2018 Volvo XC40 Full Review and Comparison

Volvo's newest CUV is also their most impressive in several ways. Since 2016, all Volvo's new products have been closely related so when the XC90 proved to be a solid luxury SUV, it was logical it's close relatives would be tough competitors as well. The new XC40 on the other hand uses an entirely new platform, one designed specifically for small vehicles.
After the success of the SPA platform vehicles, many in the automotive press were wondering if Volvo would be able to knock another one out of the park, and the answer is yes. Volvo's new XC40 and CMA platform prove that we're seeing a renaissance, not a "one hit wonder."
Part of what makes the XC40 so impressive is the segment in which it competes. The sub-compact luxury CUV segment in America contains no RWD based vehicles at this time. This puts Volvo's FWD based XC40 on equal footing with the big boys from Mercedes and BMW from the start. On top of that Volvo gives us the most standard power in the segment, highest level of standard equipment, and oddly enough, one of the lowest base prices. Coupled with some of the best driving dynamics, a sexy exterior, plenty of premium options and an upcoming EV and plug-in hybrid model, the XC40 is quite simply the best small luxury crossover you can buy. The only question left is: can Volvo build enough of them?
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[@andras.89]

Gorgeous look, especially in white with R-Design. That lava color fabric interior also fresh and classy. Volvo nailed it.

[@joeyo6209]

How do you keep the lava fabric clean when you own the car? I can see it getting dirty and fabric is difficult to clean, especially if u live in places where there is a lot of snow. Interesting that a Swedish company didn't think of this

[@ab9zd73]

Volvo has been owned by the Chinese since 2010.

[@andras.89]

Ken Helms Chinese money, Swedish traditions and finest engineering. Yap, the best what could happen with the brand:)

[@RM9K]

Nailed it? Not exactly. The black plastic cladding degrades the overall presentation by at least a notch or two. Ugh.

[@georgelurye6274]

This car is built in Ghent, Belgium, while all others are being moved to be built at 3 factories in China.

[@bobfredericks6545]

Alex is the most comprehensive and informative when reviewing vehicles. Good job.

[@levankopaliani1]

I can tell your reviews are the most informative, not brain damaging by the useless information. The most in-depth review not only in this video, but all of them. THANKS!

[@swesleyc7]

This is probably the most in-depth review I've seen to date.

[@appointedcounsel5550]

Another solid review! Alex, your reviews are the best.- comprehensive, objective, detailed, and professionally delivered.

[@canadianplanespotter]

Saw your advertisement somewhere and figured "eh, this is the kinda car content I wanna watch!". Definitely subscribed :)

[@jeffs6090]

I love mine, had it for almost 2 weeks now. Loaded Momentum black with red leather. Gorgeous! This new platform is great, and the next vehicles on it will also be hot sellers. My dealer in Indy can't keep these in stock.

[@tu6198]

WOW. THAT IS BY FAR THE BEST CROSSOVER I'VE SEEN IN DECADES.

[@Rapunzel879]

Wow, what a comprehensive review. I'm so impressed. Subbed!

[@mendoza0656]

Most detailed video of this vehicle I have found on KZbin. Great job!

[@anhedonic2252]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXWUooWbqtdlrtE Try this one

[@HobbyFinn2]

Excellent review, you are really more of a car professional than a salesman. Thanks!

[@joeychitwood6004]

Volvo has always had the most comfortable seats. This XC40 is on my shopping list!

[@SK-rj6vx]

Joey Chitwood BEST seats in the biz. HANDS DOWN

[@joeychitwood6004]

I agree!

[@myslecinaczej8674]

but only front seats in this vehicle are comfortable. Rear seats are inclined so much upright (to safe space) you can only seat there during a short trip. Yes- I been there and seen and felt it with my a...Some reviewers mentioned that too. And the recent years Volvo "quality".....this company manufacture tons of electronic crap. Tons of problems with infotainment systems make these vehicle definitely non-premium. Very disappointing for a volvo fun like me.

[@georgelurye6274]

Volvo doesn't actually manufacture any electronics. They're all outsourced, just like all other brands of cars.

