The name sounds odd, but the Touareg offers a comfortable ride and spirited performance—something we all can understand. Its 3.6-liter V-6 makes 280 hp and is mated to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. The Touareg is large, comfortable, and solid—plus it’s equally at home both on and off the pavement. A standard touchscreen infotainment display is functional but dated; the optional adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking, however, are well engineered and effective.
PROS Comfortable, tech-laden interior Active safety functions 3.5 tonne towing, real off-road ability Ride on standard air suspension
CONS No seven-seat option Lacks a full-size spare tyre Expensive for a Volkswagen
The XC40 Recharge is an all-new model for Volvo this year and represents the Swedish brand's first foray into all-electric propulsion—that's if you don't count its Polestar division's new Polestar 2 EV.
Pros Attractive styling, peppy acceleration, thoughtfully designed cabin.
Cons Key rivals offer more driving range, hefty curb weight, much pricier than the gasoline model.
For 2021 New fully electric version of the XC40,402 horsepower,Estimated 208 miles of range.
Pros Quick acceleration Easy-to-use infotainment system Practical SUV body style
Cons Less range than rival EVs Below-average energy efficiency Small cargo area
The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric has an appealing interior, a decent electric range, rapid performance and impressive safety credentials. It’s expensive next to many rivals, but the lower-spec models stack up fairly well next to similarly premium (if often larger and, in some cases, more fun) alternatives.
Pros High-quality interior Rapid performance Decent range
Cons Expensive next to many rivals Fiddly infotainment menus No traditional PCP finance
