THE VOLVO XC40 SACRED "CAR OF THE YEAR 2018"

For the first time the Swedish brand, now owned by the Chinese group Geely, on the highest step of the podium For the first time in forty years the model is dedicated a "premium"

Until then, this prize, awarded by journalists from twenty-two countries, was de facto the preserve of generalist manufacturers. The last premium model that won was the Porsche 928 in 1978.

The Volvo, the second car-of-the-year SUV, was ahead of competitors in the race, far ahead of the Seat Ibiza, the BMW 5 Series, the Kia Stinger, the Citroën C3 Aircross

and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

The XC40 takes place on the fast-growing market of so-called "compact" SUVs and presents itself as an alternative to German "premiums" . In addition to a typical Volvo style and interior design, inspired by the "Scandinavian" style , the XC40 offers surprising driving qualities and a surprising level of comfort. There is no lack of this model in terms of technology, including autonomous driving.

The XC40 is the first model based on Volvo Cars' new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, which will power all future 40-series models, especially 100% electric vehicles. Developed in collaboration with Geely, the CMA platform enables Volvo Cars to achieve the necessary economies of scale in this segment.

The XC40 is also the first Volvo vehicle to feature Car Sharing, powered by Volvo's digital key technology and connected service platform, Volvo On Call

The XC40 is a modern, urban SUV that leans more towards SUVs than higher station wagons.

"This award from our new XC40 is very timely," said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars. "For the first time in its history, Volvo offers a range of three SUVs worldwide. As a future growth engine, the XC40 opens the doors for the new, dynamic segment of compact SUVs. "

An international award that once again marks the weight of compact SUVs on traditional sedans, which have been losing ground for several years.