Volvo XC40 review

• For: Styling, superb cabin, choice of powertrains
• Against: Can get expensive, hesitant auto gearbox
• Verdict: An near-faultless take on the compact SUV recipe

With financial backing – but creative freedom – from its Chinese owner, Geely, Volvo has reinvented itself and built three outstanding SUVs. The XC40 is the smallest and arguably the best of the trio.

Launched in 2018, it won a string of awards, followed by a legion of admirers. It looks blockier than most compact SUVs, with hardly a line out of place.

Inside, the cabin exudes sophisticated Swedish cool, with cosseting seats, a large touchscreen media system and a relaxing ambience. You can add a splash of colour with Lava Orange carpets, which are more tasteful than they sound.

There’s also a range of powertrain options. The 129hp T2, 163hp T3 and 197hp B4 petrol mild-hybrids are the starting point, then XC40 Recharge is available as a 211hp plug-in hybrid or 408hp electric car. You can chose front- or four-wheel drive, too.

Unless you opt for the Recharge EV, which blasts to 62mph in just 4.9 seconds, the XC40 isn’t exciting to drive. But it makes up for that with smooth ride quite and a soothing, laid-back feel.

Prices get rather high once you tick a few option boxes, although that’s equally true of the Volvo’s German rivals.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2018
• Facelifted: TBC
• Due for replacement: TBC