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Volvo XC40 vs VW Golf Variant – Which model is better for everyday use?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Volvo XC40 or VW Golf Variant 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.

VW Golf Variant has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the Volvo XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 10624 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Golf Variant manages with 4.30 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.50 L. The difference is about 2.20 L per 100 km.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen

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 Variant has a significantly 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 Variant is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.80 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 2.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf Variant performs distinct better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Volvo XC40 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.

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

XC40 @ media.volvocars.com

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, VW Golf Variant is distinct lighter – 1366 kg compared to 1688 kg. The difference is around 322 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Golf Variant offers evident more room – 611 L compared to 452 L. That’s a difference of about 159 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Golf Variant performs somewhat better – up to 1642 L, which is about 314 L more than the Volvo XC40.

When it comes to payload, VW Golf Variant minimal takes the win – 547 kg compared to 532 kg. That’s a difference of about 15 kg.

Who wins the race?

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

from about £26,100
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VW Golf Variant

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 333 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.3 - 8.2 L
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Volvo XC40

5 (1)
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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
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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

VW Golf Variant

The VW Golf Variant represents a seamless blend of practicality and style, catering to drivers who require extra space without compromising on aesthetics. Its refined design and spacious interior make it an ideal choice for families and individuals with an active lifestyle. With advanced technology and a smooth driving experience, this estate car continues to impress within its class.

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Similar Comparisons

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.
Ford Kuga
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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.
Volvo XC40
VW Golf Variant
XC40
Golf Variant

Costs and Consumption
Price
36800 - 47200 £
Price
26100 - 48700 £
Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 8.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
147 - 148 g/km
co2
114 - 185 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
54 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1688 kg
Curb weight
1366 - 1621 kg
Trunk capacity
452 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4425 mm
Length
4631 - 4651 mm
Width
1863 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1652 mm
Height
1462 - 1487 mm
Max trunk capacity
1328 L
Max trunk capacity
1624 - 1642 L
Payload
532 kg
Payload
489 - 547 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
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
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 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

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G, F, C
Brand
Volvo
Brand
VW

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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.