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Volvo XC40 vs Renault R4 – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Volvo XC40 or Renault R4 fits your lifestyle better.

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

XC40 @ media.volvocars.com

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Renault R4 has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 25200 £, while the Volvo XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 11562 £.

Engine and Performance:

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 Volvo XC40 has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 197 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 47 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Volvo XC40 is barely noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 7.60 s, while the Renault R4 takes 8.20 s. That’s about 0.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Volvo XC40 performs a bit better – reaching 180 km/h, while the Renault R4 tops out at 150 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Volvo XC40 pulls somewhat stronger with 300 Nm compared to 245 Nm. That’s about 55 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

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, Renault R4 is slightly lighter – 1485 kg compared to 1688 kg. The difference is around 203 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Volvo XC40 offers barely noticeable more room – 452 L compared to 420 L. That’s a difference of about 32 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault R4 performs slight better – up to 1405 L, which is about 77 L more than the Volvo XC40.

When it comes to payload, Volvo XC40 to a small extent takes the win – 532 kg compared to 443 kg. That’s a difference of about 89 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Volvo XC40 proves to be offers a more balanced package and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Volvo XC40 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £36,800
223202_XC40_Inscription_-_exterior

Volvo XC40

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 163 - 197 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 6.50 L
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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.

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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

Renault R4

The Renault R4, affectionately known as the "R4," is a quintessential symbol of French automotive simplicity and practicality. This classic compact car, originally introduced in the early 1960s, won over numerous enthusiasts with its versatile design and dependable performance. Its no-frills charm and robust build made it a beloved choice for rural drivers and city dwellers alike, cementing its status as an iconic piece of automotive history.

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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.
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Volvo XC40
Renault R4
XC40

Costs and Consumption
Price
36800 - 47200 £
Price
25200 - 31200 £
Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.2 - 15.1 kWh
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
308 - 409 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
40 - 52 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
1485 - 1537 kg
Trunk capacity
452 L
Trunk capacity
420 L
Length
4425 mm
Length
4144 mm
Width
1863 mm
Width
1808 mm
Height
1652 mm
Height
1552 mm
Max trunk capacity
1328 L
Max trunk capacity
1405 L
Payload
532 kg
Payload
410 - 443 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
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Power HP
122 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.2 - 9.2 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
150 km/h
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Torque
225 - 245 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Power kW
90 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1969 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Volvo
Brand
Renault

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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.