As automakers continue to expand their lineups with more crossovers and SUVs, they're becoming one-stop shops. Whether you need a luxurious subcompact or mid-size SUV, Volvo has you covered with the XC40 and the XC60. Both SUVs have the versatility that consumers crave and luxury appointments that have made Volvo a household name. Which Volvo model should you go for? That's what we're looking to answer below.
See a side-by-side comparison of the Volvo XC4 & the Volvo XC60 »
What the XC40 Gets Right
Since the XC40 is smaller than the XC60, it has a more affordable price tag than its larger sibling. The XC40 starts at $34,195, which includes destination, while the XC60 carries a starting price tag of $42,495. The extra $8,300 can be used toward getting into a higher trim. In fact, the range-topping XC40 Inscription starts at $40,745, which is still $1,750 less than the base XC60.
For urbanites, the XC40 is the better option, as its compact size makes it easier to drive and park. The XC40 is 10.4 inches shorter in length and two inches shorter in width.
Those looking to save money at the gas pump will naturally gravitate toward the XC40. The entry-level XC40 comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. With front-wheel drive, the XC40 is EPA rated to get up to 23 miles per gallon city, 33 mpg highway, and 27 combined. The XC60 comes with a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder motor and an eight-speed automatic gearbox that brings its numbers down to 22/28/24 mpg (city/highway/combined).
What the XC60 Gets Right
The most obvious difference between the two models is their size. The XC60 is larger and more spacious than the XC40, which makes it the better option for drivers that need to regularly hold more cargo. The XC60 has more front shoulder room, front leg room, rear leg room, front hip room, and rear hip room than the XC40.
In addition to having more interior space than the XC40, the XC60 can also hold more cargo. The XC60 has a maximum cargo capacity of 68.8 cubic feet, which is 21.6 more than the XC40.
While the XC60 can't match the XC40's fuel economy figures, the mid-size SUV is the more powerful option. The XC60 is powered by a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The XC40 has a similar engine, but it produces 187 hp.
Need Some Extra Space?
The XC40 is a funky little SUV that shines in urban areas. While it's more versatile than a sedan, it doesn't have the same interior space and cargo capacity as Volvo's mid-size offering. Its smaller size makes it easier to drive, but for consumers wanting a traditional SUV, the XC60 is a better offering for the majority of drivers.
The Verdict: Volvo XC60
If you're looking into a SUV, chances are you're looking for something that's spacious and versatile. When it comes to those two things, the Volvo XC60 handedly outshines the Volvo XC40.
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