XT4 vs XC40
In the subcompact luxury suv class, the XT4 and the XC40 are natural rivals. Lay the spec sheets side by side and you’ll see more overlap than contrast.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance XC40 wins
- Fuel Economy & Range Tie
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance5.9
- Fuel Economy & Range4.3
- Engine & Performance6.8
- Fuel Economy & Range4.3
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The XC40 has 12 hp more power
If everything else were equal, this small edge would favor the XC40: 247 hp against 235 hp. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 181.1 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Wheelbase | 109.4 in | N/A (not specified) |
Engine & Performance
XC40 leads
The engine & performance numbers lean toward the XC40, not dramatically but consistently. The XC40 adds 12 hp more power. The XC40’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. The engine & performance verdict goes to the XC40.
Total system output
XT4: 235 hp XC40: 247 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Fuel Economy & Range
Too close to call
The differences on fuel economy & range are small enough to ignore in daily use. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on fuel economy & range.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The XT4 and the XC40 match each other closely in this area. Net result on space & practicality: level.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Call the off-road & towing round a draw. For off-road & towing, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Safety & Tech
Nothing to tally in the safety & tech section, but plenty to read. The table lists what the XT4 and the XC40 each use.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 235 hp | 247 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 26 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | 24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 29 mpg | 30 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 22.5 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 48.9 cu ft Least room, seats folded | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 181.1 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Wheelbase | 109.4 in | N/A (not specified) |
Price
| Spec | XT4 | XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $40,795 Priciest in class | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the XC40 if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (247 hp vs 235 hp)
- you trust Volvo and want to keep things familiar
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the XT4 or the XC40?
On the specs compared here, the XC40 makes more sense for most buyers; the XT4 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Let me cut through the brand noise around the XT4 and the XC40. The XC40 has 12 hp more power, and for most people that’s not a small thing.
Choose by what you’d use most: the things a spec sheet can’t capture leads to the XT4, engine & performance leads to the XC40.
My pick: the XC40.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.