HEWITT HIRE LIMITED

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Exclusive images from www.autoexpress.co.uk preview the all-new hi-tech hatchback, which will feature electric drivetrain options Volvo will follow up its successful XC SUV range with an all-new V40 to rival the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series – and it’ll challenge its German rivals by offering not only a plug-in hybrid version but also a pure-electric edition. The XC40 is the first of the Swedish brand’s cars to be launched on its all-new platform architecture, called Compact Modular Architecture (CMA). But Volvo plans to quickly expand its line-up on the new chassis, with the next model expected to be a replacement for the ageing V40 hatchback. • Best hatchbacks 2017 The new V40 will look a little wider than the XC40 because, while the two cars are actually likely to feature the same width at the front axle, the newcomer’s lower roofline will give the car a more aggressive stance. As previewed by our images, the V40 will incorporate elements from the 40.2 concept, which was shown alongside the 40.1 that ultimately became the XC40. The next V40 is also likely to adopt the XC40’s wheelbase, which is usefully longer than that of the existing hatchback. That should help the new car to deliver more room in the rear, potentially making it more spacious than the rival A3 and 1 Series. The V40 is likely to have a more dynamic feel than the comfort-oriented XC40. Volvo’s head of research and development, Henrik Green, told Auto Express that CMA gives his team the flexibility to produce very different types of vehicles. “CMA is a good platform to build the SUV – the XC40 – but we can also build low, dynamic cars with it,” he said. “XC40 aims for an urban environment, giving you comfort and also the commanding view in the traffic and at junctions. But we don’t have to follow this approach with other 40-series models that are coming.” The V40’s engine line-up will include the four-cylinder D3 and D4 diesels, plus three-cylinde...