There's plenty of reasons to like the Volvo XC40 – it's stylish but understated, with an easygoing driving experience and decent practicality.
But, when the premium small SUV market is this competitive, it's far from the only flavour on sale. We've picked 10 of our favourite Volvo XC40 rivals.
Most of these models are available as great-value nearly new and used cars from Motorpoint.
BMW X1
The XC40 faces a lot of competition and the BMW X1 might be its most convincing rival. There's very little this popular Bavarian doesn't excel at – it's spacious, well-equipped and quite a bit more agile than the heavy-feeling Volvo. Most owners will be just fine with the relatively affordable petrol models, or there's a plug-in hybrid version that lets you split duties between electric and petrol power. Alternatively, the fully electric iX1 feels really zippy and can return more than 250 miles on a full charge.
Shop used BMW X1 cars or read our BMW X1 review
Audi Q3
If the BMW doesn't quite do it for you, check out the Audi Q3. This handsome SUV is heavily benchmarked against the X1, with a similar selection of petrol and plug-in hybrid engines. It's a little more of an all-rounder compared to the BMW, without as much focus on entertaining handling and more on remaining predictably stable in all scenarios. We're a little more partial to the Audi's infotainment software over most other cars on this list for its simple layout and high-contrast graphics.
See used Audi Q3 cars or read our Audi Q3 review
Mercedes GLA
Completing the traditional trio of German competitors is the Mercedes GLA. It's a little smaller than the other cars here, with a marginally tighter interior, but that might make it a little easier to live with in tight urban areas. Material quality is excellent with plush surfaces and a generous helping of metal-effect detailing. Entry-level cars come with disappointingly small infotainment screens but higher-end trims look much more modern with a heavily enhanced screen setup.
Browse used Mercedes GLA cars or read our Mercedes GLA review
Volvo XC60
You might be a fan of the XC40 in general but found it to be a little too small for your needs – perhaps you have bulky hobbies or an especially big dog. In that case, consider stepping up to the XC40's big sibling, the XC60. From a user and driving experience perspective, it's a very similar vehicle, with a fairly calm setup and an elegantly minimal dashboard. Spend some time behind the wheel and you might notice the XC60 actually rides a little better than the XC40, but the most obvious difference is the extra passenger and boot space.
Search used Volvo XC60 cars or read our Volvo XC60 review
Range Rover Evoque
Fancy something that's a little less 'Scandi cool' and a bit more 'cool Britannia'? Take a look at the Range Rover Evoque. This is the smallest model in the Land Rover lineup and one of its most successful, distilling the look and feel of the larger cars into a compact, city-friendly package. Quality has taken a dramatic step up for this second-generation Evoque, with sumptuous materials and an elegant, understated design. Most impressive is its cosseting ride, however, which makes light work of Britain's scruffy road surfaces.
View used Range Rover Evoque cars or read our Range Rover Evoque review
Peugeot 3008
The latest Peugeot 3008 has closed the quality gap between itself and the traditional German class leaders remarkably quickly. Step inside and you'll immediately notice stylish, eye-catching details like the elegant cloth surfacing that's a welcome change to the ubiquitous black plastic used by rivals. We also like the sharp dual-screen infotainment setup and the Star Trek-style shortcut touch panel beneath it, as well as the angular, rising centre console that helps the driving position feel like a cockpit.
Browse used Peugeot 3008 cars or read our Peugeot 3008 review
Alfa Romeo Tonale
Many cars on this list go with understated styling to maintain the broadest appeal possible. The Alfa Romeo Tonale might not break the compact SUV mould, but it's a bit more handsome than most in this segment. Details like the piercing headlights that blend into the leading edge of the bonnet recall older Alfas like the 159 and Brera, with the signature shield grille taking pride of place in the middle. The handling setup is more balanced than the sportier cars Alfa Romeo made its name with, but few shoppers in this segment are likely to care.
Check out used Alfa Romeo Tonale cars or read our Alfa Romeo Tonale review
Cupra Terramar
The Cupra Terramar is a relatively recent addition to the brand's lineup, borrowing most of the same oily bits as the new Volkswagen Tiguan. Of course, it's had the full Cupra treatment with sharp, angular styling and menacing headlights. It also has a sportier setup than the Tiguan, with more attention paid to the handling and clever dampers available on top-spec models. Turbo petrol engines should suit most shoppers but there's also a long-range plug-in hybrid that's perfect for company car drivers and anyone with easy EV charging access.
Search used Cupra cars for sale
Mazda CX-5
The Volvo XC40 is a fairly good-looking SUV but it relies on squared proportions and an upright stance. If that's not your cup of tea, check out the Mazda CX-5, which has an altogether more rounded and curvier look. It cuts a fine form in its own right, with flowing surfaces and the brand's signature shield-shaped grille with beady headlights on either side. Most drivers will probably err towards the diesel engine for its low-down grunt and fuel economy, but the brand's smooth petrol engines are worth a look if you do more mixed motoring.
View used Mazda CX-5 cars or read our Mazda CX-5 review
Lexus UX
If you can sacrifice a little of the XC40's outright practicality, take a look at the Lexus UX. This compact, premium SUV has immaculate build quality and a choice of efficient full-hybrid or EV power under the bonnet. It's a little lower and tighter than the XC40, which translates to less rear-seat room and a slightly cramped boot – but its smaller stance also means it feels more car-like on the road, with better ride quality and handling than the Volvo. Prices on the used market are extremely competitive too, so it represents great value to used-car shoppers.
Shop used Lexus UX cars or read our Lexus UX review
Shop a huge choice of posh SUVs
Check out an enormous selection of nearly new and used SUVs for sale at Motorpoint. To see more potential picks, see the best small SUVs on sale.
