Should I Buy an Imported or Domestically Produced Volvo XC40?
3 Answers
Volvo XC40 is domestically produced. On August 2, 2018, the Volvo XC40 was officially launched. Initially, the vehicle was sold in China as an import, with the imported models produced at Volvo's Ghent factory in Belgium. Later, it was also manufactured domestically at Geely's Luqiao factory. More details are as follows:1. The XC40 is a compact SUV under Volvo, equipped with three engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, a low-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and a high-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.2. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, codenamed B3154T2, has a maximum power of 120 kW, a maximum torque of 265 Nm, a maximum power speed of 5500 rpm, and a maximum torque speed ranging from 1500 to 3000 rpm. This engine features direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.3. The low-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, codenamed B4204T47, delivers a maximum power of 140 kW, a maximum torque of 300 Nm, a maximum power speed of 4700 rpm, and a maximum torque speed ranging from 1400 to 4000 rpm. This engine also features direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.4. The high-power 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, codenamed B4204T18, produces a maximum power of 185 kW, a maximum torque of 350 Nm, a maximum power speed of 5500 rpm, and a maximum torque speed ranging from 1800 to 4800 rpm. This engine is equipped with direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.
I'm quite qualified to talk about the Volvo XC40, as I recently helped a friend research it. The domestic version has particularly obvious price advantages, with official guide prices being 50,000 to 80,000 RMB cheaper than the imported version, while offering much richer configurations. The most impressive aspect is the space adjustment - the domestic version adds 30mm more legroom in the rear seats. However, the authentic Nordic craftsmanship of the imported version is truly impeccable, with more uniform body panel gaps and thicker, higher-quality genuine leather seats. I recommend prioritizing the domestic version because Volvo's Asia-Pacific factory now implements global unified standards, with safety test scores identical to Europe's. Moreover, there's better 4S dealership coverage for maintenance, and shorter parts waiting times. Only choose the imported version if your budget is particularly ample - otherwise, the price difference could cover three years' worth of fuel costs.
Having driven both the imported version and test-driven the domestically produced XC40, the difference in handling experience is smaller than expected. The throttle response of the domestic version is more sensitive, making it easier to start in urban traffic jams, and the steering assistance feels lighter. However, the imported version offers a more solid chassis feel during high-speed cornering, with more refined shock absorption on bumpy roads. In terms of core configurations, both cars are equipped with the same T4 engine, and even the seat belts come from the same production line. The main differences lie in the grade of the air filter and the choice of small component suppliers. In my opinion, if you care about driving details, go for the imported version; otherwise, the domestic version is completely sufficient, and the price difference is enough to add a bunch of practical configurations.