[@banana_junior_9000]

This one is my jam. Test drive one, they are amazing.

[@needlesspirate9825]

Those people who disliked this video,don't know what kind of review they expect from. So far I know Alex has the best auto review out there. Even I fought my car after watching Alex review.

[@bennylofgren3208]

said rahman They are just the usual random pack of rabid Volvo haters. Ignorance breeds contempt...

[@ltkwok2961]

Can't wait for the plugin and the full electric XC40

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

As a Volvo guy: I'd buy this someday Alex.

[@user-ve2qe1qi8o]

Very detailed analysis and in depth comparison with the competition. Excellent presentation!

[@Nwakaego_]

Great review,Alex. I’ve been looking for a review like this. Thank you! I’m definitely getting this vehicle very soon.

[@melluecke1055]

Gorgeous!!! Love the sporty compact design. Perfect for those with limited garage space and those like me who love the smaller sporty look.

[@umarslatif]

Excellent/comprehensive review as always

[@markgeller5900]

Man Alex, what a great review. YOU DIDN'T MISS A THING!!! This is clearly a winner in the under 40K suv's, especially when it comes plug-in with the potential for really high mileage for us city dwellers who only occasionally need a road car and an off-road car. I can't wait until you get your hands on the new V60 wagon. Soon?

[@stephengriffin4990]

Excellent review like how you mention road noise and ride difference in the models.

[@baldheadlogic]

Great Review Alex. I am soooo impressed by the XC40.

[@jetonsulejmani8456]

Great review, if not the best. Definitely a pleasure watching it. Keep up the good work 👍🏻

[@JamesRussoMillas]

Volvo killing it right now!

[@_Randwulf]

Excellent review as always Alex.... Waiting for their EV or Plug-In Hybrid Inscription models... 😎

[@glow4417]

Great review, always enjoy your video's Alex - keep it up!

[@earthzero7]

Agreed. Absolutely waiting for the EV model. I'll hold out until then. This car really has it all. Hope they can keep or improve upon the interior space, driving dynamics and ground clearance when it goes electric.

[@patrickdavis1038]

Randwulf I think the xc 40 is the best Volvo

[@raidensears5321]

brilliant review. this review is for people who are truly interested in purchasing the car as it details everything

[@adasmith7141]

Excellent video... Thanks so much for sharing...

[@gastrein11]

best and most informed car reviewer i have ever watched, i am a fan

[@maxjosquin6757]

Another professional and fantastic review. Thank you for doing such an excellent job. This XC40 looks awesome and must be fun to drive...need to test drive one...

[@ms.fortune2957]

GREAT Presentation🏆

[@phertzman]

Kudos for playing Shirley Clamp! 😄

[@cypvh74]

Can’t wait for your XC40 PHEV and EV review.

[@hansigutten]

great review!!! I've seen so many and this one has to be the best ever :-)

[@travelinben1966]

Outstanding review, thank you.

[@LALITJAIN17JAN1977]

Excellent & Comprehensive review

[@christiemcdonough4211]

I ordered my XC 40 R Design just this week!

[@yeahyeah9068]

Thinking about getting it. Please let me know your thoughts on it.

[@robc7563]

Great review. I purchased the XC40 inscription. Totally awesome car. We love it. Thanks again for your extremely well done review.

[@thozz]

Rave Reviewer ..... can you help please. Does your inscription have the electric folding rear seat backs. I've just picked up my inscription pro, with several packs added including the convenience pack, but just has a blanking cap in the boot/trunk where the seat release buttons should be. But it does have the electric folding rear head restraints... which seems a bit daft....thanks

[@zeezee9653]

Love the look of this model

[@darexdarex]

No mention of the current MINI Countryman S All4, yet you spend significant time talking about models that are on the way out (Q3) or not even available yet (UX). Hmmmmm...

[@alliejr]

...and Alex just recently reviewed the electric MINI.

[@wellcraft2136]

@@darexdarex because that is not a realistic comparison!

[@MarcSelwan]

This is really an amazing car. Just a note to potential buyers, at least in the Bay Area, these things are back ordered for at least 5-6 months. I ended up with an XC60 instead - A T5 XC60 with similar features to the full loaded XC40 isn't too far off in price.

