Volvo XC40

Volvo XC40 (2018 – present) | Expert Rating

Summary

The Volvo XC40 is a small SUV/crossover, and the first generation of its kind from Volvo. It has won several awards, including European Car of the Year in 2018.

Based on 39 different reviews from the UK motoring media that we have analysed to date, the XC40 sits at the top of the premium small SUV class with an Expert Rating of 79%. It has also received numerous awards from around the world, including the 2018 European Car of the Year.

The XC40 range is available with either a petrol engine or plug-in hybrid powertrain. A diesel engine was previously offered but has been dropped, while a fully-electric version called the XC40 Recharge joined the range in early 2021. We have a separate page for that model. Confusingly, the ‘Recharge’ name is also used for the plug-in hybrid versions.

The Volvo XC40 has received particular praise for its build quality, refinement, styling and extremely high safety standards. The main criticisms have related to its fairly average driving dynamics and an underpowered entry-level T3 petrol engine.

In a 2020 What Car? survey of the 50 most reliable cars in the UK up to eight years old, the petrol-engined versions of the Volvo XC40 ranked 22nd, while diesel versions ranked equal 39th.

Key specifications

Body style: Compact SUV/crossoverEngines: petrol, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £25,855 on-road

Launched: Winter 2017/18Last updated: Summer 2020
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Media reviews

Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert

Model reviewed: XC40 Recharge T5 plug-in hybrid“The Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 is a very likeable thing. From the moment you silently set off in electric mode, it’s clear that refinement was high on the agenda for the plug-in hybrid model, and it succeeds for the most part.”
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Score: 8.2 / 10“It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find aspects of modern Volvos to criticise – each is a step forward in comfort, practicality, style, economy, performance and particularly safety.”
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Auto Express

Model reviewed: Score: 9 / 10“The Volvo XC40 is a strong contender in the market for small premium SUVs. It’s not a revelation on the road, but it strikes a decent blend of comfort and cruising refinement, and offers premium SUV appeal in a small-car package.”
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Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 9 / 10“The Volvo XC40 is a comfortable and stylish small SUV that has some pleasing practical touches and a lot of Swedish cool.”
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Auto Trader

Model reviewed: T5 plug-in hybridScore: 8 / 10“The small SUV sector is one of the hottest in the market and packed with talented players. The Volvo XC40 is among the more appealing too, thanks to its stylish design inside and out, quality feel and plug-in hybrid running costs. It’s not the cheapest of its type but you arguably get what you pay for.”
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Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“The Volvo XC40 is one of the most appealing compact SUVs we can think of, thanks to a practical cabin full of clever features, exemplary safety credentials and wealth of standard equipment. It’s far from cheap, but neither are the XC40’s key rivals and it’s worthy match for any of them.”
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Autocar

Model reviewed: T5 plug-in hybrid“Our first impression is that the new powertrain makes a strong package even more compelling. It keeps everything that ensures the Volvo XC40 remains one of our favourite small SUVs, and adds a compelling new powertrain option.”
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Model reviewed: T5 AWD R Design ProScore: 8 / 10“The change in character brought about by the Polestar optimisations isn’t quite a Jekyll and Hyde transformation, stopping short of turning the Volvo XC40 into a true driver’s car but adding a level of engagement that was previously missing from the otherwise sedate SUV.”
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Score: 9 / 10“Just as the XC40 plainly isn’t short of visual appeal, though, so it isn’t short of quality, richness, refinement, dynamic ability and performance. Right now, premium-level compact SUV cash could hardly be better spent.”
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Model reviewed: T4 AWD automatic MomentumScore: 8 / 10“Where the T3-engined XC40 left us feeling a touch underwhelmed, the T4 unit feels well-suited to the smallest of Volvo SUVs. Its willingness to pull means overtaking needn’t be a nerve-wracking process, while its generally quiet and calm demeanour should make it well-suited to extended stints on the motorway.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol manual T3 Momentum ProScore: 6 / 10“Volvo’s first three-pot motor and standard suspension settings aren’t so flattering in a car that’s markedly better to drive in other forms.”
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Business Car

