Volvo Car South Africa expands XC40 lineup with new B3 Essential

Entry-level XC40 brings Volvo’s signature blend of safety and Scandinavian luxury to a more accessible price point.

• Volvo Car South Africa has expanded its compact SUV range with the introduction of the new XC40 B3 Essential, broadening access to the premium Scandinavian brand.
• The XC40 B3 Essential is driven by a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 110 kW and 265 N.m, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
• Priced from R750,000, the new derivative includes a comprehensive five-year/100,000 km maintenance plan and warranty, along with five years of unlimited roadside assistance, reinforcing Volvo’s commitment to peace of mind ownership.

Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) has expanded its XC40 range with the introduction of the new B3 Essential, an entry-level derivative designed to deliver the core attributes of the award-winning compact SUV at a more accessible price point.

The reintroduction of this model, the continued focus on expanding our dealer network and the upcoming launches of the ES90 and EX60 show our commitment to Mzansi, says Grant Locke, MD of Volvo Cars South Africa.

The XC40 B3 Essential is powered by a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 110 kW and 265 N.m of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. The B3 Essential accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 10.1 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h in line with Volvo’s global safety commitment.

With a 54-litre fuel tank and a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.1 L/100 km, the XC40 B3 Essential offers an estimated driving range of approximately 760 km, making it well suited to both urban commuting and longer-distance travel.

Despite its positioning as the most attainable XC40 derivative, the B3 Essential maintains Volvo’s hallmark blend of Scandinavian design, comfort and advanced technology. Standard specification includes 18-inch five-spoke glossy silver alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and Charcoal leather upholstery. Buyers may alternatively specify Premium Grey Melange City Block Textile at no additional cost.

The newcomer also features front and rear park assist, keyless entry with a hands-free powered tailgate, and a nine-inch infotainment system with Google built-in, incorporating Google Assistant, Google Maps and access to the Google Play Store.

"The introduction of the XC40 B3 Essential allows us to welcome even more customers to the Volvo brand without compromising on the premium experience we are known for,” commented Grant Locke, Managing Director of VCSA. “It offers the safety, technology and Scandinavian design our customers expect, now at a more accessible price point. We believe it strikes the right balance between value and luxury in the compact SUV segment."

Pricing for the XC40 B3 Essential starts at R750,000. Customers can further personalise their vehicles with a selection of optional extras, including the Power Seats package (R9,200), Harman Kardon Premium sound system (R11,200), 360-degree camera (R23,700) and Pixel LED headlights (R25,400).

The R750,000 retail price includes Volvo’s five-year/100,000 km maintenance plan and warranty, as well as five years of unlimited roadside assistance. The XC40 B3 Essential is available on a to-order basis, with customers encouraged to contact their nearest Volvo dealership for further information.