We already know that Ford is working hard on the next-generation Focus RS that will rival the Audi RS3 Sportback and the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG. Still, the mentioned vehicles will have a new rival as Volvo is considering a Polestar version of the V40. According to Auto Express, the V40 Polestar will use the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E engine that will power the upcoming Volvo XC90 ‘Twin Engine’ T8 Hybrid.
On the SUV, the new petrol engine is combined with an electric motor that delivers 80 hp, while the total output of the hybrid system is around 400 hp.
The 2.0-liter petrol engine is expected to develop on the V40 Polestar around 315 hp, which means it will be able to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 6.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph.
In order to handle the power of the new engine, the Volvo V40 Polestar will arrive with new chassis upgrades but also with new Brembo brakes, a front strut brace, upgraded suspension and anti roll bars.
Although the Volvo V60 Polestar is offered with all-wheel drive, it is not clear yet if the V40 Polestar will accommodate an AWD system.
Volvo already offers an AWD version of the V40 called Cross Country. The V40 Cross Country uses a Haldex system just like the C30 polestar Concept, which was unveiled back in 2010.
Volvo describes its all-new V40 as a five-door hatchback that sets a new bar in its class in terms of ride handling, fuel efficiency as well as safety. Furthermore, the new V40 offers a stunning coupe design that adopts a number of styling cues from the C30 coupe as well as from the P1800ES Volvo.
Engineers at the carmaker paid special attention to the handling and agility as well as ride comfort and steering feel, thereby allowing the vehicle to set a new benchmark in its class for dynamic fineness.
As expected, the new Volvo V40 exemplifies Volvo's leadership in terms of safety as the new vehicle features the Pedestrian Airbag Technology as well as the Pedestrian Detection (with Full Auto Brake) system that made its debut on the Volvo S60. Both of these technologies help ensure that the all-new V40 could provide unmatched protection for both passengers and pedestrians.
The new innovation Pedestrian Airbag is making its global debut on the all-new Volvo V40. As soon as the V40 detects that a pedestrian might be hit, the Pedestrian Airbag would inflate from beneath the rear edge of the hood, thereby raising the hood and in effect cushioning the impact on the pedestrian. At the same time, the airbag protects the head of the pedestrian from the "hard points" located at the base of the windscreen and the lower A-pillars.