The 2019 Volvo XC40 ranked #1 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Volvo XC40 has a score of 9.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 15 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engine Smooth ride and nimble handling Posh interior Lengthy features list
Cons Below-average cargo capacity
The 2019 Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury crossover with seating for five. Two trim levels are available: the Momentum and the R-Design. Every XC40 comes loaded with luxury and safety features, including LED headlights, leather upholstery, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning and mitigation. Upgrading to the R-Design doesn't cost much more and adds exterior styling enhancements (a black roof and black window surrounds, among others), larger wheels and more luxury features. Each is also available with several available features packages and stand-alone options.
PROS Pleasing interior layout with premium materials Clever small-item storage and cargo solutions Plenty of standard and available safety features
CONS Cargo area is small for the class Steep learning curve for touchscreen interface Rear bench seat isn't comfortable for tall passengers
The 2019 Volvo XC40 upends tradition—and traditional style—in mostly acceptable ways, and kicks off the car-subscription era with a stylish bang.
Pros Clever interior features Competent turbo-4 in T5 trims Smooth 8-speed automatic World-beating subscription model Smart 9.0-inch touchscreen as standard
Cons Exterior can get funky—and not the good kind Frustrating shift knob A Swedish car with extra-cost heated seats? Rear bench is best for two Will a Netflix car for broadcast buyers work?
Cupra’s first standalone model is a handsome crossover with decent road manners and plenty of space
Pros Sharp looks, handles well for a crossover, plenty of space and equipment
Cons Fiddly touch-sensitive heater almost as annoying as having to explain the badge to your mates
Pros Strong range of engine options Great interior style and quality Genuinely good fun to drive for an SUV
Cons Fairly limited personalisation options There are more practical options Some infotainment frustrations
The Cupra Formentor doesn't feel as playful as the closely related Volkswagen T-Roc R, but it’s every bit as fast in its similarly priced, range-topping form, plus it handles with composure and has a much nicer interior. In addition, cheaper, less powerful versions of the Formentor offer the same sporty looks as the flagship model – something that isn’t the case with lesser T-Rocs. Just bear in mind that you can have our 2021 Sports SUV of the Year, the Ford Puma ST, for not much more than the cheapest Formentor.
Pros Well equipped Surefooted and grippy handling Smart interior
Cons TSI 310 isn’t as much fun as the very best sports SUVs Slightly hesitant automatic gearbox Fiddly controls
