The Volvo XC40 and the Lexus UX 250h are two slightly left-field choices if you're in the market for a premium compact SUV, offering something a little different from more established rivals from Audi, BMW and Mercedes.
The XC40 is most remarkable for its distinctive Scandinavian styling, and has been available with a varied range of powertrains during its lifespan, from diesels through to mild-hybrid petrol engines, plus electric versions that were in 2024 rebranded as the EX40. Your choices are more limited with the Lexus UX 250h, which is available only with a 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain producing 181bhp, though this does come in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive E-Four configuration.
Volvo XC40 vs Lexus UX 250h
Practicality
The Volvo XC40 presents a more family-friendly face when it comes to interior space and usability. The cabin is tastefully designed with glossy veneers set against responsibly sourced panels, all punctuated by satin chrome air vents and a well proportioned steering wheel. Overall, the feel is remarkably sophisticated. The front seats uphold Volvo's reputation for comfort, providing superb support and excellent lateral bolstering alongside their smart appearance. However, the rear bench is best considered as seating for four with occasional space for a fifth passenger, as the middle seat is rather too narrow and flat for extended journeys.
The Lexus UX 250h very clearly prioritises style over outright practicality. The interior design stands out from its German rivals with its distinctive aesthetic, and front seat occupants are well accommodated for space. However, rear seat passengers will find conditions a touch tighter, with limited headroom and legroom. Access to the rear seats is also not the best, which compounds the space limitations if you're trying to get comfortable in the back.
Boot space reveals a clear winner between these two models. The XC40 offers 452 litres of well-shaped cargo area with no load lip to navigate when loading heavier items, though you should exercise caution when opening the rear hatch to prevent loose items from escaping onto your driveway. The Lexus UX 250h is much less generous, however, and manages just 320 litres of luggage space with its rear seats upright, which equates to supermini levels of space rather than proper SUV capacity.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the Volvo XC40 embodies the Swedish brand's philosophy of prioritising comfort over outright dynamics, which suits its family-friendly brief well. The suspension setup delivers good bump isolation, successfully managing impacts even though there can be some audible suspension noise that makes abrupt cracks sound worse than they actually feel. The ride quality exhibits some floatiness with side-to-side movement, but grip and traction levels remain reassuring for country roads or wet roundabouts. The super-light weighting on the steering is beneficial in traffic or tight parking situations, though it sacrifices communication and feel in the process.
The Lexus UX 250h impresses with its seamless hybrid system integration, where the 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor work together effortlessly, amply demonstrating Lexus's expertise in this technology. The system operates as a 'self-charging' hybrid, storing energy only through regenerative braking or by using the petrol engine as a generator, unlike plug-in hybrid rivals. However, the CVT gearbox undermines the driving experience by holding engine revs at uncomfortable levels when accelerating, creating a sensation that never feels entirely natural despite the refined nature of the petrol engine.
Both cars feel perfectly competent on the road manners, but while the XC40 provides a more traditional SUV driving experience with its focus on comfort and ease of use, the Lexus excels in urban environments, living up to its UX (Urban Crossover) name badging with quiet, economical operation that works best when not hurried.
Technology and Equipment
The Volvo XC40 dashboard centres around a large infotainment touchscreen that dominates the interior. Early versions suffered from less intuitive operation with pinch-and-swipe functionality that can be difficult to use while driving, though the system does at least feature large fonts and icons. Later updates include Google-developed software that significantly improves the interface and user experience – this updated software makes it far more usable for daily operation.
The Lexus UX 250h takes a fundamentally different approach to infotainment that proves problematic in execution. Instead of a touchscreen, Lexus employs a touchpad system that operates a cursor similar to a laptop, but this interface is frustrating when you're stationary and virtually impossible to use safely while driving. It does include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which helps mitigate some operational difficulties, but the core interface is fundamentally below par. Paradoxically, the lack of built-in satellite navigation becomes a blessing given the difficulty of inputting destinations through the touchpad system.
The XC40 has been offered in various trim levels throughout its life – initially called Momentum, R-Design and Inscription before changing to Core, Plus and Ultra – though the specifics of the equipment provided has remained largely consistent. The model range includes both front-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive options, with powertrains evolving from diesel through petrol and mild-hybrid systems to plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions before the electric variants became the separate EX40 model in 2024. The Lexus UX 250h provides generous standard equipment even in base specification, including 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, push-button start, dual-zone climate control and a 10-speaker audio system, though it deliberately omits satellite navigation due to the interface limitations.
Running Costs
The Volvo XC40 benefits from strong desirability that translates into robust residual values, helping owners recoup a significant percentage of their initial investment. This desirability means buyers cannot expect substantial discounts from dealers, but the strong resale values help offset the higher purchase price and reduce monthly lease payments. The XC40 competes favourably on total cost of ownership against rivals including the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Mercedes GLA and Jaguar E-Pace.
The UX offers better fuel economy potential, achieving over 50mpg on the WLTP combined cycle (47mpg for the E-Four), compared to the XC40's mid-forties mpg from its mild-hybrid petrol engines or approaching 50mpg from older diesel variants.
Service costs should remain reasonable for both models, with each manufacturer offering flexible payment plans to spread maintenance expenses. The XC40 follows annual service intervals or every 18,000 miles, whichever comes first, with information available through Volvo's website. Lexus provides similar service plan options, and the hybrid system's reduced mechanical stress should contribute to longevity. Remember, too, that Lexus will warranty its cars up to 10 years or 100,000 miles provided you service it with in the dealer network, providing additional peace of mind.
Verdict
The choice between these two premium compact SUVs depends largely on your priorities and intended use. The Volvo XC40 emerges as the more practical family choice, offering superior interior space, better boot capacity and a more versatile range of seating arrangements. Its comfortable road manners, elegant interior design and strong safety credentials make it an excellent all-rounder that justifies its desirable image with genuine substance. The updated infotainment system addresses earlier concerns, and the variety of powertrain options provides flexibility for different needs and budgets.
The Lexus UX 250h will appeal to buyers who prioritise fuel economy, distinctive styling and proven hybrid reliability over outright practicality. Its standout design helps it cut through the visual monotony of many premium compact SUVs, and the seamless hybrid system delivers impressive fuel economy for urban driving. However, the compromised infotainment system and limited interior space restrict its appeal for families or those requiring regular rear passenger accommodation. The UX 250h works best as a stylish urban runabout for couples or small families who value efficiency and reliability over maximum practicality. Both cars offer alternatives to the German premium norm, but the XC40 provides broader appeal through its superior space and versatility.