@ Volvo Cars

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Volvo XC40 vs VW Golf – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Q: How powerful is the Volvo XC40's engine?

Up to 197 HP of power – depending on the configuration.

Q: What is the fuel consumption of the Volvo XC40 according to the manufacturer?

Based on WLTP testing, consumption is around 6.50 L.

Q: What maximum speed does the Volvo XC40 reach?

The Volvo XC40 reaches up to 180 km/h.

Q: What are the Volvo XC40’s length, width and height?

The Volvo XC40 measures 4425 mm long, 1863 mm wide and 1652 mm high.

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.

Q: What is the fuel consumption of the VW Golf according to the manufacturer?

Based on WLTP testing, consumption is around 1.10 L.

Q: How far can the VW Golf go on a full charge?

According to WLTP, the VW Golf can travel up to 143 km on a single charge.

Q: How many kWh does the VW Golf’s battery hold?

The battery capacity is 19.70 kWh.

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Volvo XC40 or VW Golf?

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XC40 @ Volvo Cars

As the automotive market continues to evolve, SUV and hatchback segments are two of the most competitive categories. Among the standout choices in these segments are the Volvo XC40 and the VW Golf. Both vehicles promise a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, but which one stands out? This comparison will delve into technical aspects and innovations of both offerings, helping potential buyers make an informed choice.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Overview: Body Types and Dimensions

The Volvo XC40 is designed as a stylish compact SUV, boasting a height of 1652 mm, length of 4425 mm, and a width of 1863 mm. With exceptional trunk capacity of 452 liters, it provides ample space for both passengers and cargo.

In contrast, the VW Golf remains a staple in the hatchback category. It measures approximately 4282 mm in length and 1789 mm in width, offering a more sporty and compact feel compared to the XC40. Its trunk capacity ranges between 273 to 381 liters, depending on the configuration, which still leaves a decent amount of space for everyday use.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Engine Options and Performance

When it comes to the heart of the vehicles, the XC40 is powered by a range of petrol mild hybrid engines with output options of 163 HP and 197 HP, translating to 120 kW and 145 kW respectively. The engine features a torque of up to 300 Nm, allowing the XC40 to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 7.6 seconds. With a maximum speed of 180 km/h, it remains competitive in its class.

The VW Golf, however, pulls ahead with a wider variety of powertrains. From petrol to diesel, and including both plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid options, the Golf utilizes engines boasting between 116 HP and a staggering 333 HP in high-performance variants. Its acceleration specifications are equally impressive, with the top-end models reaching 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. Moreover, the Golf can achieve maximum speeds up to 270 km/h in the upper performance tier.

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Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

Fuel consumption is a vital consideration for modern drivers. The XC40 showcases a consumption rate of 6.5 L/100 km, which may appeal to many SUV enthusiasts. Its CO2 emissions sit around 147-148 g/km, placing it in the CO2 efficiency class E.

Conversely, the VW Golf proves to be more efficient across its lineup, with some variants offering an impressive 4.3 L/100 km and CO2 emissions as low as 113 g/km. This means that the Golf may be the more environmentally conscious choice among the two, particularly in its diesel and hybrid configurations.

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the XC40 is characterized by a luxurious and modern Scandinavian design, featuring high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. With a seating capacity for 5, the XC40 ensures a comfortable ride for all passengers. Its subtle yet effective technological enhancements include a digital driver display, integrated navigation, and connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Golf’s interior continues to impress with its practicality mixed with a sporty edge. Touted for its ergonomic layout and high-quality finishes, the hatchback offers a similar seating capacity for five passengers. The technology package comes equipped with the latest infotainment system, advanced driver assistance features, and seamless smartphone integration. The customizable LED ambient lighting adds to the overall appeal, making it a cutting-edge choice as well.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Final Thoughts

In the battle of the Volvo XC40 vs. VW Golf, both models bring unique strengths to the table. The XC40 appeals to those seeking the versatility and elevated presence of an SUV, paired with a focus on comfort and luxury. Meanwhile, the VW Golf thrives on its agility, performance, and an extensive range of powertrains, appealing to those who appreciate a sporty driving experience.

