Buyer’s guide to the Volvo XC40

Buyer’s guide to the Volvo XC40

If you’re looking at buying Volvo’s latest addition to its SUV line-up, the XC40, here’s our guide to what it has to offer.

Earlier this year, Volvo introduced the XC40 to its line-up and with it came a youthful and stylish design that was inspired by the other fresh-faced from the Swedish manufacturer.

With premium rivals available that can give the Volvo a run for its money, we take a look at the XC40 and see why you should be considering the compact model as your next car.

2018 Volvo XC40

What engines are available?

To ensure that customers have a wide selection of options to choose from, the XC40 can be fitted with two diesel units and three petrol engines – with a fourth coming in 2019. The D3 and D4 diesels produce 148bhp and 188bhp respectively, while the petrol T3, T4 and T5 units produce 154bhp, 188bhp and 244bhp.

Each engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission, while all options bar the T3 petrol can be paired to all-wheel drive for improved grip and control in all conditions.

How many trim levels are offered?

Volvo offers the XC40 in three standard trim levels – Momentum, Inscription and R Design – but the Swedish manufacturer also provides a Pro upgrade to each specification to add extra features. For the base Momentum trim, Volvo fits 18-inch alloy wheels, integrated roof rails, silver skid plates, the Park Assist rear system that is displayed on the nine-inch Sensus infotainment screen, textile upholstery, a leather steering wheel, satellite navigation and Volvo’s On Call service.

Customers can also choose to fit a contrasting roof, LED foglights, electric folding door mirrors and leather upholstery, while models further up the ladder get larger alloys, a higher end finish and more tech – such as active headlights.

See Available XC40 Deals
2018 Volvo XC40

What safety equipment is fitted?

As you would expect from safety pioneers Volvo, the XC40 is available with a wide range of safety systems that ensure both occupant and pedestrian safety is one of the best around. Adaptive cruise control helps reduce fatigue on long journeys, while oncoming lane mitigation, intersection braking, rear collision warning, run-off road mitigation, lane keeping aid and blind spot information can all combine to make the XC40 the safest compact SUV on sale. Add to that the park assist pilot, and your XC40 can even park itself.

How much customisation is there?

Thanks to the three main trim levels, option to fit a contrasting roof and wide selection of body colours, Volvo gives customers plenty of options to make their XC40 stand out from the crowd. Interior trim selections are also plentiful, with both cloth and leather options available in a wide range of colours, including lava orange.

2018 Volvo XC40

How much does the XC40 cost?

As you would expect from a premium brand like Volvo, prices aren’t the cheapest, but considering the amount of standard equipment, the starting price of £27,610 isn’t too bad when compared to rivals. R-Design models start from £29,460, while the Inscription range has a starting point of £30,110.