Alfa Romeo Tonale vs. Volvo XC40: Complete comparison 2026

Alfa Romeo Tonale, also sold as the Dodge Hornet in some markets, brings unmistakable Italian charm and distinctly sporty driving characteristics to the premium compact SUV segment. Standing against it is the very popular Volvo XC40 (whose fully electric variant is now known as the EX40), which has long won over customers with its minimalist Scandinavian elegance, top-tier safety levels, and maximum emphasis on passenger comfort. Let's take a detailed look at how this exciting battle of Italian emotion versus Swedish pragmatism fares in a direct comparison and which of these cars will be the better choice for your daily journeys.

Looking at the exterior dimensions of both premium compact SUVs, we quickly find that each automaker has chosen a completely different approach to overall proportions. The Alfa Romeo Tonale bets on a sportier and more elongated silhouette, while the Volvo XC40 sticks to a more traditional, robust, and boxy shape that maximizes interior space on a smaller exterior footprint.

With a length of up to 4528 mm, the Alfa Romeo Tonale is roughly 10 centimeters longer than the Volvo XC40 (which most often measures 4425 mm). This advantage in overall length gives the Italian car a more elegant and dynamic appearance, which will be especially appreciated by design-oriented drivers. However, the Swedish competitor masterfully makes up for this difference in another key parameter. Despite being shorter overall, the XC40 offers a significantly longer wheelbase – an impressive 2702 mm compared to 2636 mm for the Alfa Romeo. Volvo has thus pushed the wheels further to the corners of the body, which not only makes maneuvering and parking in tight city streets easier but also typically provides more legroom for rear passengers.

In terms of width and height, the Nordic model has the upper hand. At 1863 mm, the Volvo XC40 is 28 mm wider and, with a height exceeding 1.65 meters, also about 4 centimeters taller than the Tonale. The Volvo's wider and taller build enhances the sense of safety, provides the typical upright "SUV seating position" with a better view of the road ahead, and generally makes getting in and out easier. Conversely, the Alfa Romeo's lower and slightly narrower profile helps lower the car's center of gravity, clearly referencing the brand's sporting DNA and promising more agile behavior on winding backroads.

Ultimately, these dimensions clearly define the character of both cars. If your priority is a dynamic look with a long, elegant body and a sportier driving position, the Alfa Romeo Tonale will meet your expectations. However, if you are looking for maximum urban practicality, easier parking thanks to a shorter body, and yet require a spacious interior benefiting from a long wheelbase, the Volvo XC40 represents the more rational choice.

When choosing a compact premium SUV, the luggage compartment capacity often plays a surprisingly important role, whether for everyday family usability, transporting sports equipment, or the overall practicality of the vehicle. Both compared cars offer a slightly different approach to interior space, and in both cases on the used car market, it depends heavily on which powertrain you choose. The differences between standard and plug-in hybrid versions are very noticeable in both models and can realistically mean space for several extra suitcases when packing for a trip.

Alfa Romeo Tonale in its standard mild-hybrid (MHEV) and diesel versions scores with an excellent base volume of 500 liters, which increases to an impressive 1,550 liters after folding down the rear seats. This space is more than sufficient for weekend shopping and longer family holidays. However, the situation changes significantly with the plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV), where the installation of traction batteries takes up a significant portion of the boot, and the base volume for early model years drops to a rather below-average 385 liters (or 1,430 liters with the seats folded).

Volvo XC40 offers a boot capacity of 428 to 452 liters in its purely internal combustion and mild-hybrid (B3, B4) versions, depending on the model year, with a maximum capacity after folding the seats ranging from 1,304 to 1,328 liters. Although the Nordic model lags slightly behind the standard Tonale versions on paper, Volvo has managed the battery placement for alternative powertrains somewhat better from a design perspective. The plug-in hybrid versions of the XC40 (T4, T5) offer a respectable 405 liters (1,281 liters maximum), giving Volvo a slight advantage in the electrified battle. So, if you are looking for a conventional internal combustion vehicle, the Alfa Romeo offers more liters in absolute terms, but in the plug-in hybrid category, the Volvo is slightly more practical in terms of the luggage compartment, with its regular and easy-to-use boot shape.

