Discovery Sport vs EX40
Same class, different makers. The Discovery Sport (Land Rover) and the EX40 (Volvo) are built for the same kind of buyer. If you were hoping for a knockout, this isn’t it. The Discovery Sport and the EX40 stay within reach of each other almost everywhere.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance EX40 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance7.1
- Engine & Performance8.5
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 EX40 has 41 lb-ft more torque
The Discovery Sport is clearly behind on torque (269 lb-ft against 310 lb-ft), and that’s one of its biggest weak spots in this matchup. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
EX40 leads
In the engine & performance category, the EX40 isn’t just ahead; it’s clearly ahead. The EX40 scores with 41 lb-ft more torque. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades. Weighing only engine & performance, the EX40 comes out ahead.
Torque
Discovery Sport: 269 lb-ft EX40: 310 lb-ft The EX40’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
There’s no meaningful winner in the space & practicality section; the two are too close to separate. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The off-road & towing specs are close enough that neither gets the point. Either car will serve you equally well on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
On safety & tech, the useful details are the names in the table: what each one uses, not a figure we can rank.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Discovery Sport | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 246 hp | 248 hp |
| Torque | 269 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Discovery Sport | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 20 mpg Thirstiest in class | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 19 mpg Thirstiest in the city | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 23 mpg Thirstiest on the highway | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 296 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Discovery Sport | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Discovery Sport | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Discovery Sport | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“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 Discovery Sport if…
- you’re comfortable with how Land Rover does things
Choose the EX40 if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (310 lb-ft vs 269 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Volvo and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Discovery Sport or the EX40?
On the specs compared here, the EX40 makes more sense for most buyers; the Discovery Sport doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Land Rover makes the Discovery Sport, Volvo makes the EX40, and both want the same spot on your shortlist. Here’s where I land. Honestly, 41 lb-ft more torque on the EX40 does a lot of the persuading for me.
Choose by what you’d use most: the things a spec sheet can’t capture leads to the Discovery Sport, engine & performance leads to the EX40.
My pick: the EX40.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.