EFTM has been working its way through the Volvo range and generally we’re impressed. The Scandinavians offer great workmanship, high levels of innovative technology and that legendary fastidious approach to safety. While some way behind some of the more glamorous European offerings Volvo still produces a decent square automotive meal. But all you ever hear on Everything For The MAN, is what we blokes think. Well it’s time to break new ground, because here’s what Mrs Bowen thinks about the Volvo V40 D4 Luxury! 
My sister and I packed up the Volvo for a weekend away and there were plenty of positives to help us enjoy the ride. As can be expected, we had a LOT of stuff and the car handled it quite well. The boot was filled with two small suitcases, beach bags, several kitchen appliances, linen and other bits and pieces, and to our delight it closed quite comfortably. After a quick unload at the holiday house, the boot also handled a trip to the local supermarket and food for 4 adults and 4 children with only 2 bags on the back seat! 
Before hitting the road to Kiama on the New South Wales South Coast it was straight to the in-car navigation. It was easy to work out and we were soon on our way. We liked the fact it told us what time we would arrive, could easily divert us due to it being linked in to the latest Transport Management Centre information and also pointed out petrol stations and other services available at each motorway exit. And after experiencing several in-car navigation systems (there is a different car in our garage every week!!), I was pleasantly surprised to discover turning off the voice assistance wasn’t a hair-pulling exercise. It was also quite straight forward to connect my phone via Bluetooth. 
Amusingly we drove along saying to ourselves ‘diesel, diesel, and diesel’ to ensure we remembered to put the right fuel in the tank but you know what, we didn’t need to. We got from Windsor to Kiama and back with a quarter of a tank still up our sleeves. And randomly I really enjoyed the sound of the diesel engine. The seats were comfy and easy to adjust. I’ve become a chair snob these days so it’s lucky all the adjustors were automatic. The automatic adjustment of the side mirrors was also cool and handy. The incessant beeping when one tries to reverse though is a little irritating, especially when you’re nowhere near the driveway wall it’s fearing you’re about to hit. I’m sure this can be turned off. 
The other thing that frustrated me about the car were the windscreen wipers. Our car has automatic wipers and for the life of me I couldn’t work out how to make it happen on the Volvo. The hubby has also pointed out, even if I had worked it out, each time I got in the car, I’d have to set it up again. A little win for the Camry there. I also drove around with the back windscreen wiper going for some time before I worked out how to turn it off – but at the end of the day I’m sure that was user error. Either way the car was able to handle a sisters’ weekend away, and handle it easily.
Ins And Outs
The diesel ‘’she randomly likes’’ is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel. Generating 140kW @ 4250rpm and 400Nm @ 1750-2500rpm. The refined nature of the unit would leave those none the wiser oblivious to its diesel only diet, it behaves like a petrol unit and even sounds like one. The 0-100km/h dash is done in just 7.2 seconds. An 8-speed adaptive Geartronic automatic with Sport mode seamlessly provides for smooth acceleration.
The Tech Inside
The Sensus Connect High Performance Multimedia Infotainment system the better half is so fond of is no doubt a smooth operator. The navigation system with voice control is a breeze to use and it’s all displayed with excellent clarity via a 7’’ colour screen. Optional packages on our test car inject some serious tech with the Driver Support Pack including a Blind Spot Information System, Cross Traffic Alert, and Driver Alert System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning and Full Auto Break and finally Park Assist Pilot. I’m surprised the only annoying chimes she heard were when reversing!
Hip Pocket
The Volvo V40 D4 Luxury is hardly a budget buy, with prices kicking off from $48,490 before on roads. Extras fitted included heated front seats at $375 and the $5000 Driver Support pack. All up the V40 weighed in at $51,865 before you even look like driving off the showroom floor. Fuel economy is superb with a claimed 4.5L/100km, she sailed closer to 6.0L/100km which is still the equivalent of many Hybrid offerings.
EFTM Rubber Stamp
Hey it handled a sisters’ weekend away, and did so easily. We both agree that while probably a little too pricey especially when adding options, the Volvo V40 D4 Luxury is a thoroughly accomplished hatch, with excellent technology whilst still providing for a straightforward easy to live with day-to-day drive. We award it the EFTM Credit Rubber Stamp.
