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Expert Rating

Volvo V40 (2012 to 2019)

NOTICE: This car is still assessed using our previous Expert Rating Index calculations. We are currently rolling out a completely overhauled Expert Rating Index in early 2024, so this vehicle will be updated shortly.

Expert Rating

Volvo V40 (2012 to 2019)

Not a current model

    Summary


    The Volvo V40 is a five-door family-sized hatchback that was a leftfield upmarket alternative to the likes of the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and Volkswagen Golf. The V40’s production cycle came to an end in 2019, and the Volvo range has not featured a hatchback since (although technically the new all-electric C40 is a replacement).

    Available as a diesel or a petrol car, and fitted with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox, the Volvo V40 received its mid-life facelift in 2016, which consisted of tech upgrades and interior tweaks. A crossover-style spin-off model called the V40 Cross Country arrived a year after the standard model in 2013, with SUV-style body cladding, bigger wheels and increased ride height.

    Throughout its lifespan, the V40 was commended by reviewers for its excellent safety standards and high-quality interior trim, which Auto Express says “lives up to Volvo’s premium brand status”. Although refined, many journalists also label the V40’s interior as dated, particularly the car’s ageing infotainment, and many reviews explain that rivals have more passenger space in the rear.

    Parkers adds that rear visibility is poor, but otherwise states that the V40 has “nicely weighted steering”, “good body control in the bends”, and a range of very quiet and efficient engines that makes the hatchback “an excellent all-rounder”.

    No longer on sale, the Volvo V40 holds an Expert Rating of 60% based on 46 reviews published by the UK media.

    V40 highlights

    • Plenty of safety equipment as standard
    • A refined and comfortable interior
    • Capable long distance cruiser
    • Upmarket exterior styling

    V40 lowlights

    • Rather harsh suspension
    • Cramped rear seating
    • Dated infotainment
    • Top-spec models get pricey

    Key specifications


    Body style: Medium hatchback
    Engines: petrol, diesel
    Price when new: From £18,995 on-road

    Launched: Autumn 2012
    Last updated: Summer 2016
    Replaced: Summer 2019


    Media reviews


    Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

    The Car Expert

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    Auto Express

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    Auto Trader

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    Autocar

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    Business Car

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    Car

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    Car Keys

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    Carbuyer

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    Carwow

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    Eurekar

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    Evo

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    Fleetworld

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    Green Car Guide

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    Heycar

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    Honest John

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    Motoring Research

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    Motors.co.uk

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    Parkers

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    The Sun

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    The Sunday Times

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    The Telegraph

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    Top Gear

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    What Car?

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    Safety rating

    Euro NCAP logo

    Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

    No safety rating

    The Volvo V40 was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2012 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2018 and is no longer valid.

    The V40 did win many awards throughout its life cycle for safety, and remains an excellent choice for safety as a used car compared to similar vehicles.

    Eco rating


    Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

    No eco rating

    The Volvo V40 pre-dated Green NCAP by several years, so it was not tested during its life cycle.

    Reliability rating

    MotorEasy logo 600x167

    Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

    All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

    The Volvo V40 has a reliability score that’s better than average, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers both the current-generation V40 and the original (pre-2018) version.

    Over a third of all reported problems with the V40 relate to its suspension, although the average repair bill is only about £200. Other areas to look out for are the braking and electrical systems, although the average bills for these are again fairly low. Be aware of engine problems, however, – although rare, they are expensive with an average repair bill of more than £1,400.

    If you’re looking at a used Volvo V40, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

    Awards


    Trophies, prizes and awards that the Volvo V40 has received

    2018

    • Safest Used Car AwardsSafest Used Car

    2017

    • Safest Used Car Awards – Safest Used Car

    2016

    • Safest Used Car Awards – Safest Used Car

    2013

    • Auto Express Awards – Safest Car
    • Carsite Awards – Car of the Year + Best Medium Family Car

    2012

    • Scottish Car of the Year Awards – Best Executive Hatch

    Similar cars


    If you’re looking at the Volvo V40, you might also be interested in these alternatives

    Alfa Romeo Giulietta | Audi A3 | BMW 1 SeriesInfiniti Q30 | Lexus CT | Mercedes-Benz A-Class | Volkswagen Golf

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    No longer in production, the Volvo V40 is a capable family hatchback commended for its safety, but criticised for its rigid ride comfort.Volvo V40 (2012 to 2019)