Volvo is expanding the new XC40 lineup a bit with a top-level Inscription trim, a new three-cylinder engine, and a six-speed manual transmission. Although only that first item will make it to the States for now, we are likely to see the three-cylinder engine used in an upcoming plug-in hybrid version of the XC40 that is meant for the U.S. market.
The Inscription trim, as it does on other Volvo models, will sit above the XC40’s Momentum and R-Design trim levels as the most luxurious version of the crossover. Its exterior features chrome trim for the side window opening and grille, along with specific color options and skid plates. Inside, it comes standard with a crystal shift knob and the same Driftwood trim offered in the XC60.

As far as the new engine, the turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder offers up 154 hp and a stout 195 lb-ft of torque and wears a T3 designation. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission are the only choices for now, but Volvo says an automatic will be added later. The XC40 T3 won’t be offered in the United States?our XC40 will arrive in dealerships in March as a 248-hp four-cylinder T5, with a 180-hp four-cylinder T4 to come soon?but Volvo says that the three-cylinder will be used in a plug-in hybrid Twin Engine version of the XC40, which we are slated to get later.
Driven: 2019 Volvo XC40
Tested: 2018 Volvo XC60 Inscription
Volvo XC40 Research: Reviews, Specs, Pricing, and More

Pricing isn’t available for the XC...