It took Volvo
a while before it joined in on the niche hatchback bandwagon. The automaker seemed satisfied with offering the driving public three-door coupes and small sedans instead. The introduction of the five-door V40 Volvo hatchback changed all that.
It turns out it was a smart decision for the car brand. Consumers now had an alternative to the popular and sensible Volkswagen Golf. The V40 manages to stand out from its German rival even without the extra dazzle of the BMW-1 Series or Audi A3. The safe and sturdy V40 hatchback earns its space in an industry segment catering to the young or the young-at-heart.
The V40 debuts as Volvo's newest hatchback
Volvo's vision for the 40 series changed and progressed throughout the years. In 1995, the S40/V40 saloon eventually morphed into the V50 compact wagon, according to Autoevolution
. But it was only in 2012 that the V40 moniker resurfaced with Volvo's introduction of the reimagined five-door hatchback. Before the V40, there were three other hatchbacks made by Volvo: the 360, 440, and C30. However, the V40 is the only Volvo hatchback that is still in production today. For a time, the C30 and V40 were offered alongside each other, the 360 and 440 being ‘80s models that had been discontinued. However, this was short lived, as the C30 stopped being manufactured in 2013, leaving the V40 the last man standing.
The V40 Volvo hatchback certainly packs a punch in the hatchback market. It looks as good as it drives, with a sporty appeal other hatchbacks seem to lack. It combines its rounded shapes and smooth line design with enough efficiency to notice. The V40 is larger than most hatchbacks, featuring the family-friendly space of a station wagon along with the classic character of a sedan.
Under the hood, the V40's Ford Focus-like platform benefits from some well-tuned tweaking of its dampers and springs. The result is a comfortable ride and an easy handling experience drivers prefer.
What makes this hatchback stand out from the rest?
With its frameless rearview mirror, quality leather contouring seats, and other design touches, the V40 Volvo hatchback seems to keep occupant comfort in mind. Top Gear
notes that the blending of Volvo's signature warm design with an extra spacious layout is a win all the way around. The optional TFT instrument pack display has a digital layout similar to the Range Rover. Volvo added a pedestrian airbag to the V40 as an extra safety feature.
The V40 Volvo hatchback compact car is simply fun to drive. It offers both turbocharged Ecoboost engines as well as diesel engine options. The four-cylinder V40 D3 diesel averages an amazing 60.1 mpg and is the greenest in the Volvo V40 lineup.
Why you should buy a V40 Volvo hatchback of your own
MORE: Volvo Will No Longer Sell The V90 Wagon in the US
It makes sense that the V40 was one of Volvo's best-selling models in the U.K. between 2012 and 2019. It was the brand's most affordable car at the time and can still be purchased at a reasonable price. The Volvo C30, 440, and 360 are no longer being produced, but finding a used one in good condition might be an automotive coup you won't regret.
All the V40 Volvo hatchbacks come well-equipped with standard climate control, multifunction steering wheels, and Bluetooth. The entry-level ES is impressive in itself. The posher trims offer even more luxury with plenty of upgrading options to consider. The V40 Volvo hatchback is well-made, stylish, and competitively priced with enduring mass-market appeal.
Consumers can expect to pay between $28,000 up to $40,000 for a new V40 Volvo hatchback depending on the trim you choose. Buying one of these classy family cars may be one of the best driving decisions you make.
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