Volvo has trimmed down the XC40’s engine range massively over the years, ditching even the plug-in hybrids in 2023. Now, you have a choice of two mild-hybrid petrol engines, and the pure electric XC40 Recharge we review elsewhere on this site.

Petrol engines

The mild-hybrid petrol engines are both based on the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit. The cheapest B3 model produces 163hp and 265Nm of torque, which Volvo says is enough to get the XC40 from 0–62mph in 8.6 seconds. It feels plenty on the road given the XC40’s relaxed nature and you rarely want for more poke.

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Above that, there’s the B4. This option produces 197hp and 300Nm of torque – and that extra grunt cuts the XC40’s 0–62mph time down to 7.6 seconds. You also get your towing capacity for a braked trailer upped from 1600kg to 2000kg. Both engines send drive to the front wheels via seven-speed automatic gearbox that’s smooth and inoffensive, if not particularly quick witted if you accelerate hard.

What’s it like to drive?

• Comfort-oriented suspension
• Safe, stable and predictable handling
• Not particularly engaging to drive

Volvo champions safety above all else – and the XC40’s handling reflects this. It’s a predictable and stable car that doesn’t really like to be driven hard. The tyres aren’t as grippy as sportier rivals with the nose washing wide earlier than you might expect in the wet. You don’t have to push too hard to trigger the stability control, and there’s also a bit of body roll to put you off driving quickly, too.

The XC40 is at its happiest when cruising within the limits of its safety parameters. You can hustle it down a country lane if you want, but it won’t be a particularly enjoyable experience if you’re really hammering it. Even by the standards of the class, the steering is particularly mute giving no indication of when the front tyres are slipping wide. If you want fun, you’re better of with a BMW X1

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It’s refreshing that the Volvo XC40’s chassis is geared completely towards comfort, and it manages to remain refined on its large alloy wheels. The standard 18-inch wheels are great, but we were impressed how well isolated the cabin remains with Volvo’s optional 19-inch and 20-inch alloys. Volvo also tuned the XC40’s high-speed ride well, which makes the car an accomplished long-distance cruiser.

Bumps and potholes are noticeable when driving around town, although the jolt they produce isn’t enough to stop the XC40 from leading the class in ride quality. Impressively, it doesn’t wallow over undulations striking a good balance between control and comfort.