Volvo EX40 review

Having been very expensive to begin with, things are a bit better now with a fuller range of EX40 models. The entry-level Core trim with the single motor powertrain starting from £46,505. But you can get a plug-in hybrid XC40 for nearly £2k less in a fancier trim and the petrol powered Core model starts at £36k, so it’s all relative.

What specs are on offer? 

There are three trim levels available: Core, Plus and Ultimate. Core gets you a decent standard spec – 19in wheels, cruise control, powered tailgate, rear parking sensors, auto wipers and headlights, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, 12in digital instrument panel, wireless phone charging, smartphone integration and Volvo’s 9in infotainment set-up based on Android that uses Google Maps.

Plus starts at £50,487 and adds front parking sensors and a rear camera, adaptive cruise, a heat pump for added efficiency, heated rear seats and steering wheel and keyless go, while Ultimate costs from £56,605 and comes with 20in alloys, 360-degree parking cameras, a panoramic sunroof, Harmon Kardon sound system and fancy ambient lighting in the cabin.

Core trim only comes with the Single Motor powertrains, Plus with all three and Ultimate is just available with the Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor set-ups.

Which would you recommend?

The entry level EX40 comes with such a decent kit level that we’d probably stick with the Core trim and go for the Single Motor Extended Range powertrain for the most flexibility. That car will cost you £46,299, but Volvo has a range of nifty finance options available. Going for this model on its PCP scheme over 36 months, 30,000 miles and with a £4,600 deposit will see monthly payments of around £700.

How much is will charging cost me?

We’ll point you in the direction of our comprehensive charging costs guide for a full breakdown on what you’ll likely be paying, but charge the Single Motor’s 67kWh battery from flat to full on the current standard UK domestic rate of 25p/kWh, you’re looking at just under £17. Those with cheaper overnight tariffs (or solar panels) will pay less, of course.