Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 is a funky take on the traditional upright SUV silhouette. The cabin is a break from the norm too. Like other Volvos, the talking point in the cabin is its portrait-oriented 9.0-inch touchscreen, whose new Android-based software is easier to use. Again, like in other Volvos, you’d wish for a few more physical buttons to operate routine functions. Front-seat comfort is fine but those seated at the rear will find their seats too low and backrest too upright. Moreover, the small rear-door openings are a bit of a bother, too. The Volvo XC40’s 2.0-litre petrol engine, now assisted by a hybrid system, is up from 190 to 197hp. It’s far punchier now, and is refined for the most part, but does get a bit coarse at higher revs. The ride is on the firmer side, but that said, the XC40 drives with confidence at all speeds and the well-weighted steering works just fine in town and on the highway.