Towing capacity is often a decisive factor for drivers looking for a vehicle that is not only stylish but also practical for leisure or work. When comparing approximately four-year-old models of the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Volvo XC40, you will encounter vast differences in what these cars can tow. The Swedish Volvo XC40 benefits from a more robust construction in this regard and offers significantly higher capacities. While the standard braked trailer weight for basic electric versions of the Volvo starts at 1500 kg, more powerful internal combustion and mild-hybrid engines (such as B4 or B5) can tow an impressive 2100 kg. In contrast, the Alfa Romeo Tonale remains primarily a stylish city SUV with lower towing ambitions. Its maximum is 1500 kg for the 1.5-liter petrol mild-hybrid engines. However, as soon as you opt for the popular plug-in hybrid version with a heavier battery, the maximum permitted trailer weight drops to 1250 kg. For the basic 1.6 VGT-D diesel engine, the limit is even just 1025 kg. Volvo handles unbraked trailers without problems up to the traditional limit of 750 kg, while the Tonale is limited by the manufacturer to 700 kg.

In everyday practice, these numerical differences represent two completely different levels of usability. The Alfa Romeo Tonale provides an ideal base for common and less demanding tasks – whether it's securely attaching a carrier for several e-bikes, transporting building materials on a small trailer during weekend garden maintenance, or moving smaller furniture. In contrast, the Volvo XC40 represents a gateway to full-fledged caravanning. With a limit exceeding two tons, you can easily hitch up a spacious family caravan for a summer holiday, a heavier transport trailer, or a medium-sized boat. If towing power is a priority for you and you are looking for maximum versatility, the Swedish SUV is clearly the more logical choice. The Tonale, on the other hand, perfectly suits drivers who expect a sporty design from their car and hitch a trailer only occasionally.

In terms of engine options, the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Volvo XC40 take completely different approaches, which is a very important factor for those interested in a roughly four-year-old used car. The Tonale, introduced to the market in 2022, entered the game with a narrow but modern range of power units relying exclusively on advanced electrification – in the petrol engine lineup, you will only find mild-hybrid (MHEV) or powerful plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants. Incidentally, it is the first model from the Italian brand to feature plug-in charging. Conversely, the Volvo XC40 (within its 1st generation) benefits from a longer life cycle and offers one of the most diverse ranges of power units on the used car market. You can choose from traditional pure internal combustion petrol or diesel engines, through efficient plug-in hybrids, to extremely powerful fully electric specifications. While the most powerful Tonale 1.3 PHEV generates a system output of 206 kW (280 hp), the top-of-the-line fully electric Volvo with two motors counters with a staggering 300 kW (408 hp), which absolutely pushes the dynamic boundaries of a compact family SUV.

Alfa Romeo Tonale

Under the hood of the Alfa Romeo Tonale, you will find a logically and very clearly structured range. The foundation consists of the 1.5 T 48V-Hybrid four-cylinder petrol engines and the more powerful 1.5 VGT 48V-Hybrid equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger. Both units rely on advanced mild-hybrid technology with a powerful electric motor integrated directly into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (TCT). Thanks to this solution, the Tonale can coast or crawl at low speeds entirely without the help of the internal combustion engine. The ecological and dynamic pinnacle is the 1.3 T Multiair Plug-in Hybrid Q4, where the petrol engine drives the front axle and a large electric motor drives the rear. Despite the clear push for electrification, the Italian automaker prudently kept a trump card in its lineup for drivers covering hundreds of highway kilometers – the classic, proven, and economical 1.6 VGT-D diesel engine.

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 has undergone a significant evolution during its long life. When looking for used cars around four years old, you must therefore verify the availability of specific versions for the Scandinavian model. The traditional D3 (110 kW) and D4 (140 kW) diesel engines were withdrawn from the range during 2020 and today appear only in older vehicles. A similar trend gradually caught up with the previously popular three-cylinder and four-cylinder combustion engines labeled T2 and T3. The role of conventional units was effectively taken over by the modernized mild-hybrid B3 and B4 models, where electricity assists with smoother starts and reduces fuel consumption. A large part of the market today also consists of the Recharge T4 and T5 plug-in hybrid powertrains, which add a full-fledged electric motor with charging capability to the three-cylinder combustion engine. The attraction for fans of modern technology is undoubtedly the zero-emission variants – formerly designated as P8, later as Single Motor and Twin Motor, which offer massive system output.

