Volvo XC40 vs. Volkswagen T-Roc: Complete comparison 2026

The Volvo XC40 enters the scene as a premium compact SUV that embodies Scandinavian design, luxury, and renowned safety. Against it stands the Volkswagen T-Roc, a stylish and dynamic crossover designed to captivate in the urban jungle with its practicality and playful character. Let's take a detailed look at how these two titans in the compact SUV category stack up against each other.

Exterior Dimensions: A Battle of Centimetres

Looking at the exterior dimensions, it is immediately clear that the Volvo XC40 and the Volkswagen T-Roc are in slightly different leagues, although both are compact SUVs. The Volvo is larger in all key parameters, indicating its premium focus with an emphasis on space and comfort. The T-Roc, on the other hand, is more down-to-earth, and its more compact body promises better agility, especially in an urban environment.

With a length of over 4.4 metres, the XC40 is a noticeable 20 centimetres longer than the T-Roc. This difference is most evident in the wheelbase, where the Volvo offers more than 10 centimetres of extra distance between the wheels. In practice, this means significantly more legroom for rear-seat passengers and a generally airier cabin. The longer wheelbase also contributes to better driving stability on the motorway. For families looking for maximum interior space, the XC40 is the clear favourite.

The differences continue in width and height. The Volvo is more than 4 cm wider and almost 8 cm taller, giving it a more robust stance and a better view for the occupants. You'll appreciate the extra shoulder room, especially when travelling with five people. The more compact T-Roc is therefore more agile in narrow streets and easier to park, making it an ideal city companion that won't get lost on longer journeys.

Boot Volume and Practicality

The practicality and size of the luggage compartment are key in the compact SUV segment. And this is where the Volvo XC40 and the Volkswagen T-Roc differ more than it might seem at first glance. While the T-Roc entices with a larger basic volume on paper for front-wheel-drive versions, the Volvo counters with a more balanced offering across all variants and smarter use of space.

The Volkswagen T-Roc in front-wheel drive offers an above-average 445 litres in its class. That's enough space for a family holiday or for transporting bulkier items. However, the crucial turning point comes with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive versions, where the boot shrinks to a noticeably smaller 392 litres due to the technology under the floor. This difference needs to be considered if all-wheel drive is a priority for you. With the seats folded down, the T-Roc offers a maximum of 1290 litres (for FWD) and 1237 litres (for 4x4). In the used car market, you can also find a specific convertible version, which logically has the smallest boot with a volume of just 284 litres.

On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 approaches practicality more consistently. Most combustion versions (petrol and diesel) offer a solid 452 litres (around 433 litres in older model years), regardless of whether you have the front-wheel or all-wheel-drive version. Volvo does not penalise those interested in AWD by reducing the boot size. The exceptions are the electrified variants – plug-in hybrids have a reduced boot size of 405 litres. Folding down the rear seats creates a space of up to 1328 litres, which means the Volvo slightly surpasses its German rival and confirms its reputation as a practical car.

Trailer Weight: A Clear Advantage for Volvo

The ability to tow a trailer is a key parameter for an SUV, and in this respect, the Volvo XC40 clearly beats its German competitor. If you plan to regularly hitch up a caravan, a boat trailer or other heavy loads, the Swedish model offers significantly higher limits that give you more flexibility.

The Volvo XC40, in more powerful specifications such as the D4 diesel (140 kW) or the T5 and B5 petrol (182-184 kW), boasts a maximum braked trailer weight of up to 2100 kg. This is a figure that stands out in its class and can easily handle a larger family caravan. The T4 and T5 plug-in hybrid versions also do very well, managing a respectable 1800 kg. The basic petrol engines like the T2 and T3 still offer a solid 1600 kg. The electric variants can then tow 1500 to 1800 kg depending on the version.

