Carpool: Volvo V40 D2 Kinetic
The cheapest new Volvo has plenty going for it, but faces tough competition from rival Germans
The price: From $34,990 plus on road and dealer costs.
Vital statistics: 1.6-litre four-cylinder diesel; 84kW/270Nm; 6-sp manual; FWD; 4.2L/100km, 110g/km CO2.
The tester: David McCowen
Why we tested it: This is the cheapest car Volvo sells in Australia; the diesel-powered, manual-only D2 hatchback. At $34,990 it forms the entry point to Volvo's new V40 range.
Likes: Low entry price and 4.2L/100km efficiency make for affordable motoring. Stylish looks and clever interior with Volvo's “floating” console give it a Scandinavian design edge over competitors. The customisable digital dashboard has separate modes for regular, frugal and fast driving, and the colour touchscreen in the centre console is loaded with tips for efficient driving. It has plenty of standard equipment too, including an electric drivers' seat, touchscreen MP3 player, alloy wheels and external night-time "puddle lamps" to help your clogs stay clean.
Dislikes: The V40 D2 is not available with an automatic transmission, though the manual shifts sweetly enough that it's rarely an issue. Maximum outputs of 84kW and 270Nm are weedy, particularly compared to the $39,990 V40 D4 with a 2.0-litre five-cylinder diesel that makes 130kW and 400Nm – or more scientifically, more grunt than Maria Sharapova. Volvo's high-tech and potentially life-saving driver support pack is not available on the D2.
Would I buy one: Maybe. Volvo builds a sharp car, but this is an increasingly competitive part of the new car market. Ideally I'd test-drive it against the BMW 1-series, new Mercedes-Benz A-Class and upcoming Audi A3 to pick a winner.