The final summary and recommendation depend primarily on your driving priorities. The engine lineup of the Alfa Romeo Tonale clearly appeals to buyers seeking driving agility; the chassis works brilliantly with the tuned hybrid units, and highway cruisers will be pleased by the economy-oriented 1.6 VGT-D engine. In contrast, the Volvo XC40 offers maximum freedom for every type of customer. Proponents of low-maintenance family security and travel comfort will appreciate the refined B3 or B4 mild hybrids, while tech enthusiasts will eagerly reach for the plug-in hybrids or the breathtaking acceleration of the top-tier pure electric variant.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction. The following recommendations are based on real-world experience, fuel consumption in normal traffic, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. Although both cars target the premium compact SUV segment, their philosophies and engine histories differ significantly. As a newer model, the Alfa Romeo Tonale has relied on innovative electrification from the start, with advanced mild-hybrids capable of purely electric driving. For the rival Volvo XC40, it is worth noting—as evidenced by production databases—that production of the popular diesel engines (D3 and D4) ended during 2020. When choosing a roughly four-year-old vehicle (from model year 2022 onwards), we therefore recommend focusing exclusively on the petrol mild-hybrid units designated "B", which fully replace the older engines and diesel options.

For the Alfa Romeo Tonale, we recommend: 1.5 VGT 48V-Hybrid, 118 kW (160 hp)

This advanced 1.5-litre petrol engine with a variable geometry turbocharger (available between 2022–2025) represents the "sweet spot" of the entire range. Compared to the entry-level 130 hp version, it offers much better dynamics needed to move a heavier SUV, without the owner having to tolerate the high weight and technical complexity of the heavier plug-in hybrid powertrain.

• Technical advantages: An interesting feature is the advanced 48V mild-hybrid system with a 15 kW electric motor integrated directly into the seven-speed TCT dual-clutch transmission. Unlike most competitors, this unique solution allows the car to be powered purely by electricity during parking or slow crawling. The VGT turbocharger ensures linear pull from low revs without so-called turbo lag and delivers excellent city fuel economy for a petrol SUV.
• Known risks and weaknesses: The dual-clutch transmission can hesitate slightly during sudden speed changes at low revs. Furthermore, the engine uses direct fuel injection, which, combined with exclusively city driving, carries a risk of carbon buildup on the intake valves. Why it matters and how to tell: A carbonized engine gradually loses power and has a rough, irregular idle. During a test drive, pay attention to the smoothness of the idle and throttle response; the engine should not hesitate or jerk. For prevention, it is essential to use premium petrol with additives and regularly give the car a good run on a longer highway route.
• Who it's for: This engine is perfect for more dynamic drivers operating in mixed conditions (city and shorter country roads) who are looking for an agile Italian character, do not require 4x4 drive, and appreciate more favourable service costs compared to the expensive plug-in hybrid.

For the Volvo XC40, we recommend: B4, 145 kW (197 hp)

Given the absence of diesel engines in roughly four-year-old used cars, the 2.0-litre petrol mild-hybrid B4 (available from 2020 to the present) emerges as the safest and most comfortable choice. Compared to the weaker T3 three-cylinder or the B3 version, this engine with nearly 200 hp ensures relaxed travel, is mechanically very robust, and represents a much more reliable choice for long-term ownership than the complex Recharge plug-in hybrid units.

