Volvo XC40

It's funny how sometimes brands start the house from the roof. Volvo was one of the first to join the SUV trend, its first model was the Volvo XC90, reaping great commercial success. However, the largest number of sales is focused on the smallest segments, and that is where the Volvo XC40, for a long time the smallest of the Swedish house's SUV family.

We have tested this car:

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Its commercial launch was late if we compare it with other rival models. The XC40 goes on the market in 2017 to position itself as the smallest of the house, just below the Volvo XC60. Obviously this is the first generation of the model, as there is no precedent to rely on.

Throughout these years it has earned a more than well-deserved reputation for quality, comfort and durability. It has won numerous awards for its design and has come to be named as car of the year 2018 at European level. In 2020, it introduces a 100% electric version called Volvo XC40 Recharge. In 2023 the range is updated and in early 2024 the electric model changes its name to adapt to the brand's new identification system. From then on it was called Volvo EX40, making it clear that it was placed above the new Volvo EX30.

Technical characteristics of the Volvo XC40

For over a decade Volvo it is integrated within the conglomerate of the Chinese manufacturer Geely. This allows Swedish engineers access to one of the largest parts warehouses in the world. Under the elegant bodywork of the XC40 hides the CMA platform (Compact Modular Architecture) shared with the Chinese company, the same that we will soon see in models from the firm Lynk & Co.

The Volvo XC40 was the first to release it, adapting the correct measurements for itself to place it in the compact segment. 4,42 meters long, 1,86 meters wide and 1,65 meters high. To these dimensions must be added a wheelbase of 2,7 meters. Enough battle for a maximum of five passengers to fit inside.

The second row shows adequate legroom and headroom. A fifth occupant will be somewhat narrow due to a smaller square and a notable transmission tunnel. In terms of cargo volume, The trunk of the Volvo XC40 announces a minimum capacity of 450 liters and a maximum volume of 1.336 liters capacity. The 100% electric model reduces the minimum capacity to 441 liters.

Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Volvo XC40

When equipping the XC40, Volvo has had a wide and varied mechanical range. It should be noted that Volvo has long completely ruled out diesel engines, focusing exclusively on gasoline blocks and electrified versions. Currently the range is made up of a unit gasoline, two MHEV versions and three 100% electric models. They offer between 238 and 408 horsepower with ranges of up to 574 kilometers in the WLTP cycle thanks to battery packs of between 66 and 79 kWh net capacity.

The access version is the XC40 T2. It mounts a block of three cylinders and 1.477 cubic centimeters that develops 129 horsepower and 245 Nm of torque. It is the only unit in the family that does not have an MHEV system with an ECO label. From there we jump to the electrified models with the ECO label and a two-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. First we find the XC40 B3 that develops 163 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque. Above is the XC40 B4 with 197 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. All units come standard with an automatic transmission.

Equipment of the Volvo XC40

From doors to inside the Volvo XC40 shows the typical characteristics of all models of the Swedish house. Sobriety and quality are the attributes that best define him. The materials used raise the feeling of quality and comfort for all passengers, positioning themselves above rival models within the category. To this environment we must add a lot of technology.

As usual in the house, The range of equipment of the XC40 shows various levels or steps, and they are: Essential, Core, Plus and Ultra. In each of them, not only the available standard equipment is altered, but also the exterior appearance and the range of available engines. All of them show a high perceived quality.

As for equipment, as is typical for Volvo, much of it focuses on improving the safety of all occupants. It has a wide range of safety systems and driving assistants. To them must be added elements such as full LED headlights, digital instrument cluster, 9-inch touch panel multimedia system, automatic climate control, browser and much more, including of course the latest connectivity for mobile devices.

Test of the Volvo XC40 in video

The Volvo XC40 according to Euro NCAP

Volvo has always had a special fixation with safety. The XC40 takes all that philosophy and applies it in a set of state-of-the-art systems. In 2018 Euro NCAP put the compact SUV to the test, after the tests it was certified as a five-star model. The results by sections are: 9,7 in adult passenger protection, 8,7 in child passenger protection and 7,1 in pedestrian safety. Finally, in operation of driving assistants, the score obtained is 7,6 out of 10. All ratings are still valid in the 2023 model as no changes were made to the structure of the vehicle.

The Volvo XC40 of Km 0 and second hand

Despite its many qualities, the XC40 is not the most popular of the premium C-SUVs on the market. Throughout these years it has conquered a discreet but correct market share. Despite this, it is still a model appreciated by buyers. Many of them are diverted to secondary sales channels due to the high cost of new models. In those markets we see that the depreciation value is moderate, although slightly higher than that of rival models.

If we take a look at the used and second-hand market, we see that the cheapest units date from the beginning of their marketing stage, mainly 2018. Prices start at figures close to 26.000 euros, although in its favor the low mileage of many of the units present stands out. The Km 0 channel is also wide, with prices slightly lower than those offered at dealerships for new factory models.

Volvo XC40 rivals

Volvo XC40 Premium SUV

When it comes to rivalries, the Volvo XC40 does not have to stand up to many models, but they are especially important in terms of name and popularity. The most direct rivals are: Listen Q3, BMW X1, Range Rover Evoque y Mercedes GLA. All four are natural enemies both by segment and premium consideration. The Volvo stands out from them by presenting a different appearance and a slightly higher quality. All of them are also rivals for price, higher than the general market.

Highlight

internal quality
ride comfort
Exterior design

To improve

Price
dynamic behavior
Few customization options

Volvo XC40 prices

The consideration of a premium model does not only imply a higher quality, but also a higher cost of sale. The starting price of the Volvo XC40 is 42.600 euros, without offers or promotions. This value corresponds to an Xc40 T2 with Essential finish. The EX40, a 100% electric model, is available in a price range between 46.600 and 60.838 euros, without offers or promotions.