Volvo V40 Cross Country D4 Review

The Volvo V40 Cross Country is the jacked-up crossover version of the rather good V40 hatchback. We got to grips with the diesel-powered D4 version.

Looks the part

I do like the idea of a crossover as it combines the city car dimensions with a hint of offroad ability. The Volvo V40 epitomises this perfectly as it has the same abilities as its road-going V40 sibling, but with raised ground clearance, it can mix it up on the non-tar terrain too. It definitely looks the part with its offroad outfit consisting of chunkier bumpers, sideskirts and added ground clearance. Our unit arrived in the special Misty Blue paint option, which is lovely.

Five cylinder diesel power

With the chunky offroad looks, you’d hope for a nice strong diesel too. You’d be delighted to know there’s a monster of a motor lurking under that bonnet. It’s a 2.0-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel and its on-paper performance shows promise. There’s 130 kW and 400 Nm underfoot, and this power drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Annoyingly, there’s no all-wheel drive on the top of the range diesel model – something which I find disappointing. If you’re after all-wheel drive, you can get it with the Volvo V40 Cross Country T5 petrol. Given the nature and purpose of this vehicle, I think all-wheel drive would be perfect for the D4. Another gripe is how loud the engine is. It has a proper diesel sound to it on idle, but thankfully this morphs into the delicious five-cylinder growl as you accelerate.

Economy and performance

While it’s not the quickest sprinter from standstill, the Volvo V40 Cross Country’s torque figure means in-gear acceleration is simply awesome. It gets from 60 kph to the national highway speed limit without breaking a sweat and can go onto some very high speeds. Being a diesel, it’s easy on the juice too. However, Volvo claims under 6l/100km, but as hard as we tried we couldn’t get it under 8l/100km.

Features

Our Volvo V40 Cross Country D4 came in Excel guise and had the sport pack fitted as an optional extra. The sport pack gives you a three-spoke leather steering wheel with speed dependent steering, active bi-xenon lights, headlamp cleaners, daytime running lights and adaptive digital display. That’s not to say standard specification is lacking (it isn’t) and you do get a healthy dose of cool stuff in the Volvo V40 Cross Country. I particularly liked the quality infotainment screen and steering wheel controls.

Excel specification gives you leather upholstery, auto dimming rear view mirror, Bluetooth and high performance audio system with 7″ colour display screen, cruise control, rain sensor with automatic wiper function, rear park assist, front tread plates and a power adjustable driver seat with memory function.

Ride and drive

What’s it like to drive, you ask? Lovely. On a weekend trip to the West Coast National Park with my significant other and two passengers, the Volvo V40 Cross Country was a competent and comfortable cruiser, with the added ground clearance of 40 mm proving handy on some of the uneven sections of gravel. All-wheel drive would have been a bonus and meant we could have headed on some of the tougher terrain. Boot space isn’t too generous, but two coolerboxes went in with no problem and there was room for a few other small bags. With 400 Nm on tap, overtaking slower traffic on the open road was effortless and the automatic gearbox was decently smooth.

Summary and conclusion

I’m finding the current generation of Volvo’s products difficult to fault. They’re comfortable, offer a great range of engines and the pricing is reasonable. There is the fabled Volvo safety thrown in the mix too. Aside from the lack of all-wheel drive, which its competitors have I might add, there’s very little to fault the V40. I do think the 400 Nm D4 is a little over the top, but the D3 will do nicely.

Second Opinion

The Volvo V40 remains one of the most underrated hatchbacks on the market, it’s full of stylish touches and the Cross Country brings a bit of macho image to the range. The lack of 4×4 is a loss, but this D4’s torque makes enough pulling power to tow a Land Cruiser around if you want to go off road. – Ashley Oldfield

Volvo V40 Cross Country Price in South Africa

This Volvo V40 Cross Country D4 costs R403 700, excluding the sport pack. The Volvo V40 Cross Country range starts at R343 200.

