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Why I bought the Volvo XC40 as my 1st luxury car: Purchase experience

8th August 2023, 17:33 by Rahul Nagaraj

I wanted an SUV that offered excellent value for money in the luxury segment.

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THE BACKGROUND

Owning a luxury car is often an unattainable dream for someone from a humble background, especially in India where high inflation and arbitrary tax increases make it difficult for middle-class individuals to save enough to afford and maintain a luxury car. However, I am proud to own a VOLVO XC40 B4 Petrol Electric Hybrid (Bright Dusk colour), defying these odds.

THE JOURNEY

Acquiring this car has been far from easy. It required immense perseverance, sacrifices, and hard work, but the feeling of finally achieving this goal is indescribably sweet.

THE HUNT

When I made the decision to own a luxury brand vehicle, I had specific requirements in mind. I wanted an SUV with good ground clearance and a clear view of the road. I also wanted a car that offered excellent value for money in the luxury segment.

The following vehicles were considered:

BMW X1 2023 model: Initially, I chose the BMW X1, the updated model launched on January 28, 2023. I booked the Diesel M Sport version for INR 47.9 lakhs (ex-showroom) in Metallic Silver. However, concerns arose about the engine's power, which seemed subdued for a BMW. Despite a test drive that proved adequate for city drives, I felt it might struggle with challenging terrains. Moreover, the chosen colour became unavailable until June/July, and BMW raised the price to INR 50.90 lakhs (ex-showroom) without offering price protection. Unable to convince the dealer, I cancelled my booking.
Mercedes Benz GLA: Visiting Akshaya Motors on Mysore Road, I found their display lacking the GLA model. The minimal features, such as the absence of a rear seat armrest, dissuaded me from considering this well-known luxury brand.
Audi Q3/Sportsback: Though I researched Audi extensively, the provided features did not justify the asking price, leading me to reject this option.
Kia EV6: While the Kia EV6 offered great value for money, futuristic looks, and ample features, I couldn't fully embrace the era of electric vehicles and decided against it.
Volvo XC40 Recharge: The Volvo XC40 Recharge stood out as the best value-for-money luxury electric vehicle in India. However, due to the aforementioned reasons, I ultimately dropped this choice.
Volvo XC40 Petrol Hybrid: Surprisingly, the Volvo XC40 Petrol Hybrid wasn't initially at the top of my list. However, upon closer inspection and a test drive, I changed my opinion. Undoubtedly, it is the most feature-packed, safest, and value-for-money car in its segment, surpassing the competition in the luxury market. It offers almost every luxury feature one could desire, though it lacks ventilated and massage seats. Despite the slightly upright rear seat, it is not a deal-breaker. Importantly, BMW X1, GLA, and Audi lack ADAS level 2, 360-degree camera, and reverse park assist, which the 2024 model of India-specific Volvo XC40 has, making it a pioneer in these features. Therefore, I promptly booked the car, planning to coincide its delivery with my daughter's birthday, choosing the bright dusk exterior with charcoal interiors.

THE EXPERIENCE

So, I conducted a preliminary PDI at the Volvo service centre/stockyard on Sarjapur Road on 22nd July. The vehicle had arrived that morning, and as I glanced at it, I was pleasantly surprised to see the inclusion of a 360-degree camera in this model. Upon inquiry, the stock manager informed me that this is the latest MY 24 model, which comes with cosmetic changes as well as a 360-degree camera. How fortunate I was to receive this additional feature at no extra cost! Feeling overjoyed, I enjoyed a delightful meal at a nearby cafe before eagerly returning home in anticipation of the D day.

On 27th July 2023, my better half & my little one got dressed up and took an Ola cab to the showroom at 11 am. I informed the Volvo team that I desired an Instagram reel with a professional edit, and they were happy to arrange it. Additionally, they provided a lovely cake for my little one, who was delighted and proud to celebrate her birthday with the Volvo team.

Formalities were completed pretty quickly, with no hassles, the quick demo was given, and we all were ready for the unveil, all while the photographer from Volvo was busy capturing our candid moments.