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Volvo XC40 vs Volvo EX40 comparison

Compare performance (197 HP vs 442 HP), boot space and price (41,900 £ vs 45,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Volvo XC40 or Volvo EX40?

Volvo XC40 vs Volvo EX40: Key differences

Volvo XC40

5 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • only slightly cheaper
  • clearly lighter
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Volvo EX40

4.5 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly more power
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

XC40

Volvo EX40 vs Volvo XC40: which compact Volvo suits your life?

The Volvo EX40 and Volvo XC40 look like siblings, but they go about everyday driving in very different ways. The EX40 is a calm, punchy electric take on this compact SUV formula, while the XC40 sticks to a smooth petrol mild‑hybrid with the easy familiarity of quick refuelling. In this Volvo EX40 VS Volvo XC40 comparison, the differences show up less in spec sheets and more in how each car feels on your commute, school runs and motorway hauls. We focus on character, comfort, usability and long‑distance behavior to help you choose the one that genuinely fits your routine.

EX40

Driving character and ride comfort

The Volvo EX40 delivers instant, seamless shove and deep quiet, setting a relaxed tone that makes traffic feel less stressful. Its extra weight lends a settled, grown‑up ride, but the steering and handling are tuned for calm rather than playfulness. The Volvo XC40 is also comfort‑first, with easygoing responses and a gentle, familiar flow from its engine and auto gearbox. If you want serene surge and near‑silence, the EX40 feels more soothing; if you prefer the unhurried, classic feel of a light, smooth petrol drive, the XC40 hits that brief more naturally. On both, choosing smaller wheels keeps the ride more supple in town.

XC40

Cabin feel and tech experience

Both Volvos serve up that clean, Scandinavian cabin vibe with supportive seats and solid perceived quality. The Volvo EX40 feels more modern in ambiance thanks to its hushed powertrain and Google‑based infotainment that can plan charging stops, though software can occasionally be finicky and some functions sit deep in menus. The Volvo XC40 uses the same Google backbone but comes across more familiar: simpler to grasp at a glance, albeit with a smaller‑feeling interface and wired phone mirroring. Day to day, the EX40’s silence and seamless drive make the cabin feel more high‑end, while the XC40’s straightforward controls and conventional cues can be less distracting on the move. Tech‑focused buyers will appreciate the EX40’s native EV features; tech minimalists may gel more quickly with the XC40.

EX40

Space, storage and daily usability

As everyday tools, the Volvo EX40 and Volvo XC40 are equally easy to live with for four people and luggage. The EX40 adds EV‑specific practicality with a small front trunk and a flat, variable load floor that helps with messy errands. The XC40 answers with clever details like big door bins, bag hooks and a foldable cargo floor that makes shopping runs and school gear more manageable. Visibility is a touch better in the XC40, while the EX40 leans more on its cameras, which don’t look the sharpest. If you prize neat cabin storage and an easy view out, the XC40 has the edge; if you want flexible cargo tricks including a frunk, the EX40 feels smarter.

XC40

City ease and long‑distance manners

In town, the Volvo EX40 glides with one‑pedal convenience and light steering, making stop‑and‑go surprisingly relaxing, though switching regen settings lives in a menu. The Volvo XC40 counters with great all‑round visibility and the natural creep of a conventional drivetrain, which some find easier for tight parking and gentle maneuvers. On the motorway, the EX40 is impressively quiet and stable with confident assistance systems, but it asks you to plan charging, especially at higher cruising speeds. The XC40 is also calm and secure on long trips, and it removes route planning anxiety by refuelling anywhere, at the cost of more engine noise under load and higher fuel spend. If you embrace EV planning, the EX40 is a serene cruiser; if you want zero‑planning simplicity, the XC40 keeps life easy.

EX40

Costs, running and buyer fit

The Volvo XC40 typically starts lower on the price ladder and suits buyers who value simple ownership and traditional refuelling. The Volvo EX40 asks more upfront but can claw back costs with home charging, potential emissions‑zone perks and fewer wear‑and‑tear items, provided your charging access is convenient. High‑mileage drivers who dislike scheduling stops may find the XC40’s petrol setup more straightforward, while commuters with driveway charging will appreciate the EX40’s low‑stress, low‑noise efficiency in daily use. Think of it this way: choose the EX40 if you want an electric, ultra‑calm compact SUV that thrives on planned routines; pick the XC40 if you prefer lower entry costs and familiar, no‑planning practicality. With that in mind, the technical comparison below sets out how their powertrains and performance underpin these different ownership experiences.