• Technical advantages: The engine is superbly sound-insulated and fits the car's relaxing character perfectly. The integrated starter-generator practically smooths out the behaviour of the unpopular start-stop system and provides a slight assisting torque for velvety smooth starts. The smoothness of power delivery and ample reserves make overtaking a completely safe affair.
• Known risks and weaknesses: Although it has a robust mechanical foundation, the car itself is quite heavy and has a tall body with poorer aerodynamics. The 2.0-litre petrol engine thus takes its toll in the form of highway fuel consumption, which can easily exceed 8 l/100 km. During this period, Volvo also combined classic Geartronic automatics and seven-speed DKG dual-clutch transmissions depending on the version. Why it matters and how to tell: Overextended oil change intervals in the automatic transmission significantly shorten its lifespan, and any repair of the clutch plates or mechatronics is extremely costly. When testing a used car, try all gears when cold and warm—shifting must be perfectly smooth and without jolts. Check the service book for the automatic transmission oil change (recommended at 60,000 km at the latest) and click through the onboard infotainment thoroughly, as older software versions were more prone to freezing.
• Who it's for: The B4 unit is the perfect choice for families, defensive drivers, and highway travellers for whom maximum driving comfort, smoothness, and superior safety are the main priorities, and who are willing to forgive the car's slightly higher fuel consumption.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by car manufacturers often differ significantly from reality, which is especially true for taller and heavier SUV category vehicles. For an objective comparison of both models in versions relevant to the market for approximately four-year-old used cars, we have used data from the popular portal Spritmonitor.de. It aggregates real refueling records from thousands of regular drivers, providing a much more accurate picture of running costs.

Gasoline engines as surprising fuel guzzlers?

Looking at the real-world data, several interesting trends are evident when we sort the vehicles by powertrain type. Diesel engines in both cars perform very efficiently as expected and represent the most economical choice with a real average between 6.0 and 6.5 liters of diesel per hundred kilometers.

However, significant differences can be found in the gasoline versions. Volvo pays the price for its bulkier, heavier build and slightly worse aerodynamics. Despite the use of modern 48V mild-hybrid technology (in the newer B3 and B4 versions), real-world consumption remains quite high, between 7.4 and 8.2 l/100 km. Furthermore, it will be a significant surprise for many that even the base three-cylinder (T3) does not bring a major economic advantage, and with an average of around 7.6 liters, it shows that a small turbo engine in a heavy car is not an automatic guarantee of savings. Conversely, Alfa Romeo demonstrates a much more efficient integration of its electrified powertrain. Its 1.5-liter engine (1.5 MHEV) can operate with an average of around 6.3 liters even in the real world with a high proportion of stop-and-go traffic.

What this means for your wallet

• Highway travelers and commuters: For drivers who spend most of their time on highways or cover thousands of kilometers a month, diesel versions (Tonale 1.6 diesel or older XC40 D3) will be the most rational choice.
• City and suburban drivers: Here, the Italian representative clearly scores. Alfa Romeo's mild-hybrid system is significantly more efficient and wallet-friendly in heavy traffic, where recuperation can be fully utilized.
• Budget-conscious buyers: If you care about every liter of fuel, drive in the city often, and for whatever reason do not want a diesel, the Tonale is definitely the safer path. A gasoline Volvo will be a noticeably more expensive item in the family budget.

Is consumption the deciding factor?

In the end, it turns out that fuel-related running costs form a major dividing line between these SUVs. While the Volvo XC40 offers an excellent sense of safety, unmistakable Scandinavian comfort, and robustness, in the case of gasoline and mild-hybrid engines, it is simply necessary to accept its above-average appetite. The Alfa Romeo Tonale, on the other hand, proves to be a significantly more considerate companion for your wallet. So, if you cover longer distances daily and do not want to invest more in fuel than is absolutely necessary, the difference of one to two liters of consumption per hundred kilometers could tip the scales in favor of Italy.

When searching for a premium compact SUV on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars (2021 and 2022 models), you will encounter two completely different market situations with the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Volvo XC40. While the Swedish representative is a seasoned bestseller with a rich selection in used car dealerships, its Italian competitor only entered the market in 2022, making it still relatively exclusive as a used vehicle.

Alfa Romeo Tonale (from 2022)

Since the Tonale made its debut in 2022, used cars from this period represent the very first available model years. These vehicles usually have lower mileage and still feel like new on the market.

