Volvo XC40: Can this rival the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Mercedes GLA ? [Gallery + Video]

Volvo is all set to launch the XC40 on 4th July and this SUV will rival the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA. The XC40 will be imported as CBU (completely built unit) and will only be offered in one trim, the R Design. Expected to be priced around Rs 35-40 lakh, ex-showroom, the XC40 will be fully loaded and will also get Volvo’s semi-autonomous driving tech.

We drove the car in and around Hyderabad recently and came back impressed. It is the largest among all the SUVs in the segment, stands out in terms of design, is easy to drive and comes packed with features and driver aids. Some of the segment leading features include hands-free tailgate, adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, a 9-inch touchscreen and a shift by wire gear selector among others. Here is our quick first drive video followed by a gallery.

The Volvo XC40 gets proper SUV proportions and best in class ground clearance. It also carries forward the much talked about Thor headlamps that are also seen on the bigger XC60 and XC90. The XC40 in India will get a 2.0-litre Diesel engine which is good for 190 bhp of power and 400 Nm of torque

The XC40 will initially be offered in three color options of white, blue and red.

The side profile showcases its true SUV proportions.

The Thor lamps look cool. And also act as indicators when you want them!

One version, one engine : the XC40 R-Design will get a diesel right now.

With this design, the XC40 looks better than the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA.

190 bhp / 400 Nm are good numbers and make the XC40 a good performer.

Engine comes mated to an 8-speed auto box. AWD is standard.

India XC40 gets 235/55 tyres on 18-inch wheels. These look uber cool.

Open roads are where you can use the radar-based semi-autonomous driver aids.

Launch is slated for 4th July. Bookings opened a while back.

If you want a bling looking SUV that is feature loaded and matches your lifestyle, the XC40 is a great pick!