2018 Volvo XC40 spy pics

A production version of Volvo’s XC40 crossover has been spotted testing in Sweden.

The Volvo XC40 is based on the concept of the same name which was revealed at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, though the production model doesn’t appear to be as streamlined.

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The XC40 is part of Volvo's range overhaul and SUV expansion and is set to take on the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1and Audi Q3.

Volvo’s head of research and development, Peter Mertens, said the XC40 will be the first of the new 40-series which will include an S40 small sedan and C40 hatch.

While it will be Volvo’s smallest SUV, expect it to be big on features including high-end interior design and advanced driver assist technology.

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Mertens says Volvo will focus on a high riding position and a large boot for increased practicality so it’s more than just a high-riding hatch.

Volvo hasn’t revealed drivetrain details although expect it to feature engines from its current 4-cylinder petrol and diesel range along with a three-cylinder turbo entry-level unit and a plugin hybrid for the T5 variant.

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A full electric drivetrain giving the XC40 a range of 350 kilometres is in the pipeline, too, but won’t be available before 2020.

The XC40 is scheduled to make its debut at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show in April, though it’s not expected to roll into showrooms until later in the year in Europe and early 2018 here.

Based on its rivals, expect the XC40 to come with a base price tag of around $40,000.