Volvo V40 1.6 T4 R-design Review: Rebel in blue

What we like:

The Rebel Blue paint work that breaks from the traditionally stoic Volvo. Excellent ride comfort and well-designed Scandinavian interior.

What we dislike:

Lukewarm performance that is at odds with its hot hatch exterior.

Despite the bright blue paintwork and aggressive styling, the R-design still shares the same T4 powerplant as in the Cross Country. The Ford derived 1.6-litre turbocharged inline four chucks out 180bhp at 5,700rpm while torque stands at 240Nm from 1,600rpm. Our test unit however receives a light Polestar tuning that adds 20bhp and 45Nm on top of the standard figures. Though, you would need to drive the standard and tuned cars back to back to notice the difference.

The car tested came with the Dynamic chassis which is more comfort bias compared to the Sport chassis. Cruising on the expressway, the suspension is supple and soaks up bumps and undulations with ease. Giving a firm but comfortable ride.

In the bends, the V40 doesn’t fare as well. On corner entry the car dips and rolls much more than its aggressive body work would suggest with understeer evident at exit. However, the steering is accurate though a little slower than we would prefer but well weighted.

Turning circle is larger than expected and would require engaging reverse when making U-turns at the junction.

Brakes are excellent with progressive pedal feel. It works in conjunction with the standard City Safety system that works up to 50kmh. This allows the V40 to completely avoid accidents at low speeds and reduce the severity of accidents at higher speeds.

Gear change from the six-speed Powershift dual clutch transmission was smooth though it remains a mystery why steering mounted paddle shifters are still missing.

While on the outside the V40 R-design looks the part of a hot hatch, its performance is lukewarm at best. It is obvious that this Scandinavian hatch is geared towards customers looking for a sporty exterior without the compromise on driving comfort. For that, the V40 R-design is perfectly suited.

However, sportier drivers would much prefer the hotter T5 variant coupled with the Sport chassis. Unfortunately, there are currently no plans to bring in the more powerful variant till the market improves.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline