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The Volvo XC40 is a serious competitor in the premium compact SUV market. It’s not a reveal on the road, but it does strike a fine blend of comfort and flying refinement, while delivering premium SUV appeal in a small package. This allows passengers to enjoy the fun, minimalist cabin and capable infotainment system.
Factor in competitive pricing when compared to the competition, as well as Volvo’s tradition of focus on safety, and you’re on your way to one of the most compelling offerings on the market. That’s why we named the XC40 Premium Small SUV of the Year in our 2018 New Car Awards.
About Volvo XC40
Introduced in 2017, Volvo XC40 is a mid-sized premium SUV focuses on practicality and comfort while offering bold styling that sets itself apart from more conservative rivals. Its excellent safety ratings and inbuilt suite of active safety systems will also attract customers.
In terms of size and price, the XC40 falls into the Volvo SUV segment below XC60 and XC90and is offered in Core, Plus and Ultimate editions.
There’s also a similar engine range, and the XC40 gets the latest ‘B’ mild-hybrid from its larger brothers. You can also buy Dip into the mixture and fully electric versions. Volvo aims to roll out one all-electric car each year, as it seeks to make all-electric cars account for 50% of global sales by 2025, with the rest being hybrids. Recharge will be the collective name for all rechargeable Volvos with all-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
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Volvo XC40 rivals include BMW X1 and X2 duo, Jaguar E-Pace, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Range Rover Evoque, Audi Q2 and Q3 and Mini Countryman.
Where does the XC40 stand out with its fresh looks. The chunky lines define it as an SUV, but its compact size means it’s no more manageable than a compact hatchback.
Inside, the XC40 focuses on style, with a design-led interior that uses digital displays and quality materials to create a luxury cabin that can be upgraded with a variety of personalization options. Power comes from a range of three- and four-cylinder petrol engines, along with B-badged mild-hybrid petrol versions.
The range started with the 161bhp petrol codenamed B3, then the 194bhp B4, while the 247bhp four-cylinder B5 is no longer available. The B3 is front-wheel drive and all versions get an eight-speed automatic as standard, while the B4 is offered with front- or all-wheel drive.
The 208bhp Recharge T5 and 258bhp Recharge T5 plug-in hybrids combine front-wheel drive and automatic transmission, while Volvo has also introduced Pure electric XC40 P8 models with all-wheel drive and 402bhp, along with a 228bhp All-Electric Single Engine version.
Volvo previously combined the basic Start trim with a lower-power 1.5-litre T2 petrol engine to create a single entry-level model, but this is no longer the case. There are currently three main trim levels – Core, Plus, and Ultimate, offering a plethora of sets as standard.
The Core model is well-served, despite having a substantial asking price of around £35,000. Vehicles equipped with dual-zone climate control system, 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, electric starter, automatic folding door mirrors, cruise control and digital equipment. Also on board is Volvo’s excellent vertical 9-inch infotainment system.
Plus, add extra kit like a rearview camera, keyless entry, a hands-free boot, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and even a heated windshield.
The Ultimate is the top-of-the-range XC40, bringing a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive Pixel LED headlights, and a 360-degree camera view.
For an alternative review of Volvo XC40, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk…
