In search of design perfection: Volvo India launches R-Design variant of its XC40 compact SUV

Volvo India is out with the R-Design variant of its compact SUV, namely the XC40.

Volvo XC40 R-Design

Incidentally, this the first SUV in the Volvo lineup in India to get a BS-VI compliant engine.

With the introduction of this engine, Volvo has also announced that they will be discontinuing the diesel version as part of their strategy to move away from diesel engines in the future.

As a product, the car has received accolades for the way it looks.

It is a stunning machine that boasts of fine attention to detail and looks extremely proportionate.

A head-turner for sure, this SUV has made inroads in the Indian market and with the new engine, we do expect to see even more of them around.

Powering the XC40 R-Design is the T4 turbo petrol motor that displaces 1,969 cc and churns out a solid 190 PS of power and 300 Nm of peak torque.

The engine is paired with Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission that is quick to shift between gears.

This gives you a rather linear feeling as you pull away.

Both the engine and gearbox showcase a high level of refinement and to add to the drive experience, the manufacturer is offering the XC40 R-Design with four drive modes to choose from that change the way the car reacts — allowing you to choose a mode that suits your current driving conditions.

A comfortable SUV that is just right for our cities, the XC40 is also a joy to take on a cruise down a stretch of open highway.

It is flawless in terms of overall ride and handling dynamics and does a good job of holding its line.