with grey diamond-cut rims

Interior

For the interior, the new Cross Country has received enough room for five passengers and comfort is derived from the leather upholstery, which can be ordered in five different colors, including Espresso Brown. The rear seats can be folded to increase cargo space and the front passenger seat can also be folded down to fit longer objects in the vehicle. The Volvo also comes with a Parcel Shelf Net for the storage of smaller items and a Load Organizer that includes a load compartment divider, a load belt, and two floor rails.

The storage continues with what Volvo is calling "smart storage." This consists of a storage compartment below the armrest that is great for CDs and the connector for a USB/iPod, the extra space in the glove compartment for two drinks - cans or bottles -that can be kept cool with cold air from the Electronic Climate Control system, and a specially designed, drained storage unit for an ice scraper in both front door panels for those cold, wintry months.

Additional Storage:

-Height adjustable headrests on the front seats and the center rear seat

-A sunglass compartment above the driver's door

-A penholder in the glove compartment

-Integrated cup holder in the rear seat

-Handy storage under the instrument panel, on the front seat cushions, on the front seat backrests, and on the outside of the rear seats

Interior lighting was also a point of interest for Volvo, evident in the "theatre lighting" feel of the cabin which was accomplished with the use of strategically placed LED lamps. The driver can enjoy a red-to-blue setting that adapts the light to the interior temperature, or choose between another seven mood themes. There are also reading lights in the front and rear that can be dimmed.

Technology for the Volvo V40 Cross Country comes in the form of the Start/Stop system, Bluetooth hands-free communication, wireless music playing, City Safety auto-braking technology, and the V40's world-first pedestrian airbag, all which come standard. The V40 Cross Country is also the only car in its class to be available with Pedestrian Detection technology.

"There is a clear distinction between our XC and Cross Country models. The Volvo XC models have a distinct crossover character with unique body-styles including an elevated seating position, while the Cross Country models are expressive all-road versions of our dynamic wagons and hatchbacks," explains Lex Kerssemakers. He adds: "When it comes to driving dynamics, the V40 Cross Country is eager to take on the sportiest competitor versions. It features an attractive blend of sportiness and comfort."

New for 2015

- Updated on-board infotainment and navigation system, Sensus Connect

Engine

Customers will have the possibility to choose between both petrol or diesel engines for the Volvo V40 Cross Country. The most powerful model in the line-up is the T5. It will be offered with either a 2.5 liter five-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 254 HP or a 2.0 liter five-cylinder engine with 213 HP. The 254 HP five-cylinder engine can hit 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, while providing a fuel consumption of 34 mpg (EU Combined). The next model is the T4 which is offered with either a 1.6 liter GTDi engine producing 180 HP or a 2.0 liter engine delivering 180 HP. Fuel consumption is 51 mpg with corresponding CO2 emissions of 129 g/km. The T5 will be offered with a six-speed automatic gearbox, while the T4 will be offered with either an automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.

Diesel fans will also get their choice of engine with a five-cylinder 2.0-litre D4 turbodiesel with 177 HP or a 2.0-litre D3 producing 150 hp, each mated to either a six-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual gearbox. Customers interested in their vehicle's fuel consumption can opt for the D2 version which is powered by a 1.6-liter diesel engine that delivers a total of 115 HP and an impressive fuel consumption of just 3.8 l/100 km.

New for 2015

For late 2014 and into the 2015 model year, the V40 Cross Country receives a new engine, specifically a Drive-E powertrain that pumps out 245 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Mating to this engine is a new eight-speed auto transmission that replaces the old six-speed unit. With this new drivetrain, expect to see increased fuel efficiency and a drop in CO2 emissions to 149 grams per km.

Prices

The new Volvo V40 Cross Country will go on sale in November 2012. Volvo hopes to sell around 17,000 units per year, with 50% going to European customers and 30% going to Chinese buyers.

Prices will be announced at a later date.

Competition

BMW X1

The BMW X1 received an update for the 2013 model year with an improved interior and a new engine lineup. the range includes including the X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, and the X1 xDrive35i, with power ranging from 240 to 300 HP.