The Volkswagen T-Roc is much more modest in this discipline. Its top versions, typically with the 2.0 TDI or 2.0 TSI engine (including the sporty R model), have a limit most often set at 1700 kg, with older specifications managing up to 1800 kg. The popular 1.5 TSI engine can tow a 1500 kg trailer, and the basic one-litre three-cylinder 1.0 TSI has to make do with 1300 kg. The T-Roc is fine for towing a light unbraked trailer for garden waste, but its capacity is limited for heavier trailers.

In short, for those for whom towing power is a priority, the Volvo XC40 is clearly the better choice. It offers higher limits across almost the entire engine range, making it a more versatile and capable partner for demanding tasks.

Engine Comparison: Premium Diversity vs. Corporate Efficiency

When it comes to engine choices, the paths of the Volvo XC40 and Volkswagen T-Roc diverge significantly. While Volvo bets on a broad and technologically advanced range including mild-hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and purely electric versions, Volkswagen sticks to its proven and efficient lineup of TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines. This differing philosophy fundamentally influences which driver each vehicle is better suited for.

Volvo XC40: A Wide Range from Petrol to Pure Electric

The Volvo XC40 offers one of the most diverse engine ranges in its class. On the used car market, you will encounter older pure petrol (designated as T) and diesel (D) engines. However, these were gradually replaced by more modern mild-hybrid variants (B), which reduce fuel consumption and emissions. For those interested in maximum urban savings, the key options are the plug-in hybrid versions (Recharge T4 and T5), which combine a three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, allowing for dozens of kilometers on pure electricity. The range is crowned by the fully electric variants (Recharge), which make the XC40 a quiet and dynamic companion for the city and longer journeys—an advantage the T-Roc cannot offer.

Selected Volvo XC40 Engines (2018–2024 Generation)

*Note: On the used car market, you may also encounter other performance variants, such as the T2, T4, T5 petrol engines or the D4 diesel. Over time, the combustion engines were fully replaced by mild-hybrid and electric versions.

Volkswagen T-Roc: Proven TSI and TDI Engines

The Volkswagen T-Roc opts for a more conservative, yet time-tested strategy. The foundation is the economical three-cylinder 1.0 TSI, ideal for urban and suburban driving. The most popular choice is the four-cylinder 1.5 TSI with 110 kW, which represents an excellent compromise between performance and fuel economy. For drivers who cover long distances, the 2.0 TDI diesel engine is available in several power outputs. At the top of the range is the sporty T-Roc R version with a powerful two-litre TSI, 4MOTION all-wheel drive, and 221 kW (300 hp), making it a "hot-hatch" in an SUV body. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive is also available for the more powerful versions of the 2.0 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines.

Selected VW T-Roc Engines (2017–2024 Generation)

*Note: In the first years of production, a 1.6 TDI diesel engine was also available, which was later replaced by a more economical and powerful version of the 2.0 TDI engine.

Engine Verdict: Which Drivetrain is for You?

• The Volvo XC40 is the clear choice for drivers seeking modern technology, premium comfort, and especially the option of an electrified powertrain. Plug-in hybrids are ideal for those who commute shorter distances daily and want to drive on electricity, while mild-hybrids offer refined performance and lower consumption compared to older engines.
• The Volkswagen T-Roc will appeal to pragmatic drivers who prefer proven and reliable technology. The 1.5 TSI engine is a fantastic all-rounder for daily use, the 2.0 TDI is an unstoppable motorway mile-eater, and the R version will satisfy even the most demanding drivers craving a sporty experience. Its range is simpler but covers the needs of most customers.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction with a car. It's not just about straight-line performance, but about the overall harmony with the vehicle's character. Our recommendations are therefore based on a combination of dynamics, real-world fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. Volvo and Volkswagen approach powertrains differently: after 2020, Volvo focused completely on electrification and abandoned diesels, while the T-Roc still offers a proven and wide range of corporate engines, including economical diesel variants.

For the Volvo XC40, We Recommend: The B4 Petrol Mild-Hybrid (197 hp)

In the XC40's engine lineup from the years most relevant to the used car market, the B4 version represents the ideal compromise. Whether with front-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD), this two-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with mild-hybrid technology is the best choice for most drivers. It replaced the older but very similar T4 unit, bringing refinement, sufficient power, and reasonable fuel consumption.