[@rumynchik]

$8K difference between fully loaded T5 Momentums. So not exactly peanuts. XC60 has great incentives, which make the price more attractive, at the moment.

[@keiasworld5934]

Marc Selwan I waited almost 4 months for mine

[@blaksable]

Excellent review! Was instantly excited when I saw it posted. Now, to wait for the Lexus UX review. It’s between the XC40 and the UX for me.

[@normt5463]

The Lexus might be less to buy as it is less if a car. No navigation, no SAT radio, no AWD. But probably a nice city car.

[@blaksable]

Norm T For some, those things would matter, but I have Nav and satellite radio in my present vehicle. I don’t use either. For nav I use Maps or Waze on my iPhone, so Apple CarPlay will be just fine for that aspect in the Lexus. After a few months of using satellite radio, I cancelled it because, as with radio, same music over and over. Comedy stations played same routines over and over. I prefer podcasts, which I could listen to via the iPhone app. 🤷🏽‍♀️ Vehicle purchases are about needs, and some wants. I’m in Atlanta, GA...I won’t be doing any off-roading, so no need for AWD. Reliability, value, function, aesthetically pleasing...the Lexus brand checks those boxes...aside from the fenders on the UX. 🤦🏽‍♀️ Volvo does too. Both have their pros and cons, but I’d like to see what the UX brings at launch before making a decision.

[@tigerdeal1]

Check to see if Lexus has an Overseas Delivery Program, Volvo's is the Best and my wife and I had a great trip to Sweden and Denmark while driving our new R-Design XC40. While also paying no destination charges on my new car. Plus, got a warranty of up to 120K on my new Volvo. So, for peace of mind, I love my purchase. My local car wash place has not had any problems keeping my Lava interior clean. I am an outside sales associate and have plenty of people riding in my car. I only get it detailed once a month. I would recommend this car to anyone! I love it no buyers remorse here. Again, our trip alone was worth the purchase from memories made alone! Gothenburg is three hours from Oslo and 3 and a half from Copenhagen. Lstly 4 hurs to Stockholm.

[@eddie2k893]

The same for me just waiting for the UX.

[@Swatsrong30]

@@blaksable my understanding, Lexus doesn't allow car play or Android Auto

[@abdelouedraogo1679]

I've always said that Volvo doesn't get the recognition it deserves. Terrific review of the XC 40, hopefully this is my next after the VW Tiguan.

[@juniemills7296]

Definitely going to get this suv for Christmas.

[@wmalden]

The air vents at the far left and right ends of the instrument panel remind me of the 1950’s Edsel “horse collar” grille.

[@eridanisdjuvienne1942]

EXACTLY what i thought!!

[@mariof9103]

Great review, Alex.

[@twerpylou]

Volvo makes great cars- safe, fun, luxurious and relatively affordable!

[@sweetfreedomGB]

twerpylou .. yes and all driven by women and that's fine but Volvo will you ever make a blokes car again?

[@twerpylou]

George- get yourself a Polestar. And some ladies can drive just as good as the blokes ;)

[@paulcwyuen]

Those thinking of German makes only should open their eyes and take a look at Volvo.

[@selvintabora5615]

@@sweetfreedomGB ironically enough their logo is the male sex symbol

[@bubert8955]

volvos logo is the alchemy icon for iron after the swedish iron they were previously made from

[@anhedonic2252]

Thank you for the review. My only gripe - very light steering (even at the firmest setting/Dynamic mode). We're in the process of replacing our old 60 series with XC40. Once the hype dies down, we'll be pulling a trigger. Nice rounded vehicle.

[@justabrokeredneck]

end up liking it? 5 years later it’s in my price range. replacing a hyundai accent with it. looking at the t5 r design

[@c2n667]

This is a detailed and extremely well presented review! If possible, I'd love to hear your thoughts on it's AWD performance in adverse conditions. Great job!

[@georgelurye6274]

The Volvo seems to be amazing off-road. One might say best in class. It will outperform most CUVs in any class actually when off the pavement.

