The Tesla Model 3 is one of the most popular vehicles from Tesla, a company that has made an incredible leap into the electric vehicle market, selling the most electric vehicles in 2022. While other companies are slowly catching up, Volvo is entering the market with its famous XC40 SUV. Therefore, a test of the Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40 makes the most sense, as they’re two very affordable electric vehicles that make great first EVs.
The great thing about Volvo is that they have turned one of their best-selling gas-powered vehicles into an all-electric vehicle that can rival the Tesla Model 3. On top of that, you can even opt for the hybrid version. Below, you’ll find out how the Volvo XC40 compares to the Tesla Model 3. Even though they’re two different types of vehicles, you should consider how you want to invest your money for your next vehicle!
Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Tesla Model 3 | Volvo XC40 |
|---|---|---|
| Release date | July 2017 | September 2021 |
| Range | 325 miles | 293 miles |
| Trims | 3 trim levels | 3 trim levels |
| Seating | 5-seater | 5-seater |
| Price | $40,240 | $36,350 |
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Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40: Key Differences
The Tesla Model 3 and the Volvo XC40 may look like two different cars at first glance. While the Model 3 is an all-electric sedan, the XC40 is an all-electric SUV that also comes in gasoline and hybrid versions. The design is also very different, but the available cargo space isn’t, which is pretty interesting. Here are the major differences you can expect.
Range and Battery Capacity
Tesla’s Model 3 is an all-electric vehicle with a fast-charging battery that provides a range of about 325 miles on a full charge. The Model 3’s battery has a capacity of 54 to 75kWh, depending on the trim level. The all-electric version of the Volvo XC40, on the other hand, can travel up to 293 miles on a full charge with a single motor and a 79kWh battery pack. In contrast, the dual-motor Volvo XC40 AWD comes with a 75kWh battery pack and an estimated range of 253 miles on a full charge.
Small Sedan vs. SUV
The Tesla Model 3 is a small sedan, while the Volvo XC40 is an entry-level SUV in Volvo’s SUV lineup. Both vehicles are 5-seaters, but the Volvo XC40 has a capacity of 16 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, while the Tesla Model 3 offers 19.8 cubic feet of cargo space. In addition, the Tesla Model 3 still has about 3 cubic meters of space in the front trunk. While we expected a much bigger difference in cargo space, there is actually a big difference in comfort, as SUVs offer more legroom and a better seating position.
Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40: What are the Similarities?
Both the Tesla Model 3 and the Volvo XC40 are very sleek and somewhat luxurious electric vehicles. Further, both have some sort of pilot assistance. Finally, both have minimalist interiors with a large screen.
Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40: 5 Must-Know Facts
- The Tesla Model 3 comes in three different trim levels: Base, Long-Range, and Performance
- The Volvo XC40 is Volvo’s first all-electric SUV, but it’s also available in gasoline and hybrid versions
- The Model 3’s battery can travel about 325 miles on a full charge, while the Volvo XC40’s battery can only travel about 293 miles on a full charge in the best trim levels of both EVs
- The Tesla Model 3 is a midsize sedan, while the Volvo XC40 is an SUV
- Both cars have their own driver assistance system
The History of the Tesla Model 3 and Volvo XC40
The Tesla Model 3 became one of Tesla’s most affordable electric vehicles and the second best-selling electric vehicle in the United States due to its quality, versatility, and affordability. It has been on sale since 2017 and is available in three different trim levels: Base, Long-Range, and Performance. Over the years, the Model 3 has received upgrades