Find out what inspires the designers of the upcoming Volvo XC40!



Following the unscheduled spy short release of the new Volvo XC40, it is said that Volvo’s new offering will come with dozens of exterior and interior colour combinations, with a focus of providing customers the option to implement their own preference and individuality in Volvo Cars’ first ever entry in the small premium SUV segment.

The 2018 XC40 as previewed last year bestows designers the freedom to inject vibrancy, individuality and playfulness – elements of which Volvo Cars’ see as lacking in the small premium SUV segment. It will offer a broader and more playful colour palette, making it the most expressive model in Volvo’s portfolio – to reflect the outgoing personalities of its drivers.

“We wanted the XC40 to be a fresh, creative and distinctive member of the Volvo line-up, allowing its drivers to put their personality in their driveway. XC40 drivers are interested in fashion, design and popular culture, and often live in large, vibrant cities. They want a car that reflects their personality. The XC40 is that car,” said Chief Designer Office at Volvo Cars, Thomas Ingenlath.

Customer research for the XC40 and its segment has shown that wider selection of colours and materials are needed from what was usually offered. As such, the design of the new XC40 would be from scratch with emphasis to project energy and playfulness.

The sources of inspiration for the XC40 is derived from street fashion, city architecture, high-end designer goods and pop culture, a focal point of Volvo’s design team when deciding on materials, pattern and colour options.

“We took inspiration for the XC40 colour and materials from many different sources, mixing them and putting them back together into something cohesive. What we created is a car with a tough attitude that feels fresh, energetic and confident,” said Ebba Maria Thunberg, Vice President Colour & Materials at Volvo Cars.

Solid, monochromatic theme, to dual compositions in vivid complexions are among the broad selection of colours that are self-expressive while the interior colour choices of warm Lava Orange carpets, Oxide Red upholstery and a range of new trims and materials are owed to urban architecture and cartography. Sure to deliver a modern touch, the interior will also see natural, felt-based carpets, headliner and door insert applications to deliver a truly youth and premium feel.

“Our Momentum trim level is the most fashion-oriented of the line-up, with vivid exterior colour combinations, while the R-Design and Inscription trim levels reflect a more dynamic and premium feel,” added Ebba Maria Thunberg.