• Why it's the best choice: With 197 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, the B4 engine offers confident dynamics for safe overtaking and motorway driving. The mild-hybrid system helps to smooth out the start-stop system's function and slightly reduces fuel consumption in the city. In real-world conditions, fuel consumption ranges between 7.5 and 8.5 litres per 100 km, which is an adequate figure for a premium SUV of this size and performance. It is a versatile engine that feels at home in the city as well as on long journeys.
• Strengths and risks: This is a proven engine from the Volvo Drive-E family, which does not suffer from major systemic problems. The mild-hybrid system is simple and reliable. As with any modern direct-injection engine, it is crucial to use high-quality fuel to prevent the formation of carbon deposits.
• Who it's ideal for: For drivers looking for a versatile, quiet, and powerful engine for everyday use. The AWD version adds confidence in adverse conditions. For drivers with very high annual mileage who drive mainly outside the city, it still makes sense to look for the older but excellent D4 (190 hp) diesel engine, which was available until around 2020. It offers massive torque and fuel consumption of around 6 l/100 km, but requires regular longer journeys for proper DPF filter regeneration.

For the Volkswagen T-Roc, we recommend: The 1.5 TSI ACT petrol engine (150 hp)

While the basic one-litre three-cylinder is more of an emergency solution for the T-Roc, and the two-litre engines are unnecessarily powerful and expensive, the 1.5 TSI engine with 150 hp is the golden mean and the most sensible choice. This engine is the heart of the range and perfectly matches the car's character – it's sufficiently agile, economical, and refined.

• Why it's the best choice: The 1.5 TSI unit is equipped with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which automatically deactivates two cylinders under low load (e.g., during steady motorway driving). This significantly reduces fuel consumption. In the real world, it's no problem to drive with an average of around 6.5 l/100 km. The engine is quiet, has smooth power delivery, and its 150 hp and 250 Nm are more than enough for family trips and spirited driving.
• Strengths and risks: This engine is generally considered reliable. Early versions (around 2018-2019) sometimes had a "jerking" issue on cold starts, which was resolved with a control unit software update. With a used car, it's important to test for smooth starts from cold. In combination with the DSG gearbox, it forms a very comfortable powertrain.
• Who it's ideal for: Practically everyone. It's a great all-rounder for commuting, weekend trips, and holidays. Its fuel efficiency also makes it attractive to high-mileage drivers who don't want a diesel engine. For those who spend most of their time on motorways, an alternative is the proven and very economical 2.0 TDI (150 hp) engine, which offers even lower consumption (around 5 l/100 km) and massive torque.

Real-World Fuel Consumption Comparison

Official fuel consumption figures, measured under laboratory conditions using the WLTP cycle, are one thing, but the reality on the road is often different. That's why we looked at data from drivers themselves, primarily from the German portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects real refuelling data from thousands of owners. These values provide a much better reflection of the running costs you can expect with used cars.

In the following table, we present the average real-world consumption for the most common engine versions of both models from years relevant to the used car market, i.e., from around 2019 onwards.

The data clearly shows that the Volkswagen T-Roc is the more economical car overall. Its modern petrol engines, especially the popular 1.5 TSI with cylinder deactivation technology, can achieve a very favourable consumption of around 6.7 l/100 km, which is more than a litre less than comparably powerful petrol engines in the Volvo. The premium character and higher weight of the XC40 are reflected in its greater appetite.

The biggest difference is noticeable in the diesel engines. While the 2.0 TDI engine in the T-Roc comfortably stays under six litres in real-world driving, the D3 engine in the Volvo averages around 6.5 litres. For drivers who cover tens of thousands of kilometres per year, the T-Roc represents a significantly cheaper option in terms of fuel costs. For a buyer focused primarily on the lowest possible running costs, the Volkswagen is the clear favourite. On the other hand, if fuel consumption is secondary to comfort and safety for you, the Volvo XC40's higher appetite may not be an obstacle.

