To many, Volvos are well-conceived fit-for-purpose vehicles which might be additionally very secure. However there have been a couple of fascinating and classy examples, such because the P1800, 480 ES and C30 Coupé, which have bucked this stereotype, albeit on the expense of practicality. Nonetheless, the present XC40 is a really handsome SUV that manages to fulfill each standards, and a used one could be yours for a good low cost in contrast with new costs.
There was a shift in direction of electrification with the XC40, however we’re going to concentrate on the common petrol and diesel engines as a result of that’s what you’re almost definitely to search out. Petrols include a 2.0-litre in 154bhp T3, 187bhp T4 and 244bhp T5 types. A downsized three-cylinder 1.5 arrived in 2018 as a direct alternative for the prevailing 2.0 T3 (upgraded in 2019 to 161bhp).
There are additionally 2.0-litre diesels (now not on sale new): a 148bhp D3 and 187bhp D4. A rubbery-feeling six-speed guide got here as normal on T3 and D3, however the optionally available eight-speed computerized is the higher selection and can also be normal situation on the D4, T4 and T5.
Trims begin with Momentum, which has cruise management, dualzone local weather management, a 9.0in pill touchscreen, 18in alloy wheels, LED headlights and rear parking sensors. Subsequent up is the sportier R-Design, with firmer suspension, seats trimmed with nubuck, power-folding door mirrors, privateness glass and ambient inside lighting. The extra luxurious Inscription tops the vary and has an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, entrance parking sensors, an electrical tailgate, wooden trim inlays and a crystal gear selector on auto variations.
Trims with ‘Professional’ on the finish of the title add adaptive LED headlights, heated entrance seats, an electrically adjustable passenger seat and 19in or 20in alloy wheels.
On the street, the XC40 is a clean and hushed performer, and most engines present greater than sufficient oomph. Fling it by way of a sequence of bends and the XC40 reveals itself as competent, though not inspiring, and it typically stays composed over street ripples.
Inside, you’ll discover a wonderful driving place and the usual digital devices are straightforward to learn. Nonetheless, you do need to entry numerous features by way of the infotainment touchscreen.
General, it’s an aesthetic atmosphere, with plush-feeling supplies and a way of robustness to the controls. There’s loads of area up entrance, and rear passengers have sufficient leg and head room, though rivals such because the BMW X1 and Volkswagen Tiguan supply barely extra. The identical goes for the boot
As a result of the XC40 is fascinating, you’ll want not less than £22,000 for an early T3 petrol or D3 diesel. Purpose to spend £26,000 to get our most popular R-Design trim with a D3 diesel.
Have to know
On paper, probably the most economical XC40 is the diesel 2.0 D3, with an official mixed 47.1mpg. The extra highly effective D4 will get shut, with 44.1mpg. Probably the most environment friendly petrol is the 40.4mpg T3, whereas the T4 (35.3mpg) and T5 (34.0mpg) petrols are the thirstiest.