Frequently compared as well

Audi Q4 e-tron
Volvo EX40
VS
Comparing the Audi Q4 e-tron and the Volvo EX40 pits two compact premium electric SUVs against each other: the Q4 e-tron brings Audi’s refined driving dynamics and a traditionally upscale cabin, while the EX40 focuses on minimalist Scandinavian design, safety, and efficiency. Choose the Q4 for a …
Volvo EX40
Volvo EX60
VS
Volvo’s EX40 and EX60 lock horns in a neatly staged duel: the nimble EX40 is a city-savvy, efficiency-first EV built for tight streets and savvy budgets, while the larger EX60 brings more space, stronger performance and longer range for family life and weekend escapes. Pick this showdown for a …

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

XC40

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Volvo XC40 is only slightly cheaper – starting at 41,900 £ , while the Volvo EX40 costs 45,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 3,343 £.

EX40

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 offers significantly more power – delivering 442 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 245 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Volvo EX40 is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 4.6 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.6 s. That’s about 3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Volvo EX40 delivers substantially more torque with 670 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 370 Nm more.

XC40

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 terms of curb weight, Volvo XC40 is clearly lighter – 1,688 kg compared to 2,040 kg. The difference is around 352 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Volvo XC40 carries very slightly more – 532 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 52 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Volvo EX40 is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £45,200
EX40

Volvo EX40

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 238 - 442 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 16.6 - 17.6 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 477 - 576 km
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Volvo XC40
Volvo EX40

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 blends Scandinavian design with practical versatility, offering a compact luxury crossover that feels composed and easy to live with. It’s refined and focused on safety with a high-quality interior, making it a smart choice for daily city driving and weekend escapes.

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Reviews Volvo XC40

5 (6 Reviews)
rate
Trentini Paolo
7 May 2026, 13:45:44

Delivered a few days ago — a radical change after 5 VW Golfs, most recently a T‑Roc.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
S. M.
20 Apr 2026, 09:07:56

Excellent

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Volvo EX40

The Volvo EX40 is a compact electric SUV that blends Scandinavian minimalism with a comfortable, high-quality interior suited to daily driving and longer trips. It prioritizes safety and intuitive technology, delivering a calm, refined experience that feels mature and easy to live with.

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Reviews Volvo EX40

4.5 (2 Reviews)
rate
Bent
16 May 2026, 19:14:01

Stable car and generally good build quality — but I hate the Google and infotainment systems, which both seem designed to irritate the user as much as possible.
I'm looking at a Toyota B4ZX AWD when the lease on my EX40 expires. I need to be able to tow 1,500 kg, but without going broke.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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VS
The Hyundai Tucson turns heads with bold styling, generous kit and wallet-friendly practicality, while the Volvo XC40 answers with crisp Scandinavian design, a cosseting cabin and a premium badge that justifies the extra euros. If you want bang-for-buck family usability and lots of equipment go …
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In one corner the burly, tech-heavy Ford Explorer EV tries to translate American SUV swagger into electric range and cargo-flex practicality, while the polished Volvo EX40 delivers Scandinavian poise, efficient packaging and a safety-first, city-friendly footprint. If you crave roomy presence and …
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The Volvo C40 and Volvo XC40 are closely related compact Volvos that deliver strong safety, premium interiors and modern tech, but they take different routes: the C40 is a coupe‑styled, electric‑first model focused on design and emission‑free driving, while the XC40 is a more conventional SUV …
Skoda Karoq
Volvo XC40
VS
The Skoda Karoq is the sensible, spacious family SUV that puts practicality and value first — roomy boot, low running costs and a no-nonsense interior that feels built to last. The Volvo XC40, by contrast, serves up Scandi style, sharper tech and a more premium cabin (plus safety kit you can brag …
BMW iX1
Volvo EX40
VS
The BMW iX1 drives like a compact thriller—sporty, agile and bristling with tech—whereas the Volvo EX40 is pure Scandinavian calm, prioritising safety, space and a serene electric ride. Choose the iX1 if you want sharper handling and more driver engagement; pick the EX40 if you’d rather have peace …
Volvo XC40
Volvo EX40

Costs and Consumption
Price
41,900 - 46,100 £
Price
45,200 - 58,200 £
Consumption L/100km
6.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
16.6 - 17.6 kWh/100km
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
477 - 576 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
148 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,688 kg
Curb weight
2,040 - 2,170 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
410 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,863 mm
Width
1,863 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
532 kg
Payload
430 - 480 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
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Power HP
238 - 442 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.3 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Torque
420 - 670 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Power kW
175 - 325 kW
Engine capacity
1,969 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Volvo
Brand
Volvo
What drive types are available for the Volvo XC40?

The Volvo XC40 is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.