Volvo V40 gets entry-level diesel auto

Volvo will introduce a handful of updates to its 2014 model year V40 hatch, including voice-activated Spotify audio streaming, a new 1.6-litre petrol engine and an automatic transmission variant of its entry-level D2 turbo-diesel.

The updated V40 models will be available in the UK from April and are likely to arrive in Australia late 2013 if they come here at all.

The adoption of an automatic transmission on the D2 turbo-diesel engine, which is claimed to use just 3.9L/100km, will be of significant interest to Australian buyers, and will also be offered with V40 Cross Country models, the latter having been confirmed for Australia but with no timing as yet.

At present the 84kW/270Nm 1.6-litre Volvo V40 D2 ($34,990) is the most affordable V40 in Australia, but is only offered with a manual, limiting its appeal.

Volvo will also add a new 1.6-litre 88kW/240Nm petrol engine to the V40 range, dubbed the T2. The direct-injected turbo-petrol engine uses just 5.3 litres of fuel per 100km travelled when paired to a manual gearbox.

Volvo Australia says it's too early to comment on whether the updated powertrains will be offered locally considering the V40 has only just arrived here.

Changes to the Volvo V40's infotainment systems round out the 2014 model year changes, including the adoption of voice-controlled audio streaming via Spotify. Currently Holden is leading the charge with in-car music streaming via its MyLink system available on Barina and Cruze, making use of Pandora and Stitcher apps to stream Internet audio. However it does not yet have voice activation functionality.

"The voice-activated Spotify is a unique, new feature. You can find the track you want just by saying its name. The voice-activated system works on all music sources connected to the Sensus Connected Touch," says Doug Speck, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Group.

As part of Volvo's Sensus Connected Touch system, drivers will also have "full Internet browsing" once the car is paired with a compatible 3G/4G smartphone or dongle (which also becomes a WiFi hotspot that can be used by everyone in the car).

Volvo has also created a world-first "infrared, beam-scanned touch screen" that is operable even when wearing gloves.

Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...