Driven: 2020 Volvo XC40
There are very few car brands that hold as much heritage as Volvo. The Swedish brand's origins date all the way back to 1927. These days seeing a Volvo on the streets is becoming more of a common thing as people seem to be wanting them a lot more these days. We recently got to drive the new Volvo XC40 and let me just say that it does live up to its raving appraisals. Many have called the Volvo XC40 the best from its current line-up, at one point even winning the European Car of the Year in 2018.
We recently got to spend some time with the new XC40 and let's just say it lives up to all it was promised to be. For starters, the exterior design is simple and elegant. The outside of the XC40 and is quite like its previous model, both weighing the same and being almost identical in appearance. The XC40 comes with a gloss black grille in the front as well as other gloss black bits that can be seen around the car. The side does feature some with a small side glass area, as well as stretched octagonal cut-outs in the lower body. The XC40 does offer optional roofs, customers can choose between a sunroof, moonroof, and panoramic roof.
In terms of engine capacity. The Volvo XC40 is available in two different variations, first, we have the T3 variation which is powered 1.5-litre engine that produces 120kW of power. While the T5 variation is a bigger 2.0-litre and produces 182kW of power. Of course, the T3 variation is my obvious pick, and that’s simply because of its fuel-efficiency, and excellent value for money. The XC40 rides on 18-inch black diamond-cut alloy wheels, which gives the SUV a sportier edge.
Driving the new XC40 felt very much like the previous model, but I guess the only way to fully appreciate the new upgrades, is inside of the cabin. The XC40 is a spacious five-seater and comes with all the luxury features one would expect from a Volvo. Inside we have a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, which makes driving feel more comfortable. Standard features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and instead of leather seats, we now have clothed seats. It also comes with power child locks for the rear doors, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, as well as heated windshield wiper blades.
To say that the 2020 XC40 didn’t make me feel like I’m driving the 2019 XC40 would be a lie because it did. Either way, the XC40 remains an in-demand SUV, it's small, compact, and practical in every way. The XC40 starts at a price tag of R489 500 with pricing differing throughout the range. The Volvo XC40 may not be as performance-based as its competitor the BMW X2, but its charming and smart interior certainly makes for an overall great SUV.
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 2020 Volvo XC40 cost in South Africa?
The 2020 Volvo XC40 T3 starts from around R599,900 while the more powerful T5 variant kicks off at approximately R699,900, making it a premium choice in the compact luxury SUV segment.
Q: Is the 2020 Volvo XC40 worth buying?
Absolutely, the XC40 delivers exceptional build quality, impressive safety features, and that distinctive Scandinavian design that won it European Car of the Year in 2018, justifying its premium price tag.
Q: What engine options are available in the Volvo XC40?
The XC40 comes in two flavours: the T3 with a 1.5-litre engine producing 120kW, and the T5 packing a 2.0-litre unit that churns out 182kW of power for those wanting more grunt.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Volvo XC40 T3?
The T3 variant delivers excellent fuel efficiency at around 6.4 litres per 100km, making it the sensible choice for daily driving while still offering decent performance for South African conditions.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Volvo XC40 in South Africa?
The XC40 goes head-to-head with the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Mercedes-Benz GLA, but stands out with superior safety ratings and that unmistakable Swedish minimalist interior design.
Should You Buy It?
The best compact luxury SUV under R650,000 in South Africa is definitely the 2020 Volvo XC40 T3. At R599,900, you're getting European Car of the Year pedigree, legendary Volvo safety, and fuel consumption that won't leave your wallet crying at the petrol station. The T3's 120kW is more than adequate for South African roads, and honestly, unless you're planning to tow a boat up the Drakensberg every weekend, save yourself the R100,000 and skip the T5. Yes, you should absolutely buy the XC40 T3 if you want a premium SUV that's practical, safe, and won't depreciate faster than your braai meat on Heritage Day.
