CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.5 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,400
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 combines striking Scandinavian design with a sophisticated, tastefully appointed interior. Released in 2018, it features an elegantly designed cabin with high-quality materials, exceptionally comfortable front seats, and a practical boot with no load lip. The XC40 prioritises comfort over outright driving dynamics, offering smooth bump isolation, reassuring grip and traction, and light steering ideal for urban driving. An all-electric version (rebranded as the EX40 in 2024) joined the range in 2021, alongside plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid petrol options, providing flexibility for different driving needs and budgets.

As a used car, the XC40 represents excellent value, with strong residual values and competitive running costs. Mild-hybrid petrol engines deliver mid-forties mpg, whilst older diesel models achieve close to 50mpg. The now-discontinued plug-in hybrids offer theoretical efficiency of 134mpg when charged regularly, whilst the fully electric variant provides zero tailpipe emissions at lower fuel costs. Volvo's renowned safety focus, combined with generous passenger space and family-friendly practicality, makes the XC40 an easy car to live with. Annual servicing or every 18,000 miles ensures reliability and peace of mind.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and practical compact SUV with excellent safety credentials, those valuing Scandinavian design and quality interiors, and families wanting a pleasant driving experience with strong residual values.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising rear seat comfort for longer journeys, budget-conscious buyers seeking the electric version, or drivers wanting a more engaging, dynamic driving experience.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the XC40 if: You value stylish design and quality interiors, seek a comfortable and practical compact SUV with excellent safety credentials, or want strong residual values and competitive running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise rear seat comfort for longer journeys, need the most affordable electric option, or desire a more engaging, dynamic driving experience.

Competitive Position: The Volvo XC40 (2018-present) is a standout in the compact SUV segment, offering superior design, interior quality, and comfort compared to rivals like the Audi Q3 and Range Rover Evoque. Its excellent user ratings (4.6/5) and strong overall CarGurus rating (4.5/5) reflect its appeal. Whilst the BMW X1 matches it on user rating, the XC40 edges ahead with its distinctive Scandinavian aesthetic and refined driving experience. With 34.6% good or great deals available, it represents solid value. The XC40's combination of style, comfort, practicality, and safety focus makes it an exceptionally easy car to live with, particularly for families and those valuing quality and design over outright dynamism.

Read our full Volvo XC40 Review

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