[@johngaudet6316]

I love the V40- V60, nice cars so comfortable.

[@stuartmarshall7099]

Fantastic review

[@brwalsh17]

Bought XC40 T5 in US a few months ago. Getting 24 mpg combined. Driving it is a joy. Seats v comfortable. I drive it often in off-road mode on the beach, where it handles everything my old Jeep Wrangle did except very very soft sand - got stuck once. Got some Tred boards to get myself out. The 8.7 inch ground clearance beats most other CUVs in its class. Very smart car, with many options to customize. Love the large touchscreen. Pano sunroof cover closes automatically when the parked car gets hot inside. Storage in back is small, but ease of dropping back seats flat means i can carry the occasional load w/out problem. If you remove the hard cargo cover it fits perfectly in the slot designed for it - i.e., it isn't "seemed to be sized" - it was designed like that! I use that space to stash my tred boards for off-road. Fun car!

[@georgelurye6274]

The XC40 has 8.3 inches of ground clearance, not 8.7. Subarus have 8.7 on most models.

[@AllStars2525]

Do ventilated front seats come with the R Design and Inscription trims? Great review. I like this car although it's shorter than I'd like.

[@nhnoreaster]

thanks for the review. I much prefer the back removable shelf vs rolling flap thingy cover for the cargo area. One thing you didn't mention is that you can also flip it upside-down in the back as an option but it's far better than a roller thingy, imho. too bad this is so back-ordered.. :(

[@isaacautos3147]

Can’t wait to get one

[@SerenityNowForever]

I'd be interested in seeing you do a review on the T4 and compare.

[@ormand3000]

Very high praise from Alex...I am sure this is a great vehicle :-)

[@Showmetheevidence-]

Interesting conclusion! Go Volvo!

[@FG-fk6jb]

Sorry for unrelated comment...Alex, are you planning to review the new Mazda 6 2.5 turbo sedan anytime soon? I'm eagerly waiting, as I believe your reviews ARE the best of them all. Respectfully.

[@stupid8911]

Great look at this, Alex, as always. I may have missed it, but any feedback on the infotainment system? I've heard it's a pain and probably it's only Achilles heel. I can admire automakers going for bigger screens, but too many hiccups so far in their efforts. I'm thinking of the Prius Prime's upper trim and its infotainment system. :-(. What say you?

[@nimblybimbly4002]

That rear wiper looks massive! 2:42

[@TheoPhilpot]

17:15 wow never heard of a QX40 😂 we all make mistakes. Superb video.

[@derkin860]

Really good review.

[@karlp8484]

Great to see VOLVO come back so strongly over the last 3-4 years. They always made great cars. If you lived in the 1970s you'd be crazy not to buy a 240

[@progreviews]

Very nice way of reviewing. Great way speaking

[@mascottie]

Do you mind telling me which town you’re driving in? The scenery is beautiful. Would be a great road trip.

[@JoeAesthetics]

I really like this look

[@tattoochef425]

Do you have to toggle like that with the gear selector when already in drive mode for reverse, so when parallel parking, do you have up toggle up twice to hit reverse and then toggle twice again for drive, or is that only when going from park?

[@markspoor4663]

Great! Thanks Alex

[@beedabee1221]

Loving this truck!!!

[@andychen7818]

Hey Alex, don't forget the Cadillac XT4 will be joining the segment soon!

[@just4thethrills]

Genuis creation!

[@dmack7265]

Great review! Besides the Audi, this Volvo is a good looking option.

[@robertsercaru9705]

Congrats! You are the best auto reviewer on KZbin. Keep up the good work! Thank you!

[@LlyleHunter]

My Volvo saved my life!

[@aramiris]

mine too

[@MultiWarbird]

Bruce Solomon How?

[@ElroyMcDuff]

I'll answer that question with another question - what is Volvo's claim to fame?

