2019 Volvo XC40 Inscription: Raising the Bar in Compact Luxury SUV Market
Swedish luxury automaker, Volvo Cars, has added a new variant to its winning lineup. As part of its ongoing transformation, the company brought forth the all-new 2019 Volvo XC40 Inscription at the New York International Auto Show. This model represents a continued commitment to design, technology, safety, and sustainability, as well as a significant step towards expansion in the ever-growing SUV market.
Stepping into the SUV Market
The introduction of the XC40 Inscription represents Volvo's first foray into offering three new SUVs, a strategic move in response to the fast-growing automotive segment. This addition complements the existing Momentum and R-Design options and is set to contribute to the company's sales and profitability. It appears Volvo is banking on the allure of choice and flexibility to resonate with customers, particularly in the North American market.
A Fresh Take on Luxury Design and Technology
The 2019 Volvo XC40 Inscription is marked by unique features that set it apart from its SUV siblings. Boasting customizable wheel sizes ranging from 18 to 21 inches, this compact luxury SUV also features distinctive skid plates, chrome side window trim and grill, integrated dual tailpipes, and model-specific exterior colors. It's clear Volvo has put a premium on exterior design, and the result is a vehicle that exudes a bold, modern aesthetic.
Inside, the XC40 Inscription presents a level of luxury rarely seen in the compact SUV market. The car is fitted with an Orrefors crystal gear shift and attractive Driftwood deco. With these touches, Volvo has seemingly achieved the delicate balance of delivering a vehicle that's both compact and luxurious.
Performance and Powertrain
The Volvo XC40 Inscription isn't just about good looks; it packs considerable power under the hood. With a 248 horsepower T5 Drive-E powertrain and all-wheel drive, this SUV is set to perform. Volvo promises a T4 Drive-E powertrain with front-wheel-drive, a more affordable option, to join the lineup in the summer. Additionally, there are plans for hybrid and pure electric versions in the future, further solidifying Volvo's commitment to electrification.
Innovations in Ownership
Not only has Volvo revamped its vehicle offering with the XC40 Inscription, but it is also rethinking how customers access their vehicles. The new ownership model, "Care by Volvo", aims to make owning a car as simple and straightforward as having a phone. This program offers a national, flat-rate monthly fee and the chance to upgrade to a new car as early as 12 months into a 24 month agreement. This innovative approach might just redefine the car ownership experience, providing customers with greater flexibility and simplicity.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of the 2019 Volvo XC40 Inscription represents a bold move by the automaker. By blending luxurious design and impressive performance with innovative technology and new ownership models, Volvo is poised to make a significant impact in the compact luxury SUV market. As always, it will be interesting to see how the market responds to these innovations and how they might shape the future of automotive design and ownership.
-Ed
2019 Volvo XC40 Inscription
