First Edition has the write stuff

MY week with Volvo’s new XC40 compact SUV has been like a date that’s gone much better than you thought it would.

We’ve got on really well. For starters the XC40 understands me, quite literally, thanks to the Sensus entertainment system that is standard on all models and not just this flagship launch version, the First Edition.

It’s a sharp and clear system that’s well laid out but, annoyingly, you have to go via the screen to adjust the temperature. So I made use of the voice control system which, unlike many other similar systems, understood my commands perfectly.

Tell it to “turn the temperature up” and the climate control actually goes up a degree rather than making a phone call to my Aunt Madge.

This First Edition model is based on the R-design Pro trim level. This is the sporty XC40,

Inscription is the luxury one gloss black front grilles, a gloss and Momentum the entry level. lower front bumper and the same All three can be had in Pro spec finish on the door mirrors, skid which keeps the basic theme but plates and exhaust surrounds. adds more equipment. It also gets sportier suspension

The R-design versions have with stiffer springing and damping Volvo XC40 First Edition five-door SUV

Price: £39,905

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, 190bhp 0-62mph: 7.9sec Fuel consumption: 55.4mpg which, I thought, might be a cause for concern. Not so. Even with its stiffer suspension this car rides speed bumps and potholes surprisingly well. Presumably, the Momentum and Inscription

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