Volvo XC40 T4 Momentum

COMPACT SUV: Exudes a forceful character.

COMPACT SUV: Exudes a forceful character.

Volvo’s XC40 is the company’s first compact SUV and is described as ‘perfect for youthful people who want a car which reflects their personality.’

Slotted in beneath the larger XC60 and XC90 models in Volvo’s range, the XC40 is priced from €31,884 (£28,965) and comes with two or four-wheel drive, manual or auto gearboxes, petrol and diesel engines and also a plug-in hybrid version.

My test model was a T4 in entry level Momentum trim costing €36,750 (£33,385) with a potent 2.0-litre petrol engine and eight-speed auto transmission. This combination delivers a 0-100 kph time of  8.1 seconds and top speed of 209 kph (130 mph). Average fuel economy is 12.4 kpl (35.1 mpg) and emissions are 154 g/km.

On the road, the XC40 performs impeccably with smooth effortless  power delivery from its eager 190 hp engine and with precise and intuitive steering feedback.

Its multi-link rear axle and coil springs help provide exceptional grip and well-balanced ride control.

Standard equipment is generous and includes sat-nav, connectivity  features, climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors and multiple drive modes. Safety features include pedestrian, cycle and animal detection, auto emergency braking and lane-keep assistance.

My test model also had the Volvo Pro options pack which included extra kit including active bending headlights, larger alloy wheels and powered and heated drivers seat which took the total price to €39,662 (£36,010).

Rivals in this sector include the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 and BMW X1 but I feel that visually, the XC40 has a more imposing presence than most in the class and it exudes a more forceful character.

It offers a spacious cabin with five adults  accommodated with ease and has a large 460-litre boot which can be expanded to 1,336 litres by folding the rear seats.

With a beautifully styled premium-look cabin, functional switchgear layout and easy-to-use central touch-screen, the XC40 greatly impresses and with its pleasing driving dynamics also a strong plus-point, it certainly deserves to be on the short-list of anyone looking to buy a classy compact SUV.

Facts at a glance


Model: Volvo XC40 T4
Engine: 2.0 litre petrol
Transmission|: 8-speed automatic
Performance: 0-100 kph 8.1 seconds, top speed 209 kph
(130 mph)
Economy: 12.4 kpl (35.1 mpg)
Emissions: 154 g.km


Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

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Written by

Nick Fletcher

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