Volvo XC40 SUV - Practicality & boot space

Unlike many crossovers, the XC40 has shunned a coupe-like roofline for a more conventional boxy shape, resulting in plenty of space for passengers. Luggage space isn’t class-leading, but it should suffice for most people and is neatly thought out.

Volvo XC40 interior space & storage

The XC40 isn’t a particularly big SUV, but pushing the wheels out to each corner of the car means interior space is quite impressive. Rear legroom and headroom are both adequate if not class-leading, and unlike many rivals, the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof doesn’t see your follicles flattened by a lower roof.

Like the Jaguar E-Pace, there’s plenty of room inside, with four six-foot tall adults travelling together, but a fifth might be stretching it, especially because a raised transmission tunnel robs the middle occupant of space to put their feet.

Boot space

17

With 452 litres of boot space on offer, the XC40 offers less space than the Audi Q3 (530 litres) and BMW X1 (505 litres) in the luggage wars, while the sporty Jaguar E-Pace is actually quite a bit bigger, providing 577 litres. Unlike some plug-in hybrids, the T5 Recharge plug-in hybrid doesn’t sacrifice any boot space to accommodate the battery because it's fitted under the floor of the cabin. The same is true for the EX40, with a 452-litre boot capacity.

Sheer volume isn’t the only important factor, though: the XC40’s boot is nice and flat, with no lip to heave items over. This smooth loading space remains snag free even if you fold down the back seats, boosting space to a maximum of 1,336 litres.

Towing

The front-wheel-drive B3 can haul a 1,600kg braked trailer. The B4 can tow a braked trailer of up to 2,000kg, while the T4 and T5 Recharge PHEVs can tow up to 1,800kg. The EX40 with a single motor can also tow up to 1,500kg, increasing to 1,800kg for the Twin Motor model. That's quite impressive for an EV, many of which aren't able to tow at all. A retractable towbar is a £1,400 option.