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol automatic T5Score: 7 / 10“The entry-level petrol engine in the Volvo XC40 range might only have three cylinders, but it has plenty of go despite its size.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel manual D3 Momentum Pro“For casual town driving and motorway cruising, the Volvo XC40 D3 is pretty flawless, with a supple suspension, road-domineering high-riding position and loads of safety kit for peace of mind, from emergency autonomous braking to lane keep assist – which are thrown in as standard.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic T5 First EditionScore: 8 / 10“The T5 is certainly fun, but the Volvo XC40 is a good car no matter which engine it comes with, so the cost-conscious will surely default to the less powerful engines.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic MomentumScore: 8 / 10“Although entry-level, the Momentum trim is highly specced as standard. In fact, there is a huge selection of standard specifications that would otherwise feature as options on competitors.”
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Car Keys

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 RechargeScore: 8 / 10“The Volvo XC40 Recharge is a very appealing thing, with the refinement and comfort of this model especially shining through thanks to the silence that can be achieved in electric driving. If the batteries are topped up, it will also be rather cheap to run.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic T4Score: 9 / 10“The Volvo XC40 continues to tick all of the boxes buyers of an entry-level premium SUV — its effortless to drive, looks smart and delivers plenty of equipment at a reasonable cost.”
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Carbuyer

Score: 8.2 / 10“The Volvo XC40 is a stylish small SUV that comes loaded with safety equipment and feels upmarket, but it’s only average to drive.”
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Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 9 / 10“The Volvo XC40 is a spacious small SUV with smart styling and a comfortable drive. Some of the interior trims aren’t quite up to scratch and you might find the infotainment system fiddly.”
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Company Car Today

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 Recharge Inscription Pro“It’s a pricey option, but our 2020 Compact Premium SUV of the Year is a high-quality and good-looking vehicle that is now available in its most tax-efficient form.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic D4 R-Design ProScore: 8.3 / 10“A car without any considerable weakness, the Volvo XC40 is an appealing alternative to the existing premium models at the forefront of the sector.”
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Daily Mail

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 Recharge R-Design“I drove the upmarket ‘R-Design’, which accounts for about 30 per cent of sales. It’s civilised, especially when gliding around feeling smug in pure mode, with sufficient oomph in hybrid mode on motorways.”
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Eurekar

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid Inscription“As well as being comfortable, passengers also travel in some style in the XC40 – particularly with the high-grade Inscription spec of our test car. Volvo is now firmly established as a premium brand and interior quality is a match for anything the German brands which dominate the sector can offer.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic B5 Inscription Pro“Anyone looking for a high-performance Volvo XC40 will be impressed by the acceleration time of the latest B5 AWD R-design Pro version. But a glance at the car’s top speed on the spec sheet might leave them thinking it’s a misprint. From now on its 112 mph, no matter which model Volvo you buy.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid T5 R-Design Pro“The plug-in Volvo XC40 is another outstanding addition to the company’s portfolio. It looks impressive, is packed with technology and delivers on the performance front too, making it quite the all-rounder. And those low emissions will result in plenty of tax benefits too.”
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Green Car Guide

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 RechargeScore: 8 / 10“The Volvo XC40 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 offers chunky SUV styling, all the refinement and comfort of a Volvo, and an electric driving range of 26-28 miles.”
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Honest John

Score: 10 / 10“Inside and out, the XC40 is refreshingly different yet achingly on-trend, and is about the best car in its class, which is saying something given that it includes rivals like the BMW X2, Range Rover Evoque, Jaguar E-Pace and Audi Q3. It’s even a pleasure to drive and, provided you stay away from the options list, makes sense financially.”
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Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 9 / 10“A near-faultless take on the compact SUV recipe”
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Motors.co.uk

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 9 / 10“With excellent build quality throughout and a range of high-end materials used, the Volvo XC40 feels every bit a premium SUV, with buyers also given the option to inject some extra flair into their cars with a range of coloured carpets and mats to choose from.”
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Parkers

Model reviewed: Range reviewScore: 8.6 / 10“Popular family SUV is easy to like”
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The Sun

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 Recharge“We are Swede on the XC40 T5, but your economic forecasts need to ensure you get the benefits of that electric running before you splash the cash.”
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“The XC40 packs a significant wallop and has an elegant exterior, which offers a pleasant driving experience.”
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Model reviewed: R-Design“The XC40 has all the brilliant qualities from the XC60 and XC90 but possesses something much more edgy, personalised and sleek.”
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The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: XC40 D4 2.0-litre diesel automatic AWD R-DesignScore: 8 / 10“Premium small SUV with a Swedish sense of style.”
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The Telegraph

