@ Volvo Cars

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Volvo EX40 vs VW Golf – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Q: What is the maximum horsepower of the Volvo EX40?

Up to 442 HP of power – depending on the configuration.

Q: What are the Volvo EX40’s WLTP consumption values in kWh/100 km?

According to the manufacturer, the Volvo EX40 requires 16.60 kWh.

Q: What is the electric driving range of the Volvo EX40?

The WLTP range is up to 576 km.

Q: What is the battery capacity of the Volvo EX40?

The Volvo EX40 comes with a 79 kWh battery.

Q: How fast can the Volvo EX40 go?

The Volvo EX40 reaches up to 180 km/h.

Q: How many liters of cargo space does the Volvo EX40 offer?

Depending on configuration, up to 410 L fit inside.

Q: How big is the Volvo EX40 overall?

Length 4440 mm, width 1863 mm, height 1647 mm – those are the dimensions of the Volvo EX40.

Q: What drivetrain options does the VW Golf have?

The VW Golf is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

Q: How much power does the VW Golf deliver on the road?

The VW Golf reaches a peak output of 333 HP, depending on the model.

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Volvo EX40 or VW Golf?

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Volvo EX40

VW Golf

EX40 @ Volvo Cars

Electric Power Meets Classic Versatility: Volvo EX40 vs. VW Golf

The automotive landscape is ever-evolving, and the emergence of electric vehicles has challenged traditional concepts of performance and efficiency. In this article, we pit two notable contenders against each other: the Volvo EX40, a fully electric SUV, and the VW Golf, a versatile hatchback available with a range of powertrains. Both represent the ethos of their brands but in radically different ways.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Body Type

The Volvo EX40 is an SUV through and through, reflecting a sleek yet robust design, typical of the modern electric lineup. Measuring 4440 mm in length, with a width of 1863 mm and a height of 1647 mm, the EX40 exudes a commanding road presence. Its spacious interior offers ample room with a trunk capacity of 410 L.

In contrast, the VW Golf is a compact hatchback with a refined design. Its dimensions—4289 mm in length, 1789 mm in width, and a height of 1471 mm—highlight its compactness and maneuverability, perfect for city driving. When it comes to trunk space, the Golf offers between 273 L and 381 L, depending on the variant, balancing practicality and style.

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EX40 @ Volvo Cars

Power and Performance

Volvo's EX40 is an all-electric powerhouse, available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive options. Depending on the variant, the EX40 delivers between 238 to 408 HP with torque reaching up to 670 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 4.6 seconds, with a top speed capped at 180 km/h. With a remarkable electric range of up to 576 km, it redefines efficiency in the SUV category.

The VW Golf, a stalwart in the hatchback segment, offers a diverse range of engine options, from petrol MHEV to plugin hybrids. Its power spans from 116 HP to 333 HP in its performance variant, with acceleration capabilities ranging from 4.6 to 10.2 seconds for a 0 to 100 km/h dash. The Golf's top speed can reach an exhilarating 270 km/h, depending on the engine choice. It's a hallmark of versatility and performance.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

As a fully electric vehicle, the Volvo EX40 boasts zero CO2 emissions, placing it in the top-level CO2 efficiency class A. It consumes between 16.6 to 17.6 kWh/100 km, reflecting the cutting-edge efficiency of Volvo's electric powertrain technology.

On the other hand, the Golf's eco-credentials vary with its engine options. While its hybrid versions offer a low CO2 footprint, the petrol and diesel engines range from efficiency classes B to F. The plugin hybrid version boasts an electric range of up to 143 km, showcasing Volkswagen's commitment to reducing emissions.

EX40 @ Volvo Cars

Technological Innovations

Volvo equips the EX40 with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced driver assistance systems, seamless infotainment, and connectivity features. It's designed for a modern, high-tech lifestyle, ensuring passengers enjoy a premium driving experience.

The VW Golf, with its rich legacy, continues to innovate with adaptive cruise control, park assist, and a digital cockpit. Its infotainment system is intuitive and keeps drivers connected, maintaining its status as a staple in practical technology.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion

Both the Volvo EX40 and VW Golf captivate with their unique strengths. The EX40 is a beacon of electric luxury and performance, ideal for those seeking a sustainable yet powerful drive. Meanwhile, the VW Golf remains an emblem of versatile engineering and timeless appeal. Your choice will depend on whether you prioritize cutting-edge electric mobility or the tried-and-true versatility of a classic hatchback.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

VW Golf has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 25200 £, while the Volvo EX40 costs 42800 £. That’s a price difference of around 17653 £.

As for range, the Volvo EX40 performs convincingly better – achieving up to 576 km, about 433 km more than the VW Golf.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Volvo EX40 has a noticeable edge – offering 442 HP compared to 333 HP. That’s roughly 109 HP more horsepower.

Both models accelerate almost equally fast – 4.60 s from 0 to 100 km/h.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Volvo EX40 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 90 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Volvo EX40 pulls evident stronger with 670 Nm compared to 420 Nm. That’s about 250 Nm difference.

