Featuring a Stiffened Chassis and Exclusive Interior/Exterior

Volvo is interesting. This is because they thoroughly pursue a "permutation and combination" approach to their model lineup. One could say it's a consumer-centric approach. The V40 D4 R-Design is a recent highlight. It combines three key elements—a compact body, an economical diesel engine, and enjoyable handling—into a single vehicle.

The V40 D4 R-Design was launched in Japan in December 2015. The popular four-door hatchback V40 was first equipped with a 2-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine in June 2015. The R-Design, paired with this engine, is a sporty specification characterized by a stiffened chassis and exclusive interior and exterior features.

Sporty specifications have long been popular in the Japanese market. This is evident in the lineups of German cars: Mercedes has its AMG Edition, BMW its M Sport, and Audi its S line. Volvo's R-Design also has a considerable history.

"Volvo's diesel engines are characterized by their sportiness along with fuel efficiency. This model, which leverages that character, has no rivals in the Japanese market." This is what Volvo Car Japan's PR proudly states about this R-Design tuned model.

Above all, R-Design signifies the inclusion of a "sport chassis." Volvo actually offers three types of chassis: the "Touring Chassis," the "Dynamic Chassis," and the "Sport Chassis," which has been added for the V40 D4 R-Design.

The core of the sport chassis is its sports suspension. The spring rigidity is 10% higher at the front and 7% higher at the rear compared to the dynamic chassis. The dampers are also exclusive. Notably, the rear suspension uses monotube dampers to improve tracking over the road surface. Both front and rear have been stiffened, and the bump stops have also been reinforced.

An optional "Polestar Performance Package" (¥188,000) is also available for the V40 D4 R-Design. Its key feature is engine ROM tuning. Power output is increased by 7.4kW (10ps) and torque by 40Nm. Volvo Car Japan explains that the focus was on enhancing power in the mid-range engine speeds.

Polestar is a tuning manufacturer based in Gothenburg, Sweden, the same city as Volvo. Its official name is "Polestar Racing," and its main business is building racing vehicles. Volvo and Polestar have been partners in racing since the latter's establishment in 1996. In recent years, Polestar has contributed to enhancing Volvo's sporty image, with sporty Polestar editions offered for models like the S60 and V60.

The V40 D4 R-Design was a car that made you ask, "Is this really a diesel?"

A Rotary Feel Like a Gasoline Engine

The V40 D4 R-Design looks quite sharp in person. The chrome accents add to its presence. The red test car, in particular, looked energetic from the outset. The seats have a sculpted design, offering excellent visual appeal and actual support.

Exterior features include a uniquely designed bumper, large-diameter tailpipes, a front grille framed in silk metal finish, and matching rearview mirrors and window trim.

The "D4" in the car's name has meaning. As you might guess, "D" stands for diesel, while "4" indicates its position within Volvo's 2-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine lineup. The current top-tier is the D5, but the D4 is also quite capable, with a maximum output of 140kW (190ps) and 400Nm of torque.

These figures are not just numbers. You realize this as soon as you start driving. The maximum torque is available from 1750rpm in the standard model (in the Polestar Performance Package-equipped model tested here, it's 440Nm at 1750-2250rpm), and you can feel the strong acceleration from a standstill. Furthermore, the torque in the mid-range, from 1350 to 3500rpm, is set to be 50Nm higher than in the standard specification.

Subjectively, you feel a powerful pull from the car once the engine speed exceeds 1500rpm. Moreover, the "D4" diesel engine revs smoothly, much like a gasoline engine. The characteristic diesel knock is barely noticeable inside the cabin.

The car's character becomes clear when cornering. As you turn the steering wheel, the car navigates the curve with a stable posture. Volvo's strength lies in its ability to provide a sense of security over long distances (in my personal opinion). The sport chassis delivers solid handling, seemingly enhancing this advantage.

In terms of stability, it also pairs well with the D4 diesel engine's broad torque band. Furthermore, the onboard fuel economy meter shows over 15 km/liter. In many respects, it's an excellent partner for long journeys.

The transmission has a trick that enhances the V40 D4 R-Design's appeal.

A Unique Weapon

The V40 D4 R-Design is enjoyable even when driven normally. However, there's a way to have even more fun: a trick with the shift lever. Move the selector for the 8-speed automatic transmission to the left, and it enters Sport mode. The engine speed is adjusted to utilize more of the available torque. With a satisfying 'pop,' the engine revs up, and the shift timing is delayed, allowing you to fully enjoy the ample torque.

The V40 D4 R-Design has a stiffer suspension due to its sport chassis. It might be a bit questionable as a family car. The V40's rear seats are already somewhat tight, and the packaging prioritizes the front seats. Viewed from another angle, the V40 D4 R-Design, which bills itself as a "premium short wagon," can be seen as a model that fully leverages the V40's character. For those who want to enjoy their car personally, accepting both its strengths and weaknesses, this is the perfect choice.

The "floating center stack," a hallmark of Volvo cars, features a ripple pattern on its surface, reminiscent of the "Côtes de Genève" (Geneva waves) found in high-end watches. Additionally, blue accent stripes, evoking racing cars, have been added.

The V40 D4 R-Design, sold in a limited edition of 200 units, comes equipped with a panoramic sunroof (glass inlay), premium sound audio system, Park Assist Pilot (parallel parking assist system), pedestrian airbag, keyless drive, and features equivalent to the "Leather Package." The manufacturer's genuine "Polestar Performance Package" (featuring dedicated software and emblems) will be offered free of charge to purchasers for a limited period from January 3rd to January 11th, 2016.

What are its rivals? In terms of body style, the Volkswagen Golf has rivals like the GTI (from ¥3.89 million) and R (from ¥5.39 million). In terms of driving enjoyment, the BMW 118i M Sport (¥3.64 million) is also a strong contender. The V40 D4 R-Design retains Volvo's traditional value of security. Its acceleration, driven by torque far exceeding that of ordinary diesel engines, and its fuel efficiency are unique strengths. It possesses weapons that no other car has. This is the power of permutation and combination.

VOLVO V40 D4 R-Design
Body Dimensions: Length 4,370 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,440 mm
Wheelbase: 2,645 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,545 / 1,535 mm
Ground Clearance: 135 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,550 kg
Engine: 1,968 cc Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection Diesel DOHC Intercooled Turbocharger
Max Output: 140 kW (190 ps) / 4,250 rpm
Max Torque: 400 Nm (40.8 kgm) / 1,750-2,500 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain: FF
Suspension Front/Rear: MacPherson Strut / Multi-link
Tires Front/Rear: 225/40R18
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode): 20.0 km/ℓ
Price: ¥4,590,000
Sales Volume: Limited to 200 units