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 RechargeScore: 8 / 10“If you’re buying privately, the Volvo XC40 T5 Recharge is comparatively well priced for what it is; indeed, you won’t find a plug-in hybrid with this combination of pace, class and quality for less. That you pay no practicality penalty compared with the standard car is the icing on the cake.”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol automatic T3 R-DesignScore: 10 / 10“Volvo knocked it out of the park with the XC40, and this newly upgraded T3 only enhances its smallest SUV further. It looks great, feels terrific and drives brilliantly, even in this R-Design form. Want a compact, comfortable, upmarket SUV? Then look no further.”
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Model reviewed: D4 AWD R Design automaticScore: 8 / 10“If you can live without a sporty driving experience there’s little not to like about the Volvo XC40. It is roomy, very comfortable, thoughtfully designed and powered by a good range of engines. In fact, we’d go so far as to say it’s one the most desirable SUVs on sale.”
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Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“Volvo has made something nicely distinctive here. It’d be impressive even if they’d been practising for years.”
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What Car?

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 10 / 10“The Volvo XC40 blends generous passenger space and a practical boot with a quality interior and top-notch safety. That means you aren’t only buying a hugely desirable product, but one backed up with real substance.”
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Which?

Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T5 Twin Engine“The addition of the Volvo XC40 Twin Engine to the Volvo family allows the Swedish manufacturer to boast at least one plug-in hybrid version of all models. This particular version offers a spacious, good looking interior, coupled with the high levels of safety equipment which buyers have come to expect from Volvo.”
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“A practical dose of Swedish cool.”
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Safety rating

Overall rating: 5 stars
Date tested: July 2018

97%

ADULT OCCUPANT

87%

CHILD OCCUPANT

71%

VULNERABLE ROAD USERS

76%

SAFETY ASSIST

Read full Euro NCAP review

More safety recognition

Eco rating

Model tested: T5 2.0 4×4 Auto
Date tested: March 2019

6.8 / 10

CLEAN AIR INDEX

2.3 / 10

ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX

Read full Green NCAP review

The petrol-engined Volvo XC40 T5 was tested by Green NCAP in 2019, and the score above relates only to that engine.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Volvo XC40 has received

2022

• What Car? Awards – Best Family SUV

2021

• The Car Expert Awards – Small SUV Class Champion
• What Car? Awards – Best Family SUV
• Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Premium Crossover
• Fleet World Awards – Best Medium SUV
• What Car? EV Awards – Best Hybrid Small SUV

2020

• Auto Express Driver Power – Best Premium Small SUV
• Business Motoring Awards – Best Hybrid
• Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Premium Crossover

2019

• Business Car Awards – Best Compact SUV
• Honest John Awards – Car of the Year + Best Premium Crossover
• UK Car of the Year Awards – Best Small Hatch
• What Car? Awards – Best Family SUV
• News UK Motor Awards – Small SUV/Crossover of the Year
• Fleet News Awards – New Company Car of the Year
• Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Premium Crossover
• Motor Trader Awards – New Car of the Year
• Towcar of the Year Awards – Overall winner + Winner, Caravan Weight 1,350 – 1,500kg category

2018

• European Car of the Year
• Car of the Year Japan
• What Car? Awards – Car of the Year + Best Family SUV
• Auto Express Awards – Best Small Premium SUV
• Autocar Awards – Game Changer
• BBC Top Gear Magazine Awards – Best Sensible SUV
• DieselCar and EcoCar Top 50 Awards – Car of the Year + Best Medium SUV
• BusinessCar Awards – New Company Car of the Year + Best Compact SUV
• Women’s World Car of the Year – Supreme Winner
• Tow Car Awards – Best Family SUV
• Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year – Winner, Caravan Weight 1,350 – 1,500kg category

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Volvo XC40, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Audi Q3 | BMW X1 | BMW X2 | DS 3 Crossback | Jaguar E-Pace | Lexus UX | Mercedes-Benz GLA | Range Rover Evoque

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