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Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Golf is convincingly lighter – 1307 kg compared to 2040 kg. The difference is around 733 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Volvo EX40 offers slight more room – 410 L compared to 381 L. That’s a difference of about 29 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Volvo EX40 performs to a small extent better – up to 1400 L, which is about 163 L more than the VW Golf.

When it comes to payload, VW Golf barely noticeable takes the win – 508 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 28 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Volvo EX40 shows itself to be dominates this comparison and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

Volvo EX40

VW Golf

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Price

Electric Range

Battery Capacity

co2

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Power HP

Max Speed

Torque

Power kW

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Curb weight

Trunk capacity

Max trunk capacity

Payload

from about £42,800

@ Volvo Cars

Volvo EX40

Price : 42800 - 58200 £
Body Type : SUV
Engine Type : Electric
Transmission : Automatic
Transmission Detail : Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP : 238 - 442 HP
Consumption kWh/100km : 16.6 - 17.6 kWh
Electric Range : 480 - 576 km
Battery Capacity : 67 - 79 kWh
Seats : 5
Acceleration 0-100km/h : 4.6 - 7.3 s
Model Year : 2024
Max Speed : 180 km/h
Torque : 420 - 670 Nm
Doors : 5
Model : EX40
Modell : EX40 Single Motor, EX40 Single Motor Extended Range, EX40 Twin Motor, EX40 Twin Motor Performance
CO2 Efficiency Class : A
Trim Level : Core, Essential, Plus Black Edition, Plus Dark, Core AWD, Ultra Black Edition, Ultra Dark, Plus Black Edition AWD, Plus Dark AWD, Ultra Black Edition AWD, Ultra Dark AWD
Power kW : 175 - 325 kW
co2 : 0 g/km
Curb weight : 2040 - 2170 kg
Trunk capacity : 410 L
Length : 4440 mm
Width : 1863 mm
Height : 1647 mm
Brand : Volvo
Max trunk capacity : 1286 - 1400 L
Payload : 430 - 480 kg

details

Volvo EX40

The Volvo EX40 wraps Scandinavian calm and clever practicality into a compact electric package that feels both premium and refreshingly uncomplicated. It's the grown-up answer to flashier rivals — a safe, comfy, and city-friendly EV with thoughtful tech that makes everyday driving quietly satisfying.

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@ Volvo Cars

@ Volvo Cars

308521_Rear-wheel_drive_more_range_and_faster_charging_for_fully_electric_Volvo

@ Volvo Cars

VW Golf

The VW Golf remains the everyman’s favourite — cleverly balanced, composed and just posh enough to feel grown-up without pretending to be something it’s not. It slips through town and eats up longer trips with a refined cabin, practical layout and a kindly, capable character that turns everyday driving into something a little bit special.

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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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Volvo EX40

@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Skoda Elroq

Think of the Volvo EX40 as the cool, safety-obsessed Swede — minimalist cabin, clever tech and a calm, premium feel — while the Skoda Elroq is all about everyday practicality: roomy, sensible and great value for money. Want Scandinavian refinement and understated luxury? Pick the EX40; want space, …

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Golf

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW T-Roc

The VW Golf still sets the benchmark in the compact class — a composed, all‑round hatch that rewards drivers with precise steering, efficient engines and sensible practicality for daily life. The VW T‑Roc trades a bit of that pinch‑perfect poise for SUV style, a higher seating position and a …

Volvo EX40

VW Golf

@ Volvo Cars	@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption
Price 42800 - 58200 £	Price 25200 - 47600 £
Consumption L/100km -	Consumption L/100km 1.1 - 8.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km 16.6 - 17.6 kWh	Consumption kWh/100km -
Electric Range 480 - 576 km	Electric Range 131 - 143 km
Battery Capacity 67 - 79 kWh	Battery Capacity 19.70 kWh
co2 0 g/km	co2 25 - 184 g/km
Fuel tank capacity -	Fuel tank capacity 40 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type SUV	Body Type Hatchback
Seats 5	Seats 5
Doors 5	Doors 5
Curb weight 2040 - 2170 kg	Curb weight 1307 - 1662 kg
Trunk capacity 410 L	Trunk capacity 273 - 381 L
Length 4440 mm	Length 4282 - 4296 mm
Width 1863 mm	Width 1789 mm
Height 1647 mm	Height 1454 - 1483 mm
Max trunk capacity 1286 - 1400 L	Max trunk capacity 1129 - 1237 L
Payload 430 - 480 kg	Payload 438 - 508 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type Electric	Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission Automatic	Transmission Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail Reduction Gearbox	Transmission Detail Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive	Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP 238 - 442 HP	Power HP 116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h 4.6 - 7.3 s	Acceleration 0-100km/h 4.6 - 10.2 s
Max Speed 180 km/h	Max Speed 202 - 270 km/h
Torque 420 - 670 Nm	Torque 220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders -	Number of Cylinders 4
Power kW 175 - 325 kW	Power kW 85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity -	Engine capacity 1498 - 1984 cm3