26Oct
After earning numerous awards as a new car, the Volvo XC40 has now been celebrated for its standout features in the pre-owned market. It has secured the titles of Used Car of the Year and Used SUV of the Year in the What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards.
The judges were thoroughly impressed, highlighting the XC40’s diverse powertrain options, high-quality interior, refinement, and practical family-friendly design. It all comes together to offer exceptional value for money for used car buyers.
Rob Deane, Volvo Car UK’s Commercial Operations Director, said: “The qualities that have made the XC40 such a great success for us in the new car market are proving equally appealing to customers looking for a used car – an area where value for money and peace of mind are also crucial considerations. These factors have helped earn our great SUV this much-appreciated award.”
See also:
US News & World Report Names Mazda CX-30 The Top Subcompact SUV For 2023/24
The Volvo XC40: A Brief History
2018 Volvo XC40 - Image Credit: MotorTrend
The Volvo XC40 subcompact luxury crossover SUV has made a significant impact since its introduction. The XC40 was unveiled on September 21, 2017, as Volvo’s smallest SUV, positioned below the XC60. It was developed in collaboration with Geely, the Chinese company that owns Volvo. Production began in November 2017. The design, led by Thomas Ingenlath, was previewed by the Concept 40.1.
The XC40 is built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, shared with other models like the Polestar 2 and Lynk & Co 01. Initially, the XC40 was available with petrol and diesel engines. In 2019, a plug-in hybrid model was introduced, followed by a fully electric version in 2020, known as the XC40 Recharge.
Awards aren’t new to this XC40. It received the European Car of the Year Award at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show and was named Car of the Year Japan for 2018/2019. In 2024, Volvo renamed the electric version to the EX40, aligning it with newer electric models like the EX30 and EX90.
A coupe version, initially called the C40 Recharge, was also introduced and later renamed to the EC40. The XC40 continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a stylish, compact SUV with a range of powertrain options, including hybrid and electric variants.
What’s Special About The Volvo XC40
2018 Volvo XC40 - Image Credit: Pinterest
The Volvo XC40 stands out in the crowded subcompact luxury SUV market with several unique features that set it apart from its competitors:
Google Built-In:
The XC40 comes with Google services integrated directly into the infotainment system. This includes Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play Store, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience.
City Safety System:
Volvo’s advanced safety suite, known as City Safety, is standard on the XC40. It includes features like collision avoidance, pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection, and automatic emergency braking. Such a comprehensive safety system is not always standard in competitors.
Pilot Assist:
This semi-autonomous driving feature helps with steering, acceleration, and braking on well-marked roads up to 80 mph. While many competitors offer adaptive cruise control, the combination of these features in Pilot Assist is a standout.
Innovative Storage Solutions:
The XC40 offers clever storage solutions, such as a removable waste bin in the center console, a fold-out hook for bags, and large door pockets designed to hold laptops or tablets. These practical touches are designed to enhance everyday usability.
Sensus Connect:
Volvo’s infotainment system, Sensus Connect, includes a 9-inch touchscreen with a portrait orientation, which is unique compared to the more common landscape screens in other vehicles. This layout can be more intuitive for navigation and other functions.
Sustainability Focus:
The XC40 Recharge, the electric version, uses sustainable materials throughout the interior, including carpets made from recycled plastic bottles. This focus on sustainability is a key differentiator in the market.
Volvo On Call:
This app-based service allows owners to remotely control various aspects of their vehicle, such as locking/unlocking doors, starting the engine, and checking fuel levels. It also provides emergency assistance and vehicle tracking.
See also:
Volvo Says All Of Its Vehicles Will Be Fully Electric By 2030, No Matter What
Why Buy A Used Volvo XC40?
2020 Volvo XC40 - Image Credit: The Similkameen Spotlight
Buying a used Volvo XC40 can be a smart decision for several reasons:
Depreciation Savings: Like most vehicles, the XC40 experiences significant depreciation in the first few years. By purchasing a used model, you can avoid the steepest part of this depreciation curve, getting more value for your money.
High Safety Standards: Volvo is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the XC40 is no exception. Even older models come equipped with advanced safety features like City Safety, which includes collision avoidance and pedestrian detection.
Luxurious and Practical Interior: The XC40 offers a well-designed interior with high-quality materials and innovative storage solutions. Features like a removable waste bin, large door pockets, and a fold-out hook for bags make it practical for everyday use.
Strong Reliability: The XC40 has a good reputation for reliability. Many owners report few issues, and Volvo’s build quality ensures that even used models remain dependable.
Advanced Technology: Even older XC40 models come with a range of tech features, including the Sensus Connect infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration.
Comfortable Ride: The XC40 is praised for its comfortable ride and handling. It strikes a good balance between being sporty and providing a smooth driving experience, making it suitable for both city driving and longer trips.
Sustainability: If you opt for a used XC40 Recharge (the electric version), you benefit from Volvo’s focus on sustainability, with interiors made from recycled materials.
Certified Pre-Owned Program: Volvo offers a robust Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program, which includes a comprehensive inspection, extended warranty, and roadside assistance. This can provide additional peace of mind when buying a used vehicle. So, a used Volvo XC40 is a compelling choice in the subcompact SUV market because it combines luxury, safety, and practicality in one package.
The Best Used Car Money Can Buy
2020 Volvo XC40 - Image Credit: Motor1
WhatCar? Named the Volvo XC40 the overall winner of its annual Used Car of the Year award, saying, “With its family-friendly practicality, upmarket interior, and impressive refinement the Volvo XC40 is a fantastic used buy.
Mark Pearson, What Car? Used Cars Editor, said: “For us, the XC40 is the supreme all-rounder – a reliable and desirable car that does so many things exceptionally well. You can have it as a petrol, diesel, hybrid or fully electric car, too, giving the used car buyer a variety of options. The fact that this immensely appealing family SUV should also be such great value when bought used just seals the deal for us.”
If you're looking to buy an XC40 or any pre-owned Volvo, the Volvo Selekt Approved Used service is the way to go. Every car goes through a thorough inspection with over 150 checks and comes with a 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Plus, the package includes MoT test cover for most items that might cause a failure, as well as 12 months of free roadside assistance in the UK and Europe. And if you're not completely satisfied, you can exchange your car for one of equal value within 30 days or 1,500 miles, thanks to the Volvo Selekt Approved Used satisfaction guarantee.
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