• Price range: The cheapest units on the market start at approximately €24,000. If you are interested in well-equipped versions such as Edizione Speciale or Veloce, or perhaps a powerful plug-in hybrid, expect a price approaching €33,000.
• Market availability: The selection is currently narrower compared to the competition. Petrol mild-hybrid units (1.5 e-Hybrid) clearly dominate among used cars.
• Depreciation: Although older models of the brand often suffered from rapid price drops in the past, the Tonale is holding its value confidently so far. It benefits from its status as an attractive SUV with a timeless design and modern technology.

Volvo XC40 (2021–2022)

The Volvo XC40 is an absolute classic in the premium used car segment. It is a very rational and popular choice with a huge number of available units.

• Price range: Prices for roughly four-year-old examples with average mileage start around €21,000 to €23,000. These are primarily basic petrol engines or cars with higher mileage. Popular versions with more powerful mild-hybrids, plug-in hybrids (Recharge), or even fully electric variants easily range between €29,000 and €37,000.
• Market availability: Buyers can expect a very rich selection. Unlike its Italian competitor, with Volvo you can choose in detail from a vast array of equipment levels, color combinations, and every conceivable type of powertrain.
• Depreciation: The Swedish SUV rightfully belongs among the models with the most stable residual value in its class. It represents a conservative investment that can be relatively easily resold after several more years of operation.

Overview of approximate used car prices (approx. 4 years old)

Both models, the Alfa Romeo Tonale and the Volvo XC40, received the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP safety tests. However, to correctly assess their overall safety on the used car market, it is absolutely crucial to take into account the year they were tested. The Alfa Romeo Tonale went through the testing facility in the summer of 2022, while the Volvo XC40's rating dates back to 2018.

Euro NCAP testing protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter over the years. Therefore, percentage results from different years cannot be directly compared. The 2022 tests, which the Alfa Romeo underwent, placed significantly more emphasis on modern active safety, new frontal impact simulation scenarios, and improved cyclist detection. Conversely, the Volvo XC40 completed the tests according to an older and, from today's perspective, less demanding methodology, meaning its formal certification for the then five-star standard has already expired due to the time elapsed.

The results clearly show the different safety focus of both cars. The Volvo XC40 demonstrates an exceptionally strong and robust passive body structure, which was reflected in a phenomenal adult occupant protection rating of 97%. In contrast, the Alfa Romeo Tonale lost some of its percentage rating (83%) due to the absence of a center airbag protecting front passengers in a side impact and, according to the commissioners' report, was an "aggressive partner" towards other participants in a frontal collision.

However, the Italian compact SUV scores significantly with modern assistants. Thanks to more advanced technologies for collision avoidance, fatigue monitoring, and automatic braking, it achieved a great result of 85% in the safety systems category, clearly surpassing the technological equipment tested in the Swedish car in 2018.

Conclusion
Even with the passage of time, the Volvo XC40 offers admirable passive protection and structural strength in the event of an unavoidable impact. On the other hand, the Alfa Romeo Tonale represents a more comprehensive car from the perspective of today's standards, as it can prevent crisis situations much better thanks to significantly more modern assistance software. If you are looking for more up-to-date preventive technologies, the Tonale is a step ahead. However, for the traditional "Swedish tank" feel and the certainty of massive passive protection, the Volvo remains a fantastic choice.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer when choosing the ideal car, and both approach added value in completely different ways.

Alfa Romeo Tonale: Italian Passion and Technological Firsts

The Italian SUV focuses on driving emotions, distinctive design, and unconventional technological innovations designed to provide the owner with an exclusive experience and a guarantee of quality.

