Volvo XC40 (2019) Review

If you're in the market for a stylish and robust compact SUV, the Volvo XC40 2019 might already be on your radar. After spending two years with it, I'm here to share my thoughts on whether it lives up to the hype. This model is the Inscription trim, which is pretty high-spec, with leather seats, a virtual cockpit, and plenty of tech – perfect for anyone who values comfort and luxury.

The Volvo XC40 2019 excels in comfort, design, and overall build quality.

Power and Performance

My XC40 came with the 2.0L D3 diesel engine paired with an automatic gearbox. It’s not the fastest, but it’s certainly no slouch either. Power delivery is smooth, and it handles everyday driving with ease – great for city commutes or motorway trips. The D3 offers a solid balance of power and efficiency, though don't expect to be blown away by its acceleration.

Fuel efficiency is decent, especially for a vehicle this size. Official figures say it should do around 57 MPG, but in real-world driving, I’ve been getting closer to 42-44 MPG on motorway runs. Around town, expect something in the high 30s if you're driving sensibly.

Gearbox: Over-Engineered or Just Right?

The automatic gearbox is silky smooth, but there’s one thing I really dislike – the gear selector. It’s not the traditional up-down lever we're used to; instead, you have to tap twice for drive or reverse. This system can be a bit of a headache, especially when you accidentally shift into manual mode, leaving you revving like a race car driver at a stoplight. I get that modern cars are embracing innovation, but sometimes, simplicity is better – if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Interior and Build Quality

The XC40’s interior feels premium, though there are a few areas where it could improve. Volvo has done a fantastic job with the design, especially the wood veneer with a matte finish on the dash. It’s a great touch that adds to the luxury feel. However, the abundance of piano black plastic is a disappointment. It scratches easily and shows every speck of dust and fingerprint.

The seats are comfortable, and the space inside is more than adequate for a compact SUV. There's plenty of tech on offer, too, with features like a large central display and a Harman Kardon sound system, which is fantastic (though I’m not sure it’s a huge leap from the standard system). It does, however, cost an extra £575, so keep that in mind if you're considering the upgrade.

Tech and Infotainment

This is where the XC40 starts to show some cracks. The infotainment system is good but not great. The audio and voice command functions are top-notch, but the sat-nav leaves a lot to be desired. Compared to the Audi system I had in my previous car, it’s a noticeable step down. The interface isn’t as user-friendly, and the graphics feel a little outdated. The fact that Apple CarPlay only takes up half the screen is a bit of a letdown, too.

For anyone familiar with Audi’s Google Maps-based system, Volvo’s feels like a significant downgrade. Volvo has improved things in the newer Polestar models with Android Auto integration, but this XC40 doesn’t benefit from that.

Driving Experience and Practicality

When it comes to driving dynamics, the Volvo XC40 strikes a good balance between comfort and handling. It’s not a sporty drive, which is fine for a compact SUV. The ride height gives you a commanding view of the road, and while it can feel a bit “boaty” around tight corners, it’s nothing unexpected for a car of this size. Visibility is generally good, though the thick rear pillars can create some blind spots. I’d definitely recommend opting for a reversing camera, even though parking sensors are standard.

The boot space is generous, and the electric tailgate makes loading and unloading a breeze. I did run into a small issue with the tailgate catch, which produced a rather embarrassing sound when opening – but this was fixed under warranty with no hassle.

Reliability and Maintenance

Over the two years I had the XC40, reliability was pretty solid, though I did experience a couple of hiccups. Once, the car’s battery mysteriously drained overnight. The dealership determined it was a minor software glitch, reset the system, and it hasn’t happened again. Other than that, the electric tailgate issue mentioned earlier was resolved without any drama.

As for servicing, the costs had been reasonable. The two minor services I had were priced at around £275 each.

Would I Buy the Volvo XC40 Again?

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV and have your eyes on the 2019 Volvo XC40, you’ll likely be comparing it to other premium options like the Audi Q3, Range Rover Evoque, or even the BMW X1. After two years with the XC40, I can confidently say I’d recommend it. It’s a well-built, comfortable, and stylish SUV that feels solid on the road. The design is eye-catching, and it has a certain Scandinavian charm that sets it apart from more traditional rivals.

Would I personally buy it again? Yes, but with some caveats. The infotainment system, specifically the sat-nav, is a clear weak spot compared to the competition, and the gear selector is a bit too clever for its own good. However, if you can overlook these minor gripes, the XC40 is a fantastic all-rounder.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for something that feels premium without the flashy badge of a Range Rover or BMW. Just be prepared to occasionally feel nostalgic for simpler tech setups, especially if you’re switching from an Audi.

Final Thoughts

The Volvo XC40 2019 excels in comfort, design, and overall build quality. It’s economical for its size, and while it’s not the most engaging car to drive, it handles the demands of daily life with ease. The infotainment system is functional but not groundbreaking, which might be a dealbreaker if you're tech-obsessed. However, for those who value practicality and a refined driving experience, the XC40 delivers in spades.

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