Price and Availability on the Used Car Market

When comparing the prices of used cars, the Volvo XC40 and Volkswagen T-Roc are in different price brackets, reflecting their market positions – a premium segment versus a mass-market brand. The availability of both models from 2020 to 2022 is quite broad on the used car market, giving potential buyers a decent range of choices.

Volkswagen T-Roc: A More Affordable Entry into the World of SUVs

The Volkswagen T-Roc is the more affordable option. Used models from 2020–2022 can be purchased for prices starting at around €14,000. For this amount, you'll typically get versions with the basic 1.0 TSI engine and a lower trim level with higher mileage.

• Basic engines (1.0 TSI): Cars with this three-cylinder engine and a manual gearbox range from approximately €14,000 to €19,000, depending on mileage and equipment.
• More powerful petrol versions (1.5 TSI): The popular 1.5 TSI four-cylinder, often paired with a DSG automatic gearbox, starts at around €17,000, and better-equipped units with lower mileage can exceed €23,000.
• Diesel and top-tier versions (2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI 4Motion): Versions with a diesel engine or all-wheel drive are more expensive. Their prices typically range from €19,000 up to the €29,000 mark for models in the top R-Line trim with low mileage.

Volvo XC40: A Premium Car That Holds Its Value

As a premium vehicle, the Volvo XC40 holds its value significantly better. Prices for used models from 2020–2022 start at a considerably higher level, typically around €25,000. Even older cars from the start of production (around 2018) rarely drop below €21,000.

• Basic petrol engines (T2, T3): Even the base versions with the turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a manual gearbox are in the price range of €25,000 to €31,000.
• More powerful petrol versions (B3, B4, T4, T5): Four-cylinder variants, often as mild-hybrids (designated with the letter B) or with all-wheel drive, are the most common offering. Here, prices range from €27,000 and for better-equipped models in R-Design or Inscription trims with low mileage, they can climb over €35,000.
• Diesel and plug-in hybrid versions: Diesel engines (D3, D4) are less common on the market, and their prices mirror the more powerful petrol versions. The Recharge plug-in hybrid variants are the most expensive due to their more complex technology and higher original price, and their price for used cars often exceeds €37,000.

As a result, for the price of a better-equipped T-Roc with a more powerful engine and 4x4 drive, you are more likely to get a basic version of the Volvo XC40. The difference in purchase price is thus one of the main deciding factors between these two cars.

Safety: A Battle of Five-Star Titans

When it comes to safety, both the Volvo XC40 and the Volkswagen T-Roc boast the highest five-star rating from the independent organization Euro NCAP. However, it is crucial to place these results in the proper context. Euro NCAP's testing protocols are constantly becoming stricter, and therefore, percentage results from different years cannot be directly compared. A star earned in a more recent test simply carries more weight.

Volvo XC40 (Tested 2018)

The Volvo XC40 underwent crash tests in 2018 and came away with an excellent score. With a result of 97% for adult occupant protection, it ranked among the absolute top in its segment. It also performed above average in child occupant protection (87%). Its rating reflects the standards in place in 2018, which already included advanced tests of assistance systems, such as emergency braking with cyclist detection. Although several years have passed since the test, the Volvo brand's reputation and the wide range of safety features supplied as standard guarantee an exceptionally high level of safety.

Volkswagen T-Roc (Tested 2017)

The Volkswagen T-Roc was tested a year earlier, in 2017, and also easily achieved five stars. In adult occupant protection, it scored just one percent less than the XC40 (96%), and in child protection, it achieved an identical score (87%). This excellent result proves that the T-Roc was also designed with maximum emphasis on safety at the time of its launch. For a used car buyer, it is important to know that this generation also offers a solid foundation of passive and active safety, even though the tests for assistance systems were not as comprehensive then as they are today.