[@LlyleHunter]

I was driving up to my home which was a corner lot one night. A kid in a stolen 1977 Gran Prix was speeding on the street without lights. He t-boned my 740 GL wagon sending me up on two wheels diagonally with only my driver's side wheels on the ground, straight into my own three foot wide sycamore tree completely bashing the front end to the windshield cowl. I required back surgery a few years later but I walked out of the car myself and the accident wasn't painful because the car went out of its way to protect me. The bottom of the dash became like a cushion and when the car landed I fell sideways with my shoulders on the passenger seat. The storage armrest collapsed softly under my waist causing no abrasions or pain. I'm certain that if I'd been in my previous '87 Escort GT I wouldn't be here. I made sure that I'd replaced with a 940.

[@LlyleHunter]

Safety! It's true.

[@khkckhkc]

Great review as always Alex, I would like to point out one thing though, isnt the transmission in the Volvo an Aisin (Toyota) unit rather than a ZF found in the X1?

[@georgelurye6274]

Yup, the Aisin AWF8F35.

[@mohammadfarajzadehtehrani88]

This is really handsome. I wish XC60 and V60 had the same back design/lights.

[@czyredhd]

XC 40 Is the 1st attractive Volvo in my opinion. I love it's look!

[@h.billieli1563]

There is a separate brand Lynk co-owned by Volvo and GEELY who released their Lynk01 3 month ago. Same CMA platform but cheaper. It will come to US soon.

[@Dejesusluis87]

Alex can you tell me if the xc40 has a more harsh suspension than the bmw x1? Which one feels more comfortable, it will be for a family of 4 , two adults a two 1 year olds. Thanks. I truly admire your work, big fan here.

[@robertenglebright8257]

I love your reviews. I am completely smitten with the XC40. I had been looking for a new car after moving from NYC to Chicago, and my choice was the Subaru Legacy Outback. Then I saw this. I test drove one at my local dealer, ordered one, and will have it delivered late June. The major factor that sold me getting this car over the Outback was the subscription plan, where everything is covered for one monthly payment, including insurance.

[@almeladze]

Robert, how can you compare a Subaru and a European premium offering? It's like comparing apples and pizza (not even oranges LOL). Quick question: why is the car delivered in June? Did you special order some specs or the car is not available?

[@robertenglebright8257]

Hi Alexander! I was not comparing them. :) I mentioned that I was originally going to buy a Subaru. I've owned 2 Outback station wagons, and have loved them. Very reliable, good build quality, lots of cargo space, etc. They may be a better car than you are giving it credit for. Then, when I saw and test drove the XC40 I was completely smitten. And when I did a price comparison with the premium model of the Outback and the XC40 there was not much difference. I am giving up more cargo space by not buying the Subaru, but I don't care. LOL. I am using Volvo's new car subscription plan, which requires me to order the car.

[@almeladze]

Robert, no offense but I think Subarus are not attractive cars no matter how practical or reliable they may be. And I know that for some people looks matter less but I like my cars to be aesthetically attractive AND practical at the same time. As for the price, of course they would be day and night - this is a European upmarket car (even if not entirely luxury category like Jag or a German trio) vs a Subaru which is more of a utilitarian vehicle. So if you were to lease or purchase the car it would have been available right-away but since you are using the subscription they wanted you to order and wait? I am trying to figure out if they're readily available or there is back-order for them. Somebody mentioned here that there was a line and a waiting involved with getting these XC40 these days.

[@robertenglebright8257]

Taste is subjective & people buy different cars for different reasons. Try not to interject your personal tastes into my comment about a Subaru and a Volvo: while I respect your opinion, there is a hint of egotism in your reply. You think Subarus aren't attractive, and there are those who think they are, including me. If you need to make that judgement call, be my guest, but not all opinions need to be shared with strangers. :) I'm perfectly aware of what the XC40 represents and what the Subaru represents - I'm capable of making a decision on a car based on what may seem like contradictory criteria. To your questions: the subscription plan required me to order the car.

[@almeladze]

Robert Englebright I like everything pretty, cars, watches, women. But not only pretty but also competent and reliable. Thnx!

[@nimblybimbly4002]

This as a BEV and I'm in!

[@rustlesee]

7:47, I actually prefer a hard cover any day over the flimsy roll ups. They cover the cargo better, add better sound insulation, and over all look better. Yes roll ups might be easier to handle when they are needed out of the way, but that doesn't negate the fact the hard covers just look and perform better 90% of the time.