• Digital Certificate (NFT): The Tonale was the first car on the market to use blockchain technology to record service history and mileage. This digital record, which cannot be retroactively falsified, significantly increases transparency and helps maintain a higher residual value of the car during subsequent resale.
• Chassis and Electronics: Top-tier driving characteristics are typical for Alfa Romeo. The Tonale uses the "Brake-by-wire" (IBS) system, guaranteeing immediate brake pedal response. In higher and sporty trims, such as Veloce, the car is equipped with Dual Stage Valve electronically controlled dampers that adapt according to the selected driving mode.
• Alfa D.N.A. Drive Mode Selector: The iconic rotary selector allows the driver to instantly change the car's character from an economical mode (Advanced Efficiency) through neutral (Natural) to a more aggressive sporty setting (Dynamic), which sharpens the response of the engine, gearbox, and steering.
• Infotainment and Telematics: The multimedia system is built on the Android platform, but the main specialty is the deep integration of the Amazon Alexa voice assistant. Thanks to this, you can control a smart home from the car, or conversely, check the car's status from home (door unlocking, fuel level). Full support for remote OTA (Over-The-Air) updates is included.
• Iconic Full-LED Matrix Headlights: The specific "3+3" design signature refers to the brand's legendary models, while also providing top-tier functionality for adaptive shading of surrounding traffic, ensuring maximum safety during night driving.

Volvo XC40: Scandinavian Practicality and Digital Minimalism

The Swedish representative excels in thoughtful ergonomics, an emphasis on safety, and top-tier integration of Google services, making it an ideal and trouble-free everyday companion.

• Innovative Interior Storage Solutions: The XC40 cabin is full of clever "simply clever" details in the Swedish style. You'll find a fold-out bag hook integrated into the glove compartment, a removable waste bin in the center console, and special slots for parking tickets and payment cards.
• Audio and Door Panels: Volvo innovatively moved the bass speakers from the front doors (so-called Air Woofer Technology developed for the Harman Kardon system) to under the dashboard. This provides customers with huge storage pockets in the doors, which comfortably fit a laptop and a large water bottle.
• Infotainment with Google System: Volvo switched to a system fully built on Google Automotive services (for models from approximately 2022). It includes native Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to apps through Google Play. The system works perfectly smoothly without the need for complex smartphone connection and is constantly improved via OTA updates.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): The traditional emphasis on safety is embodied by the Pilot Assist system, which provides one of the best semi-autonomous driving experiences on highways, keeping the car in its lane and adapting speed to traffic. The comprehensive City Safety system then reliably detects pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals.
• Sustainable and Premium Materials: In line with the brand's ecological vision, the XC40 offers sophisticated recycled materials in newer or higher trims (often in Recharge versions). For example, unique wool upholstery or materials from recycled plastics replace traditional leather without the interior losing its typical Nordic premium character.

The Alfa Romeo Tonale is an ideal choice for drivers looking for a stylish and engaging compact SUV that clearly stands out from the crowd. While it trades some absolute comfort for a sportier driving experience, it rewards you with unmistakable Italian charm and a sense of uniqueness during your daily commute.

The Volvo XC40 will primarily appeal to families and more relaxed drivers who prefer maximum safety, premium comfort, and practical minimalism in a used car. It is an excellent and well-thought-out companion for daily travel and long journeys, prioritizing a relaxing atmosphere over sporty dynamics.

Based on long-term owner feedback, service reports, and our own inspections, such as the certified comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should watch out for.

Alfa Romeo Tonale

Although the Alfa Romeo Tonale has been on the market for a relatively short time and is considered a mechanically solid car, teething troubles in roughly four-year-old used cars mainly concern the onboard software and the coordination of the hybrid powertrain.

• Electronics and software: Most complaints are directed at freezing infotainment and failures of the rear parking camera, for which a recall was even issued. Faster discharge of the 12V battery is also common, which causes confusing error messages on the dashboard display even when there is actually nothing wrong with the car.
• Transmission and drivetrain (Mild-hybrid): In the widely represented version with the 1.5-liter engine and dual-clutch transmission, owners often report jerky shifting, slipping, or delays when switching from electric mode to the internal combustion engine, especially when starting off or crawling at low speeds. An additional software update for the transmission control unit often helps.
• Plug-in hybrid system: On more powerful PHEV versions, warnings about power drops and communication failures with the battery may appear. If the system falls into limp mode, it is usually a software fault, but it requires a visit to an authorized service center and a system reflash.
• Build quality and details: Some users struggle with failing sensors in the touchless door handles, which stop responding over time due to moisture or use. Minor problems with the electric tailgate jamming have also been recorded.