Verdict and Comparison of Results

Both cars are among the safest in their class and represent an excellent choice for family use. The Volvo XC40 was tested a year later according to slightly stricter criteria and achieved a top rating in adult protection. However, the Volkswagen T-Roc is only minimally behind and fully matches its rival in child protection. The main difference for a used car buyer is that the standards for testing assistance systems and protecting vulnerable road users have advanced since then. Nevertheless, you can't go wrong with either of these models in terms of safety.

In addition to the standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that may be decisive for a potential buyer. While Volvo focuses on premium comfort and clever practicality, Volkswagen concentrates on sporty style and technological customisation.

Volvo XC40: Scandinavian Cleverness and Safety

The Volvo XC40 brings a range of innovative solutions, typical for the brand, to the compact SUV segment. The emphasis is on minimalism, intuitive operation, and maximum safety.

• Sensus Infotainment: The centrepiece of the dashboard is the vertically oriented 9-inch touchscreen of the Sensus system. Its operation is reminiscent of a tablet and integrates most of the vehicle's functions, from air conditioning to navigation and assistance system settings. The graphics are clean, and the system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Smart storage solutions: Volvo's designers focused on everyday usability. The interior features many practical details – for example, a removable rubbish bin in the centre console, a hook for hanging a bag by the glove compartment, or large door pockets that can even fit a laptop. The speakers have been moved from the doors to free up space.
• Safety as standard: The XC40 is equipped with an extensive City Safety assistance systems package, which is part of the standard equipment. The system can recognise not only other vehicles but also pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals, and actively brake in the event of an impending collision. An advanced Pilot Assist system is optionally available, which keeps the car in its lane and maintains a safe distance at speeds of up to 130 km/h.
• Powertrain and comfort: In addition to classic petrol and diesel engines, the XC40 was also offered as a plug-in hybrid (designated as Recharge), which allows for quiet, emission-free driving over shorter distances. The chassis is tuned primarily for comfort, making the XC40 a great companion for long journeys as well as city driving.

Volkswagen T-Roc: Sporting Spirit and Digital Modernity

The Volkswagen T-Roc is aimed at drivers looking for a more dynamic appearance and a modern digital environment. It offers a wide range of customisation options and several unique features in its class.

• Digital Cockpit Pro: The T-Roc was one of the first models in its class to offer a fully digital instrument cluster (Active Info Display, later Digital Cockpit). It allows the driver to customise the display – from classic dials to a large-scale navigation map display directly in front of them.
• R-Line sports package: For those who desire a sportier look, the R-Line package is available. It includes specific bumpers, sports seats, a multifunction steering wheel with the R-Line logo, and often a sports suspension. This gives the T-Roc a significantly sharper and more dynamic appearance.
• Unique Cabriolet version: An absolute rarity in the SUV segment is the T-Roc Cabriolet. The two-door version with a fabric convertible top combines a raised seating position with the feeling of driving with the wind in your hair, something no other competitor in this class offers.
• DCC adaptive chassis control: In higher trim levels or for an extra charge, the T-Roc could be equipped with the DCC adaptive chassis. This allows the driver to change the stiffness of the shock absorbers and thus adapt the car's behaviour to their driving style – from a comfortable ride to a stiff, sporty setting for cornering.

Volvo XC40

Advantages:

• Premium interior and quality of materials: Inside, the XC40 feels more valuable thanks to the use of high-quality materials and a Scandinavian design that sets it apart from its German competition.
• High level of safety: Volvo traditionally prides itself on safety, and the XC40 is no exception. It offers a wide range of standard and optional assistance systems, including the semi-autonomous Pilot Assist.
• Comfortable suspension: The suspension is tuned primarily for comfort, absorbing bumps excellently and ensuring a comfortable ride even on longer journeys.
• Original and fresh design: Unlike many competitors, the XC40 has a distinctive and easily recognisable look that still feels modern even after several years.
• Practical interior details: It offers a range of clever solutions, such as large door pockets, a removable rubbish bin, or a bag hook on the passenger glove box.
• Ability to tow heavy trailers: Especially in all-wheel-drive variants with more powerful engines, the XC40 has an above-average towing capacity for its class.

