Volvo is targeting the BMW X1 with this new V40 Cross Country, which will go on sale next month.

Based on Volvo’s new five-door hatch, the V40 XC features a 173mm ride height — a 40mm increase over the standard V40’s. It also has a beefed-up appearance characterised by an alloy-style body kit. A black honeycomb grille and the option of 19-inch wheels on top-spec models are also new.

Despite its off-road pretensions, the V40 XC line-up will have only one all-wheel-drive model: a 250bhp, 295lb ft 2.5-litre T5 petrol available with a six-speed automatic gearbox. A 1.6-litre petrol and three diesels make up the rest of the range.

The V40 XC is tipped to carry a £2000 premium over a equivalent V40 hatch, suggesting a starting price 
of about £22k.