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 is a proven and robust Swedish SUV, but due to its high weight and complex electronics, specific faults regularly appear on the used car market that are worth focusing on before purchase.

• Rapid brake wear: One of the most common mechanical complaints for the XC40 is very fast wear of brake pads and discs. On this heavier vehicle, these commonly require replacement after just 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers, and warping of the brake discs is also quite frequent, manifesting as significant steering wheel vibrations during braking.
• Infotainment and connectivity: The multimedia system occasionally suffers from freezing, black screens, or slow responses after starting the car. Problems with the integrated emergency call module (VCM) or onboard GPS errors, which must be resolved by system restarts, are no exception.
• Assistance systems (ADAS): Owners quite often report failures or, conversely, excessive and unnecessary sensitivity of the Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system, which can stop the car abruptly even without real danger. Unexpected deactivation of the Pilot Assist adaptive steering assistant is also known. Most of these issues have been addressed by the manufacturer through service updates.
• Hybrid and charging components: On plug-in hybrid powertrains (Recharge), charging ports sometimes malfunction, failing to recognize the connected cable so charging does not start. Isolated cases of the high-voltage system fuse blowing during starts in extreme frost have also been recorded, leading to a complete inability to start the car or a major power limitation.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and both of these models have specific areas that need attention. Although a thorough physical inspection of the used car is always recommended before purchase, here are several specific points you should focus on during a test drive.

When choosing an Alfa Romeo Tonale:

• Software and infotainment stability: Focus on the behavior of the onboard system and digital instrument cluster. Since it is a relatively new model (on the market since 2022), cars from the first year of production may suffer from occasional screen freezing or warning lights illuminating for no reason. Verify that the vehicle's software is fully updated.
• Smoothness of the mild-hybrid and TCT dual-clutch: On the most common 1.5 MHEV versions, carefully test the transition between pure electric coasting and the restarting of the internal combustion engine. The engagement should be smooth. If the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission jerks or hesitates significantly when pulling away or downshifting, it may indicate wear or the need for a calibration software update.
• Traction battery condition on the PHEV version: If you are considering the powerful plug-in hybrid (Q4), you cannot do without precise diagnostics. A comprehensive technical inspection of the car for this version should unconditionally include reading the battery's SOH (State of Health) to ensure that the real-world electric range is not suffering from excessive cell degradation.
• Fit and finish and interior acoustics: During the test drive on rougher asphalt or cobblestones, listen closely. Some of the early production units struggled with poorer fit and finish, which can manifest as creaking from the dashboard area or door panels.

When choosing a Volvo XC40:

• Chassis wear and axle play: The Volvo XC40 is a relatively heavy SUV, which inevitably takes a toll on the lifespan of the front axle. Try driving over several bumps or speed bumps during the test drive – a dull thumping from the front wheels often indicates worn control arm bushings or stabilizer links.
• Onboard system speed after starting: For models produced up to approximately 2021 (with the Sensus system), test how quickly the system boots up immediately after a cold start. It often takes a long time before the display starts to respond. For newer models (from late 2021) running on the Android Automotive platform, check the connection stability and the correct functioning of online map data.
• Brake system condition: Due to the higher kerb weight, the XC40's brake components tend to wear out faster. During the drive, check if the brake pedal pulses and if the steering wheel starts to vibrate when braking from higher speeds, which would indicate warped brake discs. Ideally, the lining depth should be verified by an independent used car inspection.
• PHEV powertrain coordination and cold vibrations: On the Recharge plug-in hybrid versions (T4 and T5), closely monitor the behavior of the three-cylinder internal combustion engine after a cold start. The transition between electric and combustion modes must be smooth, without significant hesitation from the dual-clutch transmission or noticeable vibrations penetrating the cabin.
• Leaking through the panoramic roof: If the car you are looking at has a sunroof, don't forget to check the passenger-side floor. The drainage channels of the roof module can easily become clogged with leaves and debris, which subsequently leads to moisture seeping into the interior.

Sources: ADAC, novinky.cz, idnes.cz, autorevue.cz, autosalon.tv, classiccars.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.