Disadvantages:

• Higher purchase price and costs: As a premium vehicle, the XC40 is more expensive than the T-Roc, both in terms of purchase price and the cost of servicing and spare parts.
• Average fuel consumption: Fuel consumption is on the higher side, especially for the more powerful petrol engines and all-wheel-drive versions.
• More complicated infotainment: The central vertically-oriented touchscreen looks modern, but its operation while driving can be less intuitive, and the system sometimes responds slowly.
• Smaller luggage compartment: With a basic volume of 460 litres, it offers slightly less luggage space than the T-Roc.
• Reported problems with electronics: Some cars may experience issues with the infotainment system, the start-stop system, or key recognition.

Volkswagen T-Roc

Advantages:

• More favourable price and value for money: The T-Roc offers similar size and practicality to its premium competitors but at a significantly lower purchase price.
• Wide range of engines and versions: Customers can choose from economical three-cylinders, powerful four-cylinders, efficient diesels, and even a sporty R version or a cabriolet variant.
• Confident and agile driving characteristics: The T-Roc's chassis provides an excellent compromise between comfort and agility, making it more fun to drive and feel stable in corners.
• Intuitive controls and good ergonomics: The classic interior layout with physical buttons and a well-functioning infotainment system is easy for most drivers to understand.
• Availability of 4Motion all-wheel drive: Unlike some competitors in this class, the T-Roc offers the option of 4x4, which increases its versatility.

Disadvantages:

• Cheaper-feeling interior materials: Especially in pre-facelift models (before 2022), the quality of the plastics in the cabin was often criticised and felt cheap.
• More conservative design: The T-Roc's appearance is typical of Volkswagen – functional and timeless, but it lacks the originality and premium flair of the XC40.
• Noisier interior at higher speeds: Aerodynamic and road noise is more noticeable on the motorway than in more premium models like the XC40.
• Potential problems with the DSG gearbox: After a certain mileage, dual-clutch DSG gearboxes may experience jerky shifting, especially at low speeds.
• Torsion beam rear axle on less powerful versions: Models with engines up to 110 kW and front-wheel drive use a simpler rear axle, which can slightly reduce ride comfort on uneven surfaces.

What to Look Out For: Common Problems and Reliability

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and owner feedback, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should look out for. Although both models are considered relatively reliable, neither is flawless.

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 generally has a reputation as a safe and well-built car, but some areas require extra attention when buying a used one.

• Electronics and Infotainment: The most commonly reported issue is occasional malfunctions of the infotainment system. These manifest as a frozen screen, slow responses, or problems with phone connectivity. Most of these issues are resolved by a software update, so it's a good idea to check if the car is running the latest version. On hybrid versions, there have been complaints about the start-stop function, which doesn't always activate correctly.
• Engine and Gearbox: Petrol engines, especially the three-cylinder T2/T3, can be more sensitive to fuel quality and regular servicing. For diesel engines, the condition of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) is key, especially if the car has often been driven for short distances. With automatic gearboxes, it is essential to adhere to oil change intervals to maintain smooth operation.
• Chassis and Brakes: The chassis is robust, but cars with higher mileage may develop play in the suspension. Some owners have reported premature wear of the brake pads, which is a consequence of the car's higher weight. A thorough technical inspection of the car before purchase is advisable here.
• Recalls: The XC40 model has undergone several recalls. These concerned, for example, the automatic emergency braking software, a faulty GPS module, or problems with the braking system on plug-in hybrid models. It is crucial to check whether all these actions have been carried out on the selected vehicle.

Summary for the Volvo XC40: The problems are more related to software and electronics, which can often be resolved with an update. The mechanical parts are reliable with proper maintenance. A thorough check of the service history is an absolute must.

Volkswagen T-Roc

The Volkswagen T-Roc shares many components with other models from the group, which means it has proven technology but also some known and recurring problems.

