Other Volvo V40 (2012 - 2019) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It is one of a fairly small number of crossover designs combining the looks and advantages of city hatchback, family car, SUV and sporty compact car. The interior offers elegant two-tone trim. Volvo is a brand associated with solid style and practicality, and unlike many Volvos of old the new V40 is beautiful and stylish. There are few about so far, and this adds a touch of exclusivity normally unavailable in this price range.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Love it or are, at the very least, intrigued.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Definitely!

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Will not be looking for another one for a long time, thank you very much.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £28,000

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes - Volvo offered 5 year free maintenance and £500 off the road safety pack while the dealer matched the best trade-in quote on my old car. Also, living half-way between 2 Volvo dealers I benefitted from their competition.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Eco-friendly diesel engine and good looks.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very professional - Volvo dealers are clearly aspiring to the allure of Mercedes, BMW and Lexus.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Small diesel engine pulls the car well but offers only limited driving pleasure. Visibility is adequate but slightly impaired by steeply angled A pillar and small rear window. Automatic hill start is useful.

    What's it like to park?

    Good turning circle, rear distance indicator and compact dimensions make city parking easy.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    The Infotainment/SatNav system is imperfect - on a continental holiday we were unable to set the speed display to km/h and this compromised excessive speed warnings. The SatNav has been wrong on occasion and does not handle UK postcodes well.

    What's most practical about your car?

    99g/km D2 engine registered before late June benefits from 3 year exemption from Central London Congestion Charge, and from Road Tax, and when driven carefully achieves in excess of 70mpg.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The optional Road Safety pack is amazing and will protect reckless/inattentive drivers. The steering wheel starts vibrating if the driving style suggests that the driver's attention might be wandering, and in the event of an imminent collision the car will brake itself if necessary.