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

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Volvo XC40 or VW Passat?

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.

VW Passat has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35700 £, while the Volvo XC40 costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 1028 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Passat manages with 0.30 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Volvo XC40 with 6.50 L. The difference is about 6.20 L per 100 km.

Passat @ volkswagen-newsroom.com

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 VW Passat has a evident edge – offering 272 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 75 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Passat is noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 5.80 s, while the Volvo XC40 takes 7.60 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Passat performs clearly perceptible 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 Passat pulls evident stronger with 400 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

XC40 @ media.volvocars.com

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 curb weight, VW Passat is barely noticeable lighter – 1573 kg compared to 1688 kg. The difference is around 115 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Passat offers clearly perceptible more room – 690 L compared to 452 L. That’s a difference of about 238 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Passat performs noticeable better – up to 1920 L, which is about 592 L more than the Volvo XC40.

When it comes to payload, VW Passat slight takes the win – 577 kg compared to 532 kg. That’s a difference of about 45 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the VW Passat shows itself to be dominates this comparison and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £35,700
DB2019AU00685_large

VW Passat

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.3 - 8 L
  • Electric Range : 124 - 133 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

VW Passat

The VW Passat is a staple in the family saloon segment, known for its refined design and practicality. It effortlessly combines a comfortable ride with a spacious interior, making it a popular choice for long journeys. The cabin features high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system, providing a premium feel without sacrificing user-friendliness.

details
DB2019AU00685_large @ volkswagen-newsroom.com
DB2019AU00698_large @ volkswagen-newsroom.com
DB2019AU00117_large @ volkswagen-newsroom.com
DB2019AU00642_large @ volkswagen-newsroom.com

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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
VW Passat
XC40
Passat

Costs and Consumption
Price
36800 - 47200 £
Price
35700 - 58500 £
Consumption L/100km
6.50 L
Consumption L/100km
0.3 - 8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
124 - 133 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
147 - 148 g/km
co2
7 - 181 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
54 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 66 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1688 kg
Curb weight
1573 - 1858 kg
Trunk capacity
452 L
Trunk capacity
510 - 690 L
Length
4425 mm
Length
4917 mm
Width
1863 mm
Width
1849 mm
Height
1652 mm
Height
1521 mm
Max trunk capacity
1328 L
Max trunk capacity
1770 - 1920 L
Payload
532 kg
Payload
501 - 577 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
163 - 197 HP
Power HP
122 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 8.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 10.7 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
212 - 250 km/h
Torque
265 - 300 Nm
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
120 - 145 kW
Power kW
90 - 200 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
B, G, D, E
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.