• DSG Gearbox: The dual-clutch DSG gearbox, especially the 7-speed version with dry clutches (DQ200), can suffer from jerking when starting off or worn clutches at higher mileage and with neglected maintenance. The wet-clutch versions are generally more durable but require a regular oil change every 60,000 km.
• 1.5 TSI Engine and "Kangarooing Effect": Early versions of the 1.5 TSI engine were infamous for jerking when starting with a cold engine, so-called "kangarooing." This problem was in most cases resolved by a software update for the engine control unit, but it is still a good idea to check the car's behaviour during a test drive.
• Electronics and Interior: Some users report occasional freezing of the infotainment system, which requires a system restart. In the interior of older units, creaking plastic parts may occur, especially in the area of the centre console and door panels.
• Recalls: The T-Roc has also had several recalls. These addressed issues such as potentially faulty welded brake pedals, problems with the seatbelt retractor, or loosening engine covers. An independent check of the car's technical condition should also include verification of the complete recall history.

Summary for the Volkswagen T-Roc: Most of the known problems are of a technical nature and relate to proven but sometimes problematic group components (DSG, 1.5 TSI). A thorough inspection and a documented service history are key to a trouble-free purchase.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and these two models are no exception. Although both are considered reliable cars, they have their specific areas that are good to focus on to prevent expensive repairs in the future.

When choosing a Volvo XC40:

• Check the Sensus infotainment: The system can occasionally freeze or restart on its own. During the test drive, try all the functions – navigation, playing music from your phone, the radio, and the reversing camera. Freezing or a black screen could mean the need for an expensive software update or, in the worst case, a replacement of the entire unit.
• Functionality of the electric tailgate: Some owners report problems with closing the boot, where the motor runs but the door does not close completely. Try opening and closing it several times in a row using the button on the door, the key, and from the driver's seat. Any hesitation is a reason for increased caution.
• Operation of the automatic gearbox: The eight-speed Aisin automatic is generally reliable but sensitive to regular oil changes (ideally every 60,000 km). On a test drive, focus on the smoothness of the gear shifts at both a calm and a more dynamic pace. Jerking or noticeable delays when shifting can signal neglected servicing.
• Check the assistance systems: Cars from the first years of production could have software bugs that affected, for example, the autonomous braking system. Make sure the car is not reporting any error messages and that systems like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist are working correctly.
• Condition of the chassis and bodywork: Although it may sound surprising for a Volvo, some sources mention a risk of premature corrosion. Therefore, thoroughly inspect the underside of the car, the fender arches, and the area around the tailgate. Any suspicious blisters deserve a more detailed physical inspection of the used car.

When choosing a Volkswagen T-Roc:

• Behaviour of the DSG gearbox: Especially with the seven-speed "dry" DQ200 variant (paired with weaker engines), jerking can occur when starting off and crawling in traffic. During the test drive, simulate these situations and watch whether the gearbox shifts smoothly and without jerking. For all types of DSG, a regular oil change is key to their longevity.
• Smoothness of the 1.5 TSI engine: This otherwise successful engine could suffer from the so-called "kangarooing effect" in older versions – jerking and an unwillingness to accelerate smoothly at low revs. The problem was usually solved by a software update for the control unit. During the test drive, focus on smooth starts and acceleration from low speed.
• Infotainment and electronics functionality: Just as with the Volvo, software issues can appear here too. A freezing screen, non-functional phone connectivity, or problems with the Start-Stop system are not uncommon. Carefully test all functions and verify that the system responds quickly.
• Brake system condition: The rear brakes, in particular, can be more prone to corrosion, which manifests as a humming or vibration during braking. A comprehensive vehicle inspection will reveal the condition of the discs and pads, but also pay attention to any unusual sounds while driving.
• Chassis noise: When driving over bumps, listen for any knocking or creaking sounds from the axles. These can indicate worn bushings or other suspension parts, which, while fixable, is still a costly issue.

Sources: ADAC, novinky.cz, aktualne.cz, dopravniinfo.cz, autotechnik.cz, autosvet.cz

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