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Volvo XC40 vs Polestar 4 – Differences & prices compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Volvo XC40 or Polestar 4 fits your lifestyle better.

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

XC40 @ media.volvocars.com

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.

Volvo XC40 has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 36800 £, while the Polestar 4 costs 53100 £. That’s a price difference of around 16295 £.

4 @ media.polestar.com

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Polestar 4 has a decisively edge – offering 544 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 347 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Polestar 4 is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 3.80 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 3.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Polestar 4 performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 200 km/h, while the Volvo XC40 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Polestar 4 pulls significantly stronger with 686 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 386 Nm difference.

XC40 @ media.volvocars.com

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Volvo XC40 is noticeable lighter – 1688 kg compared to 2230 kg. The difference is around 542 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Polestar 4 offers to a small extent more room – 526 L compared to 452 L. That’s a difference of about 74 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Polestar 4 performs somewhat better – up to 1536 L, which is about 208 L more than the Volvo XC40.

When it comes to payload, Volvo XC40 to a small extent takes the win – 532 kg compared to 455 kg. That’s a difference of about 77 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Polestar 4 proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Polestar 4 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £53,100
7458E184-FE1C-49CD-8688-8D9AD87DD167

Polestar 4

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 272 - 544 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 17.8 - 18.7 kWh
  • Electric Range : 590 - 620 km
details

Volvo XC40

5 (1)
rate

The Volvo XC40 is a standout model in the compact SUV segment, offering a delightful blend of Scandinavian design and practicality. Its interior is both stylish and functional, featuring premium materials and innovative storage solutions that make every journey comfortable. The car's performance is smooth and responsive, with advanced safety features ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

details
223202_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior @ media.volvocars.com
223206_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior @ media.volvocars.com
223200_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior @ media.volvocars.com
265601_XC40_Recharge_Plug-In_Hybrid_R-Design_Leather_Charcoal_in_Charcoal @ media.volvocars.com
265600_XC40_AWD_R-Design_expression_in_Crystal_White_Pearl @ media.volvocars.com

Polestar 4

The Polestar 4 embodies a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and sophisticated design, establishing itself as a prominent contender in the modern electric vehicle market. Its elegant exterior lines are complemented by an interior that prioritises both luxury and sustainability, offering a serene driving experience. With its focus on innovation, the Polestar 4 continues to push the boundaries of performance, setting a new standard for what an electric car can achieve.

details
7458E184-FE1C-49CD-8688-8D9AD87DD167 @ media.polestar.com
3ACA6B65-1C98-412F-9D32-588E078B6285 @ media.polestar.com
3634B075-6672-406F-B1C3-46F68F4A8DD7 @ media.polestar.com

Similar Comparisons

Ford Kuga
Volvo XC40
VS
The Ford Kuga is the zippier, more practical pick — roomy, better value and a bit more fun to drive — while the Volvo XC40 trades that scrappiness for a quieter, upmarket cabin, class-leading safety tech and unmistakable Scandinavian polish. If you want driving engagement and bang for your buck go Kuga; if you prefer a calmer, premium feel and a car that looks after you like a very fashionable safety blanket, choose the XC40.
Nissan Qashqai
Volvo XC40
VS
The Nissan Qashqai is the sensible, hard-working compact SUV that delivers excellent everyday comfort, clever interior space and strong value for money — perfect if you want a reliable family car without the premium price tag. The Volvo XC40, by contrast, is a sharper, more upscale choice with a plush cabin, class-leading safety tech and Scandinavian style, so pay extra if you want flair, refinement and that "I’m-driving-something-special" feeling.
Volvo XC40
Polestar 4
XC40
4

Costs and Consumption
Price
36800 - 47200 £
Price
53100 - 59900 £
Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
17.8 - 18.7 kWh
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
590 - 620 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
94 kWh
co2
147 - 148 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
54 L
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1688 kg
Curb weight
2230 - 2355 kg
Trunk capacity
452 L
Trunk capacity
526 L
Length
4425 mm
Length
4840 mm
Width
1863 mm
Width
2008 mm
Height
1652 mm
Height
1534 mm
Max trunk capacity
1328 L
Max trunk capacity
1536 L
Payload
532 kg
Payload
455 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Power HP
272 - 544 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 7.1 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
200 km/h
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Torque
343 - 686 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Power kW
200 - 400 kW
Engine capacity
1969 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
E
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Volvo
Brand
Polestar

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VS
The Polestar 4 throws a Scandinavian, coupe‑like silhouette and taut handling at you, feeling like the design‑obsessed, premium choice with crisp interior finishes and a surprisingly engaging drive. The Tesla Model Y, meanwhile, plays the utility card — roomier, cheaper to run on long trips thanks to Superchargers and blessed with software smarts — so pick the Polestar if you want emotion, the Model Y if you want everyday convenience and range.
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Choosing between the Volvo EX40 and XC40 is basically a choice between new‑school electric chic and old‑school SUV versatility: the EX40 is the fresh, all‑electric, city‑savvy compact with the latest tech and low running costs, while the XC40 is the tougher, more familiar compact that still offers petrol, hybrid and electric options plus proven practicality. Go for the EX40 if you want cutting‑edge EV efficiency and playful agility; pick the XC40 if you value versatility, a broader engine choice and tried‑and‑tested everyday usefulness.
Polestar 4
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Toyota Corolla Cross
Volvo XC40
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The Toyota Corolla Cross is the sensible, wallet-friendly compact SUV that delivers Toyota reliability, efficient engines and roomy practicality for everyday life, while the Volvo XC40 trades bargain-basement charm for premium materials, sharper handling and a cocoon of Scandinavian safety tech. If you want low running costs and uncomplicated usefulness, the Corolla Cross is your no-nonsense winner; if you prefer style, advanced driver aids and a badge that subtly screams “I care about safety (and design),” splurge on the XC40.
Polestar 4
ZEEKR 7X
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Volvo XC40
VW T-Roc
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In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Volvo XC40 stands out with its stylish Scandinavian design and commitment to safety, offering a serene driving experience complemented by a high-quality interior. On the other hand, the VW T-Roc impresses with its sportier dynamics and customizable features, appealing to drivers who prioritize a more engaging ride. Ultimately, the choice between the XC40 and T-Roc boils down to personal preferences in style, comfort, and driving experience.
Kia Sportage
Volvo XC40
VS
When comparing the Kia Sportage to the Volvo XC40, the Sportage impresses with its value-driven approach, offering a generous array of standard features and a bold design. On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 excels in luxury and safety, with its upscale interior and advanced driver assistance technologies. Both models cater to distinct preferences, with the Sportage appealing to the budget-conscious and the XC40 attracting those seeking premium refinement.
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In the competitive compact SUV segment, the CUPRA Terramar stands out with its sporty styling and performance-oriented features, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC40 offers a more refined interior and a strong emphasis on safety, making it an ideal choice for families. Both vehicles bring unique strengths to the table, catering to different preferences in the increasingly popular market.
What drive types are available for the Volvo XC40?

The Volvo XC40 is available as Front-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.