Overview

Should you buy a Volvo XC40?

The Volvo XC40 might now be getting slightly long in the tooth, but it proves that age is only a number as it’s still one of the best SUVs you can buy. With a classy design inside and out, it hasn’t aged a day since it first launched in 2017 – a true testament to the brilliance of Volvo’s design.

But the XC40 is far from a one-trick pony. It’s more comfortable than the BMW X1, and has a more useful interior than the Mercedes-Benz GLA, and offers better safety performance than them both. Though there are more fun cars to drive in this class, if that’s less of a concern we highly recommend this Volvo, and little wonder it remains so popular.

What’s new?

The Volvo XC40 is now one of the oldest cars in its class, launching in 2017 and has been available with a range of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains. In 2020, the XC40 led the charge for Volvo’s electrification strategy, ditching diesel power altogether.

A plug-in hybrid was available for a time but that has come and gone, leaving a choice of two mild-hybrid petrol engines. If you want four-wheel drive, you’ll need to go fully electric with the Volvo EX40 (formerly XC40 Recharge) or head to the used market.

The XC40 has plenty of rivals. The Germans offer the most obvious competition in the shape of the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. However, there are cars such as the Range Rover Evoque and the MINI Countryman also vying for your attention in this price bracket.

The XC40’s trim structure takes a bit of understanding. It’s separated into four options called Core, Plus, Plus Pro and Ultra. On all but the Core trim, you can also choose a ‘Black Edition’ pack, bringing darkened styling and large 20-inch alloy wheels.

Volvo’s Core specification is only available on the least powerful engine and comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, rear parking sensors, a wireless smartphone charger and a 9.0-inch infotainment system with built-in Google maps.

Plus, Plus Pro and Ultimate specifications are homogenised across the XC40’s engine range. Plus models aren’t too much pricier, adding LED fog lights, all-round parking sensors, a rear-view camera and a handsfree tailgate. Inside, you get heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a heated windscreen.

Plus Pro versions add rear privacy glass, a 360-degree camera system and leather upholstery, while the Ultra versions are better equipped still, featuring 20-inch alloy and a panoramic glass sunroof. The cabin also gets a lift with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo.

Since it went on sale, we’ve driven dozens of examples, and have really got under the skin of the XC40 over the years to deliver an expert verdict. In addition, in Adam Binnie’s long-term test we put the XC40 through its paces over several months. So, over the next few pages we’ll let you know exactly what it’s like to drive, how spacious it is and what it’ll cost to run.

But is the XC40 a premium small SUV we’d actually recommend? You can find out more about how we test on Parkers via our dedicated explainer page. But in the meantime, read on to find out all you need to know.