The XC40 faced competition from the Audi Q3, BMW X1, DS7, Ford Kuga, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan, and beat them all in Autocar’s SUV group test.
The XC40 impressed the Autocar test team with its cocooning interior. They appreciated the car’s “high hip point and loftiest vantage point”, which gave a bird’s-eye view of the road. They also said the XC40 had the “comfiest driver’s seat and nicest, most enveloping and luxurious interior ambience”.
The Mazda CX-5 and BMW X1 came in second and third respectively. The Volvo won thanks to its superior ride and handling, which was described as “deliciously grown-up, mellow, refined and relaxing”.
Autocar summed up the XC40’s victory: “It has luxury, desirability, comfort and charm to spare. The sheer dynamic fitness-for-purpose of the Volvo is the finishing touch that makes it a hugely deserving winner and one of 2018’s hottest automotive properties.”