Ultimately, the choice may come down to personal preference regarding body style and specific needs related to performance, fuel efficiency, and technology. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged allure of the XC40 or the dynamic nature of the Golf, both vehicles are commendable options in their respective domains.

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

XC40 @ Volvo Cars

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 XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 11567 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Golf manages with 1.10 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.50 L. The difference is about 5.40 L per 100 km.

Golf @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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 VW Golf has a convincingly edge – offering 333 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 136 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Golf is convincingly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.60 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 3 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf performs distinct better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Volvo XC40 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 90 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Golf pulls clearly perceptible stronger with 420 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 120 Nm difference.

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XC40 @ Volvo Cars

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, VW Golf is evident lighter – 1307 kg compared to 1688 kg. The difference is around 381 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Volvo XC40 offers to a small extent more room – 452 L compared to 381 L. That’s a difference of about 71 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Volvo XC40 performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1328 L, which is about 91 L more than the VW Golf.

When it comes to payload, Volvo XC40 slight takes the win – 532 kg compared to 508 kg. That’s a difference of about 24 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Golf proves to be dominates this comparison and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Golf is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £25,200

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Golf

Price : 25200 - 47600 £
Body Type : Hatchback
Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail : Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP : 116 - 333 HP
Consumption L/100km : 1.1 - 8.1 L
Electric Range : 131 - 143 km
Battery Capacity : 19.70 kWh
Seats : 5
Acceleration 0-100km/h : 4.6 - 10.2 s
Model Year : 2024 - 2025
Max Speed : 202 - 270 km/h
Torque : 220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders : 4
Doors : 5
Model : Golf
Modell : Golf 1.5 eTSI, Golf 1.5 TSI, Golf GTI Clubsport, Golf GTI, Golf R, Golf 2.0 TDI, Golf 2.0 TSI, Golf 1.5 eHybrid, Golf GTE
CO2 Efficiency Class : D, F, G, C, B
Trim Level : Life DSG, R-Line DSG, Style DSG, Life, R-Line, Style, DSG, 4MOTION DSG, ENERGY, ENERGY DSG, R-Line 4MOTION DSG, Style 4MOTION DSG, EDITION 50 DSG
Power kW : 85 - 245 kW
co2 : 25 - 184 g/km
Engine capacity : 1498 - 1984 cm3
Curb weight : 1307 - 1662 kg
Fuel tank capacity : 40 - 55 L
Trunk capacity : 273 - 381 L
Length : 4282 - 4296 mm
Width : 1789 mm
Height : 1454 - 1483 mm
Brand : VW
Max trunk capacity : 1129 - 1237 L
Payload : 438 - 508 kg

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Volvo XC40

5 (2)

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

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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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VW Golf

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Costs and Consumption
Price 36800 - 47200 £	Price 25200 - 47600 £
Consumption L/100km 6.50 L	Consumption L/100km 1.1 - 8.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km -	Consumption kWh/100km -
Electric Range -	Electric Range 131 - 143 km
Battery Capacity -	Battery Capacity 19.70 kWh
co2 147 - 148 g/km	co2 25 - 184 g/km
Fuel tank capacity 54 L	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 1688 kg	Curb weight 1307 - 1662 kg
Trunk capacity 452 L	Trunk capacity 273 - 381 L
Length 4425 mm	Length 4282 - 4296 mm
Width 1863 mm	Width 1789 mm
Height 1652 mm	Height 1454 - 1483 mm
Max trunk capacity 1328 L	Max trunk capacity 1129 - 1237 L
Payload 532 kg	Payload 438 - 508 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type Petrol MHEV	Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission Automatic	Transmission Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail Dual-Clutch Automatic	Transmission Detail Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive	Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP 163 - 197 HP	Power HP 116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h 7.6 - 8.6 s	Acceleration 0-100km/h 4.6 - 10.2 s
Max Speed 180 km/h	Max Speed 202 - 270 km/h
Torque 265 - 300 Nm	Torque 220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders 4	Number of Cylinders 4
Power kW 120 - 145 kW	Power kW 85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity 1969 cm3	Engine capacity 1498 - 1984 cm3