The landscape of the luxury SUV world is rapidly changing, as carmakers from around the globe compete to earn your business. Two of the top names in the game are Volvo and Audi, both of which have long been synonymous with upscale automobiles.
In terms of compact SUVs, the latest offerings from these two are the Volvo XC40 and the Audi Q3. Both bring their own unique combination of style, sophistication and technology to the ball, but which do you want to be dancing with at the end of the night?
To help you decide, we’ll put together a head-to-head comparison of some of the most important features today’s drivers look for when purchasing their next luxury SUV.
Volvo XC40 vs. Audi Q3: Safety & Technology
In today’s high-tech society, safety reigns supreme among car buyers. That’s all the more relevant when it comes to luxury brands like Volvo and Audi, which are expected to load their vehicles with all of the latest features to make your drive safer.
In this category, the Volvo XC40 is the clear winner. While both cars provide plenty of standard safety technology, the XC40 tops its competition with automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. The Q3 offers a superior infotainment system (as all Audis do), but that doesn’t take much away from the plethora of technology that comes standard on the XC40.
Volvo XC40 vs. Audi Q3: Interior
In all honesty, there’s a lot to like about the interiors of both the Volvo XC40 and Q3. As you’d expect from luxury carmakers like Volvo and Audi, they both offer a level of class and style that makes you feel like you’re riding into the future on a silver cloud. However, one of these models has to take the cake, right?
That would be the XC40, which delivers a driving experience that trumps the competition. With a well-appointed trim, sleek lines and an uncompromising sense of sophistication, Volvo pulls out all of the stops with the XC40’s interior design. On top of that, it offers a number of clever storage spaces that more than make up for the slightly smaller overall cargo capacity.
Volvo XC40 vs. Audi Q3: Engine/Performance
In terms of performance, the XC40 gets the best of its competitor. While both feature 2L turbocharged four-cylinder engines, Volvo’s build brings an additional 20 horsepower - 248 compared to 228. The XC40 also provides superior acceleration and a smoother transition between gears, making it the clear-cut winner in the performance department.
Fuel efficiency also leans in the Volvo XC40’s direction. The Volvo gets an estimated 27 mpg combined, whereas the Q3 gets an esteemed 22 mpg combined. Just one more tally mark in the XC40’s column.
Volvo XC40 vs. Audi Q3: Price
It’s clear the Volvo XC40 and the Audi Q3 are aiming at the same prospective buyers -- the prices are nearly identical. The base Volvo comes in at $33,700, while the base Audi will cost you $34,700. While the $1,000 difference is fairly negligible when putting these two SUVs toe-to-toe, it still gives the XC40 a slight edge.
The Verdict
It’s not easy finding a truly luxurious vehicle in this price range, but the XC40 more than pulls it off. While that doesn’t take away from the impressive package that Audi put together with the Q3, it doesn’t give drivers the same seductive bundle of features that the XC40 brings to the table. If you’re looking for the best combination of features and superior performance, Volvo’s standout compact SUV is the way to go.
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