Volvo V40 Launched in Japan | Volvo

Volvo V40

Volvo V40 Launched in Japan

The new Volvo model, the "V40," has been launched into the fiercely competitive premium compact hatchback market. It goes on sale in Japan today. OPENERS also featuresOverseas test drive review by Yasuhisa Shimoshita, andDomestic test drive review by Fumio Ogawa, so please refer to those as well.

Text by Fumihiko Suzuki (OPENERS)

Starting from ¥2.69 Million

The Volvo "V40," finally launched in Japan, is positioned as the successor to the sedan-bodied "S40" and the wagon-bodied "V50." However, it is essentially a completely new car. By adopting a hatchback form, it directly challenges rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz "A-Class",1 Series",A3",

and the Lexus "CT."

Two Grade Options

The engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine, the first for Volvo to feature a start-stop function. It produces a maximum output of 132 kW (180 hp) and a maximum torque of 240 Nm (24.5 kgm). Combined with a 6-speed dual-clutch "Powershift" transmission and a speed-sensitive electric power steering system, it achieves fuel efficiency of 16.2 km/ℓ (JC08 mode). The lineup consists of two models: the "V40 T4" (¥2.69 million) and the better-equipped "V40 T4 SE" (¥3.09 million). The Japanese market models feature the "Dynamic" chassis, which offers sportier suspension tuning than standard.

Regarding design details, OPENERS will soon publish an interview with Simon Lamarre, the exterior designer of the V40. The car features a shoulder line that sharply rises near the rear door handle, reminiscent of the "P1800ES" sports wagon produced from the 1960s to 70s, and a coupe-like wide and low form.

Inside, the V40 is the first Volvo to feature a liquid crystal monitor for the instrument panel. The display can be switched between three modes: the standard "Elegance," the fuel-efficiency-focused "ECO," and "Performance," which shows the tachometer and digital speedometer against a red background. Other features include "Interior Theatre Lighting," allowing selection from seven ambient light colors; an optional panoramic glass roof (¥180,000 on V40 T4 SE) for an open feel; and a frameless rearview mirror, all integrated into the simple and functional Scandinavian design that forms the car's overall character.

The three-person rear seat is designed with slightly offset seating positions for the center and side seats, preventing shoulders from bumping when three adults are seated. The slightly angled layout of the side seats also improves visibility.

World-Class Safety Performance

A key safety feature is the world's first pedestrian airbag, available as an optional ¥60,000 extra. Seven sensors embedded in the front bumper detect collisions with pedestrians, lift the bonnet, and deploy an airbag to prevent the pedestrian's head from striking hard structures like the A-pillar or windshield.

The "City Safety" system, which automatically avoids or mitigates rear-end collisions with vehicles ahead, is standard equipment. The operating speed difference range has been expanded from Volvo's previous 30 km/h to 50 km/h. At speeds below 15 km/h, the car stops to avoid a collision, and between 15 km/h and 50 km/h, it significantly reduces damage. A "Knee Airbag" is also standard, located under the steering column.

With the optional ¥200,000 "Safety Package," advanced safety features can be equipped. These include "Human Safety," which detects up to 10 pedestrians over 80 cm tall and automatically avoids collisions at relative speeds below 35 km/h; an evolved "BLIS (Blind Spot Information System)" that monitors blind spots up to 9.5 meters behind the car and warns of potential lane-change accidents; "Cross Traffic Alert," which detects approaching vehicles or pedestrians from the side when reversing from a parking space; and "Road Sign Information," which recognizes road signs and displays them on the instrument panel.

The package also includes familiar premium car features such as all-speed adaptive cruise control, "Lane Keeping Aid" which uses electric power steering to prevent lane departure, "Driver Alert Control" to detect driver fatigue, and "Active High Beam" which adjusts the high beam range to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic.

Additionally, the "Park Assist" system, which automatically controls steering for parallel parking, is standard on the higher-spec "V40 T4 SE" and an optional ¥30,000 extra on the "V40 T4."

The basic vehicle specifications are as follows. OPENERS also featuresV40 overseas test drive review by Yasuhisa Shimoshita, in addition todomestic test drive review by Fumio Ogawa. Please refer to those for details on driving performance and usability.

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