[@bennylofgren3208]

Russell C Yes, and you can put things on them as well (although of course you shouldn't, since it might come flying in case of a collision). But a pillow or a blanket won't kill you...

[@DougFrantz]

The current Volvo roll up covers don't have storage big enough to get them out of the way for on the fly use. I like the fact that you can stow this under the storage compartment, many will live their whole lives there, and that beats taking up space in the garage like the roll up covers often do for many folks!

[@almeladze]

you can put a pillow or a blanket on the roll ups as well. Roll ups are more versatile overall if you tend to fill up your trunk above the "waterline". Living in the city without a garage makes it difficult to store the hard shelf (but it seems like recently a few manufacturers found a solution like the under the floor storage of the hard shelf (even if it takes a little room away storage-wise). Overall, not the most critical feature of the car.

[@georgelurye6274]

Hard covers often break at the pivot point and have to be completely replaced at a very high price, cannot be rolled back partially to allow a larger piece of cargo and don't bend if something tall is under them, while still hiding it.

[@wellcraft2136]

@@DougFrantz you nailed it!!

[@chairde]

I really like this.

[@christong88]

It sounds like XC40 is a closer competitor to Mini countryman. Both are sporty and have their characters. I am really curious how these two compare to each other.

[@Zertraxis]

The floor is lava! : O

[@chrisleecalpoly]

I know that Bay Area road! Few more weeks of greenery before the hills turn brown...

[@redwrathable]

best review i've seen yet. great job. very detailed and informed

[@silentseeker79]

This is not called cartoonish Mr Alex, this is called stylish design. Very big difference .

[@kickadams8908ass]

Nice looking Vehicle

[@deanbrandon3615]

How well can you see out of the back and side windows? Visibility seems limited in most SUVs.

[@Lt.Mingus69]

Looks quite attractive, but that C-pillar looks like it would create a massive blind spot.

[@stevestojan]

J Pollock I’ve had mine for a month. No issues with C Pillar and blind spot.

[@georgelurye6274]

When does a driver look through the rear quarter panel anyway? You can't do that while you're driving. Do you mean for parking? You have huge mirrors in this one and a great, big rearview camera that should take care of the issue. It's a small car anyway. Pretty short.

[@samisidhik]

Alex, how comfortable are the rear seats? You and other reviewers have pointed out that its quite upright. Will it be comfortable for long journeys?

[@georgelurye6274]

Sat in them a minute at the auto show and was already looking for a lever to recline them. They are only okay for a very short trip. Absolutely not long journeys.

[@akichisel2538]

Oh man i really like this review. But yr hands on the steer reminds me of Morgan Freeman on "driving ms. DAISY". Or "try to pass the driver's license test at age 17". Nevertheless very good review. Thanks

[@MrEugeneleo]

@alex Can the digital instrument cluster show google map?

[@xF34Rz]

Would have been a prefect package if there was an option for ventilated seats.

[@JYD_esign]

Great review! I think you should make a point to say that Volvo standard autonomous braking system /Lane keeping aid can sometimes be a $2,000 option in the competition. Also the extendable thigh cushion is standard in the momentum trim as well.

[@anhedonic2252]

An extendable cushion is not standard in Momentum. It's not available in Momentum at all.

[@darrenetienne5156]

Alex when is the Nissan Altima review coming

[@albingatdula8163]

Between Volvo XC40 and Lexus NX 300, which one is a better pick. Be using it in NY state so an AWD is a must for me

[@DJPleasureSeekingMissle]

I am not a fan of SUVs but this thing is quite nice. Can’t wait for the V40 hatchback. Hurry up Volvo!

[@user-so5de6yp1d]

3:20 Whether it is a styling choice or not, they should have an option where you could opt for a led turn signal. That incandescent light bulb looks so ugly when placed next to led bulbs.

[@rcn5008]

Stultus Puer couldn’t agree more

[@almeladze]

That whole golf club shaped read light combo has got to go. they looked OK like 15 years ago. I am all for tradition but they look outdated.