Buying a used Volvo XC40 

The Volvo XC40 is a fairly new Volvo model, which was first unveiled in 2017. Sitting in the small SUV or compact crossover SUV category, it won European Car of the Year and What Car? Car of the Year 2018 and was named 2018/19 Car of the Year Japan. This award-winning model is the UK’s most popular premium SUV thanks to its quality, distinct Volvo design que, enhanced safety, clever features and all-round practicality. If you’re considering buying a used Volvo XC40, read our buying guide on what models are on the market, which we recommend and what to look out for.

What models are available? 

Petrol and diesel

The Volvo XC40 is a sophisticated, well-styled small SUV that stands out against its rivals. It’s comfortable, has plenty of space for passengers, features a powerful and finely tuned engine and lots of safety features. The XC40 holds its value well, although even new it’s fairly priced compared to premium alternatives so buying a used model is still a great investment. The model was initially only released with standard petrol and diesel engines, followed by a hybrid and plug-in hybrid in 2019.

• 1.5L B3154 I3 Turbo Petrol: Three-cylinder engine
• 2.0L B4204 I4 Turbo Petrol: Four-cylinder engine
• 1.5 L B3154T5 I3 Turbo Petrol hybrid: Three-cylinder engine
• 2.0 L D4204 I4 Turbo Diesel: Four-cylinder engine

The recent Volvo XC40 comes in three trim levels offering different equipment depending on the driver’s needs:

• Volvo XC40 Core: The entry-level trim has LED headlights, a 7-speed Dual Clutch transmission, 2-Zone Electric Climate Control, 12” driver display, cruise control and support features like Road Sign Information, Driver Alert Control with Lane Keeping Aid and Incoming Lane Mitigation.
• Volvo XC40 Plus: This trim has smart exterior styling from the Black Stone door mirror covers, 18” Black Diamond Cut alloys and high-gloss front grille plus heated seats and steering wheel, 9” display, rear camera, adaptive power steering, automatic wipers, rear collision warning, BLIS (blind spot support) and cross-traffic alert.
• Volvo XC40 Ultimate: The range-topping trim features 19.5 Matt Graphite Diamond Cut alloys, tinted rear windows, panoramic roof, a 360° camera, Pilot Assist adaptive cruise control with distance alert and a Fresh Air Subwoofer.

Popular older versions include Volvo XC40 Momentum, Volvo XC40 R-Design and Volvo XC40 Inscription
 
Electric
In 2020, Volvo launched its first battery electric model – the XC40 Recharge which was powered by a 78kwh battery pack. The C40 Recharge followed in 2021 with a similar 78kWh battery but a new coupe-style sloping rear-roof. Several electric ‘permanent magnet synchronous motors’ are available to drivers:

• 82 PS (60 kW; 81 hp) (XC40 T5 Twin Engine/XC40 T4 & T5 Recharge)
• 178 PS (131 kW; 176 hp) dual motor (2022 XC40 T5 Recharge AWD)
• Single motor (XC40 Recharge Pure Electric)
• Dual motor (XC40 P8 AWD Recharge)

Which Volvo XC40 should you choose? 

The hybrid or fully electric models are ideal if you’re after a future focused car, which is tax and emission free. But if you want a truly luxurious experience, the top of the range Ultimate trim is packed with features that will make driving incredibly comfortable and enjoyable. 

What should you look out for in a used Volvo XC40? 

Volvo are renowned for their safe and reliable cars. There have been nine recalls of the XC40 since its release in 2017 although most of them were minor issues.

• Software. In 2018, 7322 cars were affected by a software issue in the Vehicle Connectivity Module, in 2020 56385 cars had an issue where the Automatic Emergency Brake System did not engage and in 2021 1954 cars were recalled due to a fault which meant the engine didn’t start or started with noise. All these issues were fixed by updating, modifying or adding new software. Check systems are working before buying and ask retailers if a car you’re looking at was or could be affected by any of these issues.
• Rear seat back lock. In 2018, there was an issue where the rear seat back lock strikers were missing, meaning the backrest didn’t say upright. Only 15 cars were affected and just needed the missing striker plates. Check the backrest is working and upright.
• Nuts. In 2020 some nuts which secured the Brake Booster to the firewall were missing and in 2021 two nuts on the Brake Booster were assembled with insufficient torque. 389 vehicles were affected in total and were simply fixed with new nuts.
• Welding. In 2021, 28 vehicles needed the Hydraulic Unit replacing as there was insufficient or missing welding. Ask the retailer about the Hydraulic Unit before buying.
• Cable harness. In 2021, 5173 cars had the cable harness (in the engine compartment) assembled in an incorrect position. It needs to be secured in the right position so ask the retailer if this has been looking at during their checks. 
• Bolts. In 2020, just one car was recalled because it needed the High Voltage Battery to be replaced as the bolts were not torqued correctly and came loose. It’s unlikely this rare recall will affect any used vehicles you view, but always ask for a service history.
   

Do you need to part exchange your Volvo XC40?

At SPOTiCAR, we have a part exchange programme to make it easier to sell your existing car so you can buy your new approved used model. Use our online tool to get a free estimate in just a few seconds. All you need to do is fill in a couple of details, including your vehicle registration, to get an instant valuation which we can send to your email too. If you’re happy with the price, find a SPOTiCAR retailer and make an appointment. Our experts will give you a firm offer, provide you with finance options for your Volvo XC40, and take care of all the paperwork. It’s that simple.