Used Volvo XC40 2017-present review

To many, Volvos are seen as being well thought out, 'fit for purpose' cars that are also very safe. However, there have been a few desirable and stylish examples in the firm's past that have bucked this stereotype, and in the last few years, its produced a whole host of good-looking, upmarket SUVs, like this compact Volvo XC40, that manage to satisfy all of the aforementioned criteria.

Indeed the Volvo XC40 oozes style both inside and out - and it's no wonder it carried off our overall What Car? Car of the Year award in 2017. Now, it makes for an excellent used buy, with plenty of examples to choose from on the forecourts. 

There are also two 2.0-litre diesels: the 148bhp D3 and 187bhp D4. These diesels, however, were dropped in late 2020 in preference for the plug-in hybrid models. 

A recent rationalisation of the range means all XC40s now get a seven-speed automatic gearbox and front-wheel drive, even the entry-level petrol B3. There are also two plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), called the T4 and T5 Recharge, plus the fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge. 

Trims start off with entry-level Momentum. This comes with lots of goodies, including cruise control, dual-zone climate control, a 9.0in tablet touchscreen, digital instruments, 18in alloy wheels, LED headlights and rear parking sensors. Next up is the sportier R-Design. This adds seats trimmed in leather and nubuck, power-folding door mirrors, privacy glass and ambient interior lighting. The more luxurious Inscription model completes the range with an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, front parking sensors, an electric tailgate, wood trim inlays and a crystal gear selector on automatic versions.

Trims with 'Pro' at the end of the name add adaptive LED headlights, heated front seats, an electrically adjustable passenger seat with memory function, headlight washers, a heated windscreen and 19in or 20in alloy wheels. Options worth seeking out include the Convenience Pack for its extra practicality.

Later, post-2021 cars, had trim levels that ranged from relatively basic (Core) to properly sumptuous (Ultimate). 

On the road, the Volvo XC40 is a smooth and hushed performer, with a low level of wind and road noise, helping to make the interior a noticeably refined place in which to spend time, and most engines provide more than enough oomph.

Inside, you'll find an excellent driving position with good visibility, a comfortable seat and plenty of adjustment. The standard digital instruments prove easy to read at a glance, and because the minimalist dashboard design carries few physical buttons, it’s easy to interpret those that are there. However, you do have to access quite a lot of functions through the infotainment touchscreen; this can be a faff, but at least the screen is crystal-clear.

When it comes to interior quality, the XC40 is exceptionally classy. All the surfaces that you interact with regularly feel suitably upmarket, thanks to plush, soft-faced materials, smart wood veneer or metal highlights. Everything feels robust, too, so it should stand the test of time and the demands of family use.

There’s plenty of space up front, while rear passengers have enough leg and head room, although rivals such as the BMW X1 and VW Tiguan offer slightly more.

On paper, the boot in the Volvo XC40 is smaller than those rivals', but in everyday use it’s wide, deep and easily accessible, with a useful underfloor storage area.

If you're interested in finding a used XC40, or any of the other SUVs mentioned here, head over to the Used Car Buying pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at great prices.