Volvo XC40 Vs. Audi Q3: How Do They Compare?
When an agile and efficient luxury SUV is on your mind, comparing the Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 will help you pick the best of this satisfying segment. Your needs and lifestyle will be catered to in either model, but with the Volvo XC40 going above and beyond to offer more efficiency, power, strength, and luxury, it can leave its Audi competitor far behind. Keep reading through our Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 guide to see the details.
Once you've had a taste of the popular Volvo XC40 SUV's benefits, our team of specialists can help you discover it all with a guided tour of our current inventory. Take a test drive today at Volvo Cars of Cary.
| 2024 Volvo XC40 B5 AWD
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2024 Audi Q3 40 TFSI
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| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder w/ mild hybrid | 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder w/ mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 247 | 184 |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic | Eight-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| 0-60 mph | 6.1 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| EPA-Estimated MPG (City/Highway/Combined) | 24/30/261 | 22/29/252 |
| Seating Capacity | Five | Five |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs3 | Not rated for towing |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 57.5 cu ft | 48 cu ft |
Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 Fuel Efficiency and EV Options
Right off the bat, the 2024 Volvo XC40 for sale outruns the Audi Q3 while delivering more MPGs. The Volvo XC40 also has an all-electric counterpart, the 402-horsepower Volvo XC40 Recharge, while the Audi Q3 does not offer an electrified version of itself.
As you saw in the chart above, the Audi Q3 is 2.5 seconds slower in the 0-60 mph sprint and also delivers an EPA-estimated 22 MPG city2 vs. the Volvo XC40 SUV's EPA-estimated 24 MPG city.1 This distinction is one of many exceptional feats by Volvo Cars, since it defies the trend of more powerful, faster vehicles delivering lower MPGs than their slower competitors.
2024 Audi Q3 vs. 2024 Volvo XC40 Performance Specs
Choosing the Volvo XC40 will give you much more performance than the Audi Q3. Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 performance starts with the B5 AWD powertrain as standard in the Volvo XC40, making the model's fast acceleration possible with a hearty output. This powertrain uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and mild hybrid system, together making 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
The Audi Q3, as mentioned, falls short of this power and performance. It has a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with mild hybrid enhancement called "40 TFSI" but only makes 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. AWD is also standard, but this Audi Q3 configuration does 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds. At face value, the Audi Q3 is slower, and even when digging deeper, it remains that way.
Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 engine upgrades see the Audi Q3 come up short with a 228-horsepower version of its four-cylinder engine, known as 45 TFSI. This spec is joined by 251 pound-feet of torque, letting this version motivate the model from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, still a full second slower than the Volvo XC40.
If you upgrade to the all-electric 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge with 402 horsepower, you can leave Audi Q3 drivers even farther behind with a 4.7-second 0-60 mph time.
To conclude the Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 performance showdown, the Volvo XC40 pulls up with a 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity.3 The Audi Q3 cannot respond, as it is not rated for towing.
Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 Dimensions
When comparing the 2024 Audi Q3 vs. 2024 Volvo XC40, we see that one offers more agility across its exterior dimensions, all while being able to provide equal or larger interior measurements. The Volvo XC40 boasts a 174.2-inch length for easy city parking agility, while the Audi Q3 offers a comparable 176.6-inch length. With mirrors included, both vehicles come within 0.4 inches of each other for width, making both of them adept city commuting vehicles.
The Volvo XC40 is 65.3 inches tall, which is more than the Audi Q3 offers at only 62.9 inches. As your rear-seat passengers step inside, they'll get to enjoy this height advantage thanks to 39.1 inches of rear headroom - the Audi Q3 has 37.6 inches of rear headroom. The Volvo XC40 also offers the same rear legroom as the Audi Q3 (36.1 inches) but has 0.9 inches of extra front-row legroom.
Other interior dimensions continue the trend. The Volvo XC40 is a champion of cargo space with up to 57.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, while the Audi Q3 offers only 48 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 Interior
The Audi Q3 and the Volvo XC40 offer ample interior features that make them worthy of your time, including a touch-screen display, comfortable leather seating options, and heated front seats. However, opt for the Volvo XC40 for practical storage solutions for everyday items like water bottles and shopping bags - something the Audi Q3 forgoes.
Similarly, while the Volvo XC40 has a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, the Audi Q3 has a 10.25-inch equivalent and locks its 12.3-inch version in an optional package.
The Audi Q3 offers sleek seating, but the Volvo XC40 provides textile or vegan leather options designed with sustainability and chic style in mind. Both SUVs will offer heated front seating and a gear shift knob that will accentuate the vehicle's interior look. Choose the Volvo XC40 for an available crystal gear selector by Orrefors® - something you won't get on the Audi Q3.
Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 Safety
When comparing Audi Q3 vs. Volvo XC40 safety features, we find that the Volvo XC40 can offer more safety features than the Audi Q3. While the Audi Q3 provides the Audi pre sense front, which helps prevent collisions or bumps with other vehicles, the Volvo XC40 delivers an oncoming collision mitigation system that can automatically steer your vehicle to safety. The Volvo XC40 can also provide the Volvo Pilot Assist, which offers semi-autonomous capabilities for easier highway drives.
Choose the Volvo XC40 for a standard blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance, and more. With an available 360-degree camera and park assist for the rear and front, you will have ample opportunity to avoid scrapes and dents in your new Volvo XC40.
Test-Drive the Volvo XC40 Today
The comparison between the Volvo XC40 and the Audi Q3 shows us there is one winner in performance, safety, and interior features: the Volvo XC40. Visit our Volvo dealership in Cary, NC, to get a better idea of how this SUV functions and how you can lease a new Volvo XC40. Our team is more than happy to answer any questions you may have and walk you through our lease options.
For a closer look at the thrilling and eco-friendly Volvo XC40 EV we mentioned earlier, check out the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, which can net you an EPA-estimated 223 miles of pure electric range.4 Check with our specialists to see how you can get a Volvo SUV with mild hybrid or all-electric capability today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Volvo XC40 safer than the Audi Q3?
The Volvo XC40 and the Audi Q3 have a wide range of safety features that differ. The Audi Q3 has an array of airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. You can also rely on this vehicle for a cruise control system and progressive steering. The Volvo XC40 has all these features, a 360-degree camera, and intelligent technology to avoid collisions.
Can the XC40 tow more than the Audi Q3?
When comparing the Volvo XC40 and the Audi Q3 towing capacity, we see a clear winner with the Volvo XC40. This mild hybrid SUV can tow up to 3,500 pounds3 when properly equipped, meaning you'll be able to get all your gear and equipment where it needs to go. Meanwhile, the 2024 Audi Q3 is not rated for towing.
How does the Volvo XC40 compare to the Audi Q3 in terms of performance?
The Volvo XC40 offers better performance than the Audi Q3. The Audi Q3 offers up to 228 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque, while the Volvo XC40, with its standard B5 AWD powertrain, offers 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Volvo XC40 also goes from 0 to 60 in 6.1 seconds, which is 2.5 seconds faster than the Audi Q3.
Find the Perfect Volvo Model for Your Needs
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| Volvo XC40 Recharge vs. Hyundai IONIQ 5 | 2025 vs 2024 Volvo XC40 |
1For more information, please visit the official US government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov.
222 city/29 highway/25 combined city/hwy MPG (2024 Audi Q3 40 TFSI quattro). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
3When properly equipped.
4Anticipated range is according to WLTP and EPA driving cycles and real-world range may vary.