When Volvo decided to ditch the estate cars and exclusively sell SUVs, it wasn’t long before the Swedish manufacturer caved to popular demand for the return of its estates. And it’s just as well Volvo saw sense—because the XC40 is set to stay a major seller for many years to come.
Equipment, options and extras
The XC40’s entry-level Core trim brings 18in alloy wheels, keyless start, cruise control, LED headlights, heated front seats, rear parking sensors, a powered tailgate and dual-zone climate control. However, our pick of the trims is the Plus: for not much extra you’ll enjoy keyless entry, blind spot monitoring and a heated steering wheel. There’s also the range-topping Luxurious Ultra, with 19in wheels, sunroof, tinted rear windows and Harman Kardon sound system—although it’s slightly too pricey for us to recommend.
Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2
As premium family SUVs go, the Volvo XC40 comes with a favourable price tag, and what’s more it’s predicted to hold its value well—although admittedly not quite as well as its rival the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque. The XC40’s slow depreciation also means it comes with unusually competitive PCP deals.
Turning to engines, the B3 is the XC40’s least powerful, but that belies the fact it’s still a turbocharged 2L. The B3 therefore yields a respectable fuel economy. But if you’re looking for the most cost-effective version, check out the EX40. Company car drivers paying BIK tax will be especially interested in this fully electric model, which was previously known as the XC40 Recharge.
Safety and security
Euro NCAP awarded the XC40 a full five stars for safety, including for its advanced automatic emergency braking system which recognises not only cars but also cyclists, pedestrians and large animals. The XC40 also brings traffic sign recognition and Volvo’s Oncoming Lane Mitigation, which intervenes if you cross the centre of the road into the path of oncoming vehicles. There’s also blind spot monitoring and rear–cross-traffic alert. Plus the top-spec Luxurious Ultra comes with Volvo’s Pilot Assist, which can steer, brake, and accelerate at moments of need—just remember your hands must always remain on the wheel.
It’s worth noting that the XC40’s competitor the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque also gained five stars from Euro NCAP, although it’s hard to compare the two as the XC40 was tested in 2018 under a less stringent system.
Reliability
The XC40 comes with a 3-year, 60,000-mile warranty, which includes roadside assistance as standard. There’s also a 3-year paintwork warranty and 12-year antirust warranty. Both are standard among premium family SUVs.
The Car Planet verdict
The Volvo XC40’s combination of capaciousness, a stellar interior and fantastic safety features make it one of the most popular cars in its class. For best value for money, we recommend the B3 petrol engine and mid-spec Plus trim.
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