CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 39.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.5 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,300
Average Price: Around £24,000

Volvo XC40 (2018-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Stylish, chunky looks	Rear seats not the most comfortable
Excellent safety kit	Electric version is expensive
Comfortable as well as good to drive	Infotainment system on earlier models a bit fiddly

Quick Summary

The Volvo XC40 (2018-present) is an award-winning compact SUV that has successfully repositioned Volvo as a desirable brand. Its sharp exterior design and stylish, airy interior reflect the Swedish manufacturer's commitment to quality and innovation. The XC40 offers an elegantly appointed cabin with supremely comfortable front seats, though the rear middle seat is narrow and best reserved for occasional use. The boot is a practical shape with no load lip, making it easy to load heavier items. An all-electric version (EX40) joined the range in 2021, whilst mild-hybrid petrol engines now power the standard XC40 from 2024 onwards.

Volvo's philosophy prioritises comfort over outright dynamics, and the XC40 exemplifies this approach with excellent bump isolation and reassuringly high grip levels, though the light steering lacks feedback. The infotainment system was upgraded mid-life with Google-developed software, significantly improving usability. Strong residual values and competitive running costs make the XC40 as affordable as rivals including the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Range Rover Evoque. Mild-hybrid petrol engines deliver mid-forties mpg, whilst older diesel models achieve close to 50mpg. Service intervals are annual or every 18,000 miles, with flexible payment plans available.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and safe compact SUV with excellent build quality, strong residual values, and family-friendly practicality.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising rear seat comfort for longer journeys, seeking the most engaging driving dynamics, or wanting an affordable electric option (the EX40 is expensive).


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the XC40 if: You're seeking a stylish, comfortable, and safe compact SUV with excellent build quality, strong residual values, and family-friendly practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise rear seat comfort for longer journeys, want the most engaging driving dynamics, or need an affordable electric option.

Competitive Position: The Volvo XC40 (2018-present) is a highly desirable compact SUV that competes strongly against premium rivals including the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Range Rover Evoque. Its combination of Scandinavian design elegance, excellent safety credentials, and comfortable road manners make it an extremely pleasant car to drive or be driven in. Whilst it may not offer the most engaging dynamics or the best value for money compared to some rivals, its strong residual values, generous passenger space, and family-friendly practicality make it an easy car to live with. The XC40 represents a compelling choice for buyers who value style, comfort, and reliability over outright performance.

Read our full Volvo XC40 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.