200
VOLVO V40 WAGON
COME TAKE THIS GREAT WAGON FOR A TEST DRIVE.
YOU GET ALL THE ROOM AND VERSITILITY OF A SUV, THE GAS MILAGE
OF A DISEL, AND THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPORTS CAR.
Inside, the 40 platform doesn't skimp on
Volvo's usual strong points of safety and comfort. For safety,
there are dual front airbags, side airbags (the S40/V40
uses Volvo's SIPS II side-airbag design, which is said to
provide even more protection to the chest and head) and
front seatbelts that are adjustable to match the driver's
height. The front belts are also equipped with pre-tensioners,
which tighten the belts in order to help prevent slack in
a frontal collision. The S40/V40 also has Volvo's new Whiplash
Protection System (WHIPS) seats that were introduced on
the S80 last year. These seats help prevent whiplash in
a rear-end collision. The rear seats, including the center,
are equipped with three-point belts and headrests. As you
would expect, all of these features are standard. Other
standard items include automatic climate control, heated
rearview mirrors, and an electronic security system.
Volvo has given the 40 platform a fairly taut suspension,
though comfort ultimately takes precedence over performance.
And the S40/V40's comfort is just one of the strong characteristics
that should draw interest from buyers for safety, utility
and an improved personality over most other Volvo products.
One must be careful when choosing optional equipment, however.
A full load of options can bloom the price of a V40 Wagon
to around $30,000.