Volvo's new XC40 compact crossover has achieved a Euro NCAP score of 5 stars - joining its larger siblings in the 60 and 90 series as one of the safest cars in the world.
Last year, the XC60 was crowned the overall best-performing large off-roader and the best overall performer in the prestigious Euro NCAP 2017 Best in Class safety awards. The XC90 received the same accolade in 2015.
The 2018 Euro NCAP testing was the toughest ever with new and more demanding challenges on safety technology, including cyclist-detection with auto-brake and emergency lane keeping systems. Overall, the new XC40 received the highest safety score among all cars tested under the new and more stringent evaluation system.
"The new XC40 is one of the safest cars on the market," said Malin Ekholm, head of Volvo Cars Safety Centre. "It comes standard with the most comprehensive offering of safety technology of any small SUV, helping drivers detect and avoid collisions, remain safely in their lane and reduce the impact of accidentally running off the road."
Volvo has priced the luxurious XC40 - the current European Car of the Year - from R489 536, as it goes up against rivals like the BMW X2, the Jaguar E-Pace, the Audi Q2, the Mercedes-Benz GLA, and the Range Rover Evoque to name a few.
Also worth a look: the 315kW of Swedish Grit: The Volvo EX30 Cross Country Revealed and the Volvo EX90: The Future of Safety Lands in SA in 2025.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volvo XC40 cost in South Africa?
The Volvo XC40 starts from R489,536 in South Africa, positioning it as a premium compact crossover that competes directly with the BMW X2, Audi Q2, and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Q: Is the Volvo XC40 worth buying for safety?
Absolutely, the XC40 earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and achieved the highest safety score among all cars tested under the new, more stringent evaluation system in 2018.
Q: What safety features does the Volvo XC40 have?
The XC40 comes standard with cyclist-detection with auto-brake, emergency lane keeping systems, collision avoidance technology, and the most comprehensive safety package of any small SUV in its class.
Q: How does the Volvo XC40 compare to competitors like BMW X2 and Audi Q2?
The XC40 stands out with superior safety credentials, earning European Car of the Year honours, while offering more standard safety technology than rivals like the BMW X2, Audi Q2, Jaguar E-Pace, and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Q: Why is the Volvo XC40 considered one of the safest cars?
The XC40 joins Volvo's award-winning XC60 and XC90 models as one of the safest cars globally, with advanced safety systems that help detect and avoid collisions, maintain lane position, and reduce off-road accident impact.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the Volvo XC40 at R489,536 is absolutely worth buying if safety is your priority. This compact crossover delivers the highest safety score in its class while offering European Car of the Year pedigree and Volvo's legendary build quality. At under R500,000, you're getting world-class safety technology that outperforms more expensive rivals like the Range Rover Evoque, making the XC40 the smartest choice for families who refuse to compromise on protection. It's the best safety-focused compact SUV under R550,000 in South Africa.
