Two cars, one duel: Alfa Romeo Junior meets Volvo XC40.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!
The compact SUV segment is increasingly competitive, with manufacturers pushing the envelope to gain an edge. Today, we dissect two worthy contenders: the Alfa Romeo Junior and the Volvo XC40. Both offer a blend of modern technology, style, and performance but cater to slightly different philosophies of driving experience.
First impressions matter, and the aesthetics of the Junior and the XC40 are a testament to their brands' distinct heritage. The Alfa Romeo Junior measures 4173 mm long, 1781 mm wide, and up to 1538 mm tall, showcasing a sleek design that's quintessentially Italian. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC40 stands taller and wider, with dimensions of 4425 mm in length, 1863 mm in width, and 1652 mm in height, portraying the robust and purposeful styling of Swedish engineering.
Under the hood, the variety in engine offerings between these models is significant. The Alfa Romeo Junior offers both electric and petrol MHEV variants, with power outputs ranging from 136 to 280 HP. It exhibits a diverse blend of eco-friendly electric ranges of 315 to 410 km and respectable acceleration times of just 5.9 seconds for its high-powered variant.
Conversely, the Volvo XC40 remains solely focused on petrol MHEV configurations, with two options delivering 163 and 197 HP. It strikes a balance between performance and efficiency with acceleration times from 8.6 to 7.6 seconds, integrating Volvo's known prowess in delivering stead-savvy horsepower and torque, reaching up to 300 Nm.
Innovation plays a crucial role in the appeal of these SUVs. Alfa's Junior boasts an all-wheel-drive option mixed with a fully electric variant, marking its leap into next-gen motoring. Fuel efficiency is impressive, with the electric variant consuming 19 kWh/100km. Electric motors provide instant torque, enhancing drive quality and responsiveness.
Volvo champions safety and sustainability with its MHEV tech, optimizing the 1969 cm³ engine for reduced emissions (147-148 g/km). The XC40 epitomizes Volvo's commitment to maintaining eco-efficiency while ensuring peak safety standards through advanced driver-assistance systems.
Both models promise practicality with five doors and seating capacity for five. The Alfa Romeo Junior provides a trunk capacity of up to 415 liters, which suits urban and suburban lifestyles. Its curb weight varies between 1380 to 1635 kg, offering a light but sturdy frame for versatile driving.
The Volvo XC40, with a trunk volume of 452 liters and over 500 kg of payload capacity, caters to families needing extra cargo space. Its robust curb weight of 1688 kg underpins Volvo's dedication to safety and durability.
Choosing between the Alfa Romeo Junior and the Volvo XC40 comes down to personal driving preferences and lifestyle needs. For those prioritizing cutting-edge electrification and nimble dynamics, the Junior offers a compelling blend of electric and conventional powertrains. On the other hand, the XC40 presents a case for those drawn to Scandinavian simplicity, robust safety features, and a straightforward petrol setup that doesn't compromise on performance.
Both vehicles stand as worthy representatives of their brand philosophies, ensuring excitement and innovation continue to drive the compact SUV market forward.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Alfa Romeo Junior has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the Volvo XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 10662 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Alfa Romeo Junior manages with 4.80 L and is therefore clearly perceptible more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.50 L. The difference is about 1.70 L per 100 km.
Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.
When it comes to engine power, the Alfa Romeo Junior has a distinct edge – offering 280 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 83 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Alfa Romeo Junior is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 5.90 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 1.70 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the Alfa Romeo Junior performs a bit better – reaching 206 km/h, while the Volvo XC40 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 26 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Alfa Romeo Junior pulls somewhat stronger with 345 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 45 Nm difference.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Alfa Romeo Junior is noticeable lighter – 1380 kg compared to 1688 kg. The difference is around 308 kg.
In terms of boot space, the Volvo XC40 offers barely noticeable more room – 452 L compared to 415 L. That’s a difference of about 37 L.
In maximum load capacity, the Volvo XC40 performs minimal better – up to 1328 L, which is about 48 L more than the Alfa Romeo Junior.
When it comes to payload, Volvo XC40 clearly perceptible takes the win – 532 kg compared to 420 kg. That’s a difference of about 112 kg.
The Alfa Romeo Junior proves to be wins the duel decisively and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Alfa Romeo Junior is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ Alfa Romeo / Stellantis Media
The Alfa Romeo Junior captures the essence of Italian design with its sleek lines and compact dimensions, making it an icon of elegance and performance. With a spirited driving experience and a charming retro aesthetic, it appeals to enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. This delightful car embodies the brand's rich heritage while remaining a fun and engaging option for those seeking a unique automotive experience.
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@ Alfa Romeo / Stellantis Media
@ Alfa Romeo / Stellantis Media
@ Alfa Romeo / Stellantis Media
The Volvo XC40 wraps Scandinavian minimalism into a compact, city-ready SUV with a premium cabin that feels both practical and grown-up. It will suit buyers who prize safety, clever storage and a composed ride, proving that small dimensions don't mean small personality.
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@ Volvo Cars
@ Volvo Cars
@ Volvo Cars
@ Volvo Cars
@ Volvo Cars
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@ Alfa Romeo / Stellantis Media
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@ Volvo Cars
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Costs and Consumption |
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|---|---|
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Price
26100 - 41600 £
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Price
36800 - 47200 £
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Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 5.4 L
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Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
15.1 - 17.5 kWh
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
344 - 410 km
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
0.4 - 51 kWh
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
0 - 119 g/km
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co2
147 - 148 g/km
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|
Fuel tank capacity
44 - 45 L
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Fuel tank capacity
54 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1380 - 1689 kg
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Curb weight
1688 kg
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Trunk capacity
340 - 415 L
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Trunk capacity
452 L
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Length
4173 mm
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Length
4425 mm
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Width
1781 mm
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Width
1863 mm
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Height
1505 - 1538 mm
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Height
1652 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1205 - 1280 L
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Max trunk capacity
1328 L
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Payload
390 - 420 kg
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Payload
532 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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|
Power HP
136 - 280 HP
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Power HP
163 - 197 HP
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|
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 9.1 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
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|
Max Speed
150 - 206 km/h
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Max Speed
180 km/h
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Torque
230 - 345 Nm
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Torque
265 - 300 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
107 - 207 kW
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Power kW
120 - 145 kW
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Engine capacity
1199 cm3
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Engine capacity
1969 cm3
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General |
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|---|---|
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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Model Year
2024
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A, C, D
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E
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Brand
Alfa Romeo
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Brand
Volvo
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Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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