If you crave a stylish, safe, and technologically advanced compact luxury SUV, the Volvo XC40 is a top contender for 2025. This Scandinavian masterpiece marries minimalist elegance with cutting-edge features, spirited performance, and practical versatility—ideal for city streets or weekend getaways. In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything from its engaging drive experience to its intelligently designed boot space, tech features, and a detailed comparison with rivals.
Striking Exterior & Distinct Styling
- Modern Scandinavian design: Sharp edges, bold front grille, and signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights.
- Color options: Onyx Black, Crystal White, Fjord Blue, Fusion Red, among others.
- Dimensions: Length 4,440mm, Width 1,863mm, Height 1,651mm—offering a compact footprint without sacrificing cabin room.
Key Exterior Highlights
- 18–19-inch alloy wheels
- Contrasting roof color options
- Power tailgate with hands-free opening (select variants)
- LED headlamps and taillamps
Luxurious and Smartly Crafted Interior
Step inside the XC40 and discover a driver-centric, high-quality cabin:
- Seating capacity: 5 adults with generous headroom and legroom.
- Material choices: Premium leather upholstery, textile options, and soft-touch panels.
- Sunroof: Panoramic glass for airy ambience (select variants).
- Storage solutions: Deep door bins, foldaway hooks, credit card slots, and a cooled glovebox.
Infotainment & Connectivity
- 9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
- 12.3-inch digital driver display
- Harman Kardon premium audio (14 speakers)
- Wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C ports
Engine & Transmission
Engine Type |
Power |
Torque |
Transmission |
Drive Type |
2.0L Turbo Petrol |
197hp |
300Nm |
8-Speed Automatic |
AWD |
Mild Hybrid |
247hp |
300Nm |
8-Speed Automatic |
AWD |
- Fuel efficiency: 12–14kmpl, good for city driving and light touring.
- Performance: Responsive acceleration, smooth gear shifts, and stable ride thanks to AWD and tailored suspension systems.
Safety: Volvo’s Signature DNA
No Volvo review is complete without mentioning safety:
- 7 airbags
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BLIS)
- Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving with adaptive cruise control)
- Collision Mitigation System, Lane Keeping Aid, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, Run-off Road Mitigation
- Euro NCAP 5-star rating (97% adult occupant protection)
Boot Space & Practicality
- Standard boot space: 443–460 litres, depending on configuration
- Maximum boot (seats folded): 1,328–1,432 litres—a flat, wide loading area makes bulky luggage easy to stow
- Interior practicality: Ample storage cubbies, clever packing, and a low load lip for effortless loading
Practical Features:
- Split rear seats for flexible cargo/passenger arrangements
- Hands-free power tailgate (select variants)
- Hidden under-floor compartment for secure storage
Standout Features
- Dual-zone climate control
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats
- Adaptive LED headlamps
- Wireless charging and advanced infotainment
- Advanced driver assistance (Pilot Assist, BLIS, 360° cameras)
Volvo XC40: Specs Snapshot
Parameter |
Value |
Engine |
2.0L Turbo Petrol |
Power |
197hp–247hp |
Torque |
300Nm |
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
Drive Type |
AWD |
Seating |
5 |
Boot Space |
443–460 litres |
Ground Clearance |
211mm |
Fuel Efficiency |
12–14kmpl |
Safety Rating |
5-Star Euro NCAP |
Infotainment |
9" Touchscreen |
Price (India) |
₹46.40 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Comparison Table: Volvo XC40 vs. Key Rivals
Feature/Spec |
Volvo XC40 |
BMW X1 |
Mercedes-Benz GLA |
Audi Q3 |
Price (ex-showroom) |
₹46.40 lakh |
₹49.50–52.50 lakh |
₹50.50–56.90 lakh |
₹43.81–53.17 lakh |
Engine |
2.0L turbo petrol |
1.5L petrol |
1.3L petrol |
2.0L petrol |
Power |
197–247hp |
134hp |
163hp |
190hp |
Torque |
300Nm |
230Nm |
250Nm |
320Nm |
Transmission |
8-speed automatic |
7-speed DCT |
7-speed DCT |
7-speed S tronic |
Drive Type |
AWD |
FWD/AWD |
FWD/AWD |
FWD/AWD |
Boot Space |
443–460 litres |
540 litres |
435 litres |
420 litres |
Safety Rating |
5-Star Euro NCAP |
5-Star |
5-Star |
5-Star |
Infotainment |
9" w/ Google, HK audio |
10.25" w/ iDrive |
10.25" MBUX |
10.1" MMI |
Notable Features |
Pilot Assist, BLIS |
Gesture control, parking assistant |
MBUX AI voice, active brake assist |
Virtual cockpit, rear USB-C |
Final Verdict
The Volvo XC40 is a comprehensive, safe and luxury compact SUV that excels in two particular areas, including:
- Engaging and comfortable driving experience whether for day-to-day local commutes or further afield
- Well-evolved technology and premium features designed for educated consumers
- Safety and security attached to the Volvo brand globally
- A practical spatial layout with creative storage and boot functionality
From city dwellers to new families and returning enthusiasts, the XC40 showcases a little Scandinavian charm whilst offering real world functions to produce one of the smartest purchasing decisions in this competitive market segment.