Diesel delights
With more diesel models coming on the market, Samuel Ee drives a hatchback, sedan and van with turbodiesel engines
ONE interesting response to the re-classification of COE Category A has been the proliferation of turbodiesels. The diesel engine typically offers low power with high torque, making it ideal for meeting the government's engine output limit of 97 kW or 130 hp for cars below 1,600 cc.
One of these models is the Volvo V40 Cross Country D2. The Volvo V40 Cross Country is already familiar here in T4 trim, with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 180 hp and 240 Nm.
The D2 version, however, has a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel with 115 hp. But it is able to muster up an eye-popping 270 Nm of torque to send to the front wheels through the six-speed Powershift dual-clutch transmission.
But from the zero to 100 kmh acceleration time of 12.1 seconds, it is clear that the V40 D2 isn't as brisk as the V40 T4 (8.5 seconds). Where the D2's beefy torque plays a critical role is in in-gear acceleration, like when you're cruising and suddenly decide to overtake. Floor the D2's throttle and the diesel impresses with its strength.
At the same time, another diesel attribute is its excellent mileage. Even with all that oomph, Volvo claims the V40 D2 requires only 4.1 km per 100 km under the combined cycle, or an amazing 24.4 km per litre. So with its 52-litre fuel tank, technically that means it is possible to drive from Singapore to Penang and back without refuelling - perfect for those concerned about the quality of diesel fuel across the Causeway.
For all its advantages, the V40 D2 does have its quirks. For one, there is the usual diesel clatter, although this is not obvious from inside the car with the windows up. Another is that under hard acceleration from stationary, the dual-clutch automatic transmission hesitates slightly with each gear change, resulting in a slight jerkiness, especially in Sport mode. It is smoother if the twin-clutch gearbox is shifted manually using the gear lever.
Another is that while the compact five-door hatchback is sleek and stylish, there are aspects which require updating, such as the small centre monitor with its limited display info, and the (three) windshield washer nozzles on the bonnet.
But otherwise, the V40 Cross Country D2 is a cool hatch. The Cross Country rides 40 mm higher than a standard V40, with sportier overtones such as contrasting front and rear bumpers and vertical daytime running lights. Optional 19-inch glossy black wheels make it look even spiffier and surprisingly does not compromise the ride comfort.
The D2 comes with Volvo's so-called Dynamic chassis as standard, which provides a very nice balance between sporty handling and a comfortable ride.
A host of Volvo safety features are also standard, such as City Safety automatic braking, Lane Keeping Aid, Driver Alert Control that detects tired drivers, and Road Sign Information. Together with a CEVS rebate of $15,000, this Volvo diesel is a suitably upscale Cat A alternative.
SPECS
Volvo V40 Cross Country D2
Engine 1,560cc turbodiesel
Transmission 6-speed dual-clutch
Max power 115 hp @ 3,600 rpm
Max torque 270 Nm @ 1,750-2,500 rpm
0-100 kmh 12.1 secs
Top speed 190 kmh
CO2 emissions 108 g/km
Average OMV $32,000
Price $149,888 (with COE)
Distributor Wearnes Automotive
Tel 6473 1488
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