Volvo V40 Cross Country D4 quick specs

Engine	2.0-litre five cylinder turbo diesel
Power	130 kW
Torque	400 Nm
Transmission	Six-speed Automatic
Wheels	18-inch alloys
0-100km/h	8.3 seconds (claimed)
Fuel economy	5.2 l/100 km (claimed)

We like:
. Performance
. Comfort
. Styling

We dislike:
. It’s not as fuel efficient as hoped
. Engine is a bit loud
. All-wheel drive would be nice on the range-topping diesel.

Also consider:
Subaru XV
MINI Countryman
Mercedes-Benz GLA

Four-Seat Volkswagen XL1 Planned

According to a report by Autocar, Volkswagen is planning to introduce a new and larger four-seat version of its XL1 hybrid car.

More practical Volkswagen XL1 four-seat version

The new, more practical car is expected to be called the Volkswagen XL2, and is set to rival the likes of the production Honda FCEV and Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell models.

The current limited-production two-seat Volkswagen XL1?s high-tech drivetrain consists of an 800 cc (0.8-litre) two-cylinder diesel engine producing 35 kW of power, which is coupled to a 20 kW electric motor driving through a modified seven-speed DSG transmission.

The hybrid’s claim to fame was its fuel consumption number of 0.9 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 21 g/km. The car also has an all-electric range of 50 km and an overall range of 499 km.

The new car is expected to be approximately 140 kg heavier due to the added rear doors, extended centre cell, two rear bucket seats and a larger capacity battery. However, the report further says that the larger new model will retain the same fuel use figure as the VolkswagenXL1 due to aerodynamic enhancements that come from extending the length of the body of the car.

The Volkswagen XL1 isnt sold in South Africa, and Volkswagen previously stated that it has no plans to offer the car here. The car is also a contender in the 2014 World Car of the Year Awards, in the design category.

McLaren P1 GTR Debut

Slated as the best drivers car on track in the world, the McLaren P1 GTR makes a bold claim. It does have quite large backing though as it builds on from the already mental McLaren P1 with more power and improved aerodynamics.

More Power

If you happened to think that 674 kW was enough power from the standard P1, then the 736 kW that the McLaren P1 GTR offers is going to blow your mind. All the chaps at McLaren say theyve done is fiddle with the 3.8-litre V8 and twin-turbos a bit to produce even more power.

The aerodynamics of the McLaren P1 GTR have been improved to enhance downforce, borrowing parts from the GT3 race car. It has a front splitter to give the front end more grip and turn-in, radiator ducts, roof scoop and a fixed ride height.

F1 Style Wing

The coolest addition has to be the rear wing that is hydraulically operated and work like a Formula 1 DRS wing. The wing aids acceleration and then pops back up when needed to increase rear downforce again.

Below the rear wing sits the exposed, centrally mounted exhaust, which is an all new design, exclusively for the McLaren P1 GTR. Made from inconel and titanium alloy, the system maximises the aural characteristic of the higher output 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine to maintain, and further emphasise, the McLaren sound.

A set of lightweight 19-inch motorsport alloy wheels are fitted 10.5-inches wide at the front, 13-inches at the rear and are secured into place with quick-release centre locking nuts. Tyre changes are made easier through an onboard air jacking system.

How Much for a McLaren P1 GTR?

Upon purchase of a McLaren P1 GTR the owner enters into the McLaren P1 GT-R driver programme, one of the most exclusive owners clubs in the world. Each owner gets a tailored experience to improve their driving skills and theres even some racing on the cards. Not bad once youve forked out an estimated R35-million for the P1 GTR.

New Version of the Toyota FT-1 Sports Car Concept Unveiled

Following the virtual reveal of the high performance FT-1 Vision GT concept, Toyota has unveiled a new real-world version of the model.

Toyota FT-1 Sports Car fit for superheroes

In place of the vibrant red paintwork featured on the original concept, the new version of the Toyota FT-1 Sports Car concept features new graphite paintwork as well as new interior treatment with saddle tan leather elements for a more sophisticated look.

According to Selene Lee, the designer from Toyotas CALTY creative studio who proposed both FT-1 colour schemes, interior inspiration came from materials used in todays superhero costumes.

From the start of the FT-1 project, we wanted the driver to have a feeling of flow while at the wheel to be able to focus on the road and nothing else, she said.

Having decided upon a more upmarket finish, the design team compared various leathers for thickness, grain sizes and textures. Raised metal mesh and accents complete the look, providing seat ventilation and apparently lending a more textural effect that contrasts with the painted brown edges of the welded leather.

In the colour studio we help create the atmosphere of the vehicle, and our aim was to ensure everything supported the driver through efficient choices. The saddle leather maintains that same in the zone driving intention, while bringing in a more premium feeling.

From September, players of the PlayStation Gran Turismo 6 game will be able to download the latest version of the Toyota FT-1 Sports Car, alongside the original FT-1 and high performance FT-1 Vision GT.

Audi Sportscar Experience: We Drive It

Audi South Africa has launched an all-new advanced driving course package, and we were invited to see what was on offer.

Advanced driving courses are one of those things that I believe every person in possession of a driving licence should do at least once. Not only do you see how outdated and ineffective the K53 system is, but you get a proper understanding of car control and car safety systems. There’s also the added bonus of taking the certificate to your insurance company for a reduced premium.

There’s a few advanced driving courses offered by manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi. There’s also a Golf GTI course offered by Volkswagen.

The Audi Sportscar Experience is essentially a pop-up driving course. The outfit travels around the country to various racetracks and the course takes a full day. You will get to drive the Audi RS4 Avant, Audi RS 5 coupe and cabriolet and the Audi RS Q3. As an added bonus, there’s hot laps in the sensational Audi RS 7 Sportback and R8 supercar.

What do you get when you attend the Audi Sportscar Experience, you ask? A lot! Firstly you get quality time behind the wheel of Audi’s latest performance machines. The instructor has his own vehicle, meaning you’re paired up with another attendee and communicate via radio. Secondly, you learn a lot about vehicle control and safety. There’s ABS tests, emergency lane changes and you learn how to take a corner correctly.

Finally, there’s plenty of time to do hot laps and go as fast as you’re comfortable with. There’s nothing better than driving fast knowing there’s no speed traps, potholes or traffic coming the other way. If you’re a performance fan, you’re going to love this course. Audi also puts on a great spread at lunch! This is my third advanced driving course and I’m happy to say it was the most enjoyable. I think you’ll struggle to beat that price too.

Audi Sportscar Experience locations

Gauteng: Red Star Raceway (13th August -4th September)
KwaZulu – Natal: Dezzi Raceway (11th September – 17th September)
Western Cape: Franschhoek Motor Museum track (1st October – 4th October)

Audi Sportscar Experience Price

The Audi Sportscar Experience costs R3 500. All you need is to be over the age of 25, in possession of a valid driving licence, and wear flat shoes on the day. Visit the Audi Sportscar Experience microsite here.

Land Rover Freelander XS Limited Edition In SA Specs and Prices

Land Rovers Freelander is now available in a new limited edition model with XS specification.

The high-value newcomer

According to the manufacturer, the Freelander has always been equally at home in the urban jungle or on the plains of the Serengeti thanks to the combination of four-wheel-drive and Land Rovers award-winning Terrain Response system. However the addition of this new limited edition model adds both visual and practical appeal to the brands distinctive urban off-roader.

Only 32 of these Land Rover Freelander XS Limited Edition models will be available in South Africa, and will come with standout features such as a dark Atlas grille, distinctive halogen headlamps with LED and 17-inch Anthracite alloy wheels.

The model also has partial leather or Dinamica electrically-adjusted seats and central armrest with integrated storage and cup holders. There is also an optional “upgrade pack” that includes GPS navigation, automatic climate control and a 320 Watt 11-speaker Meridian audio system.

Power comes from a 2.2-litre SD4 turbodiesel engine delivering 140 kW and 420Nm of torque, and is connected to a six-speed sequential automatic transmission.

Land Rover Freelander XS Limited Edition price in South Africa

Pricing for the Land Rover Freelander XS Limited Edition sits at R512 600 including a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. For an additional R23 000 you can have the upgrade pack.

New Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA Set For A 2016 Launch

A recent report by AutoExpress has revealed that Alfa Romeo will finally reveal its high performance version of the Giulia sedan.

Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA to battle the BMW M3

The Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA model will supposedly launch late next year and is said to rival the likes of BMWs 3 Series and Mercedes-Benzs C-Class. The model is also said to feature an aggressive front bumper, a ventilated hood and hidden rear door handles. There might also be a prominent grille and distinctive alloy wheels.

Power is said to come from a Maserati-sourced twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine producing about 358-387 kW of power. It will reportedly be connected to a dual-clutch transmission which sends power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential.

The report further mentions that model will be using Alfas brand new rear-wheel-drive platform which will ensure that the Giulia is lighter than the 1 635 kg M3, thanks to the use of high-strength steels and aluminium sections.

Pictured is the 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, which will be replaced by the Giulia GTA come 2015.

Ford Ranger Odyssey Limited Edition for SA

Ford is offering up a special edition Ford Ranger bakkie to coincide with the Odyssey offroad Challenge 2014. The Ranger has been beefed up for the more rugged off-roader who might want to attempt the testing terrain in Namibia thrown up by the Odyssey Challenge. The event tests drivers over 12 days, with 13 stages, and 2500 kilometres of rough terrain.

Ford Ranger Odyssey

The Locally built Ford Ranger Odyssey will be limited to sale during mid-August through the end of September. Odyssey editions are only available in double cab and is bolstered by a snorkel, allowing drivers to cross deeper bodies of water without endangering the engine, as well as a steel bullbar to protect the front end of the vehicle, and a diff guard to protect its running gear.

Gavin Golightly, marketing manager at FMCSA said, ‘This year the general public will get a chance to drive their own Odyssey Ranger, we’ve taken the toughest Ranger on offer – the XL-Plus, built to withstand punishing mining environments – and given it a bushveld makeover.’

The Ford Ranger Odyssey also limited edition also offers a rubberised load box, black 17-inch wheels and the XL-Plus updated componentry that help it tow a load of 3500kg.

The Ford Ranger Oddysey will make use of the 2.2-litre Duratorq turbodiesel engine that delivers 110 kW and 375 Nm. Pricing for the limited edition is R415 750.

Next-Gen Land Rover Defender To Feature All New Styling

Land Rover is said to be ending production of the iconic Defender in 2015 with a brand new looking model that will be more desirable to look at.”

Out with the old in with the new

Speaking to Shropshire Star, Gerry McGovern promised the new Defender is going to focus on design since the model’s looks haven’t changed at all over the years so it “will have to wash its face.” As a result, the next-gen Land Rover Defender is going to be “more desirable to look at” with a “distinctive silhouette” and without looking “overtly functional.”

The company currently makes around 20 000 Defenders a year, however, McGovern said this number needs to increase dramatically to make the project worthwhile.

We are still making the business case, ultimately the new model will have to wash its face. We need to be looking at 100 000 vehicles a year and so we have to broaden its appeal.

The current Defender has never sold on its design and has changed very little over the years. What we are working on is something that will be more desirable to look at, he said.

Arriving in the next two years

Exact details about the next-gen Land Rover Defender are yet to be disclosed, however the model is expected to feature a bolder and more sophisticated look. Meaning it might even share the same design language with recent Land Rover models such as the complete Range Rover line-up and the 2015 Discovery.

McGovern further said the next-gen Defender will not suit traditionalists “but they’ll have to live with it. He added that the model will still be as capable as before and there will be references to the old model. It might even have a spare wheel on the back.”

Aside from the body changes, the next generation also promises to be lighter, more aerodynamic and a better value proposition.

The next-gen Land Rover Defender is expected to launch in the next two years, while the current generation is set to cease production in 2015.

Opel Mystery Model Covered up

Ahead of the 2014 Moscow Motor Show, Opel has released this teaser image of a new model they intend to uncover at the show.

Which Opel model?

Details are extremely slim but the shape of the vehicle bodes well for some sort of sporty coupe.
It could be a finished product of one of the concepts Opel released last year and judging by the slit-eyed front headlights and pronounced front bonnet line, it could well be a development of the Opel Monza Concept from September 2013.

That’s all the details we have for now, if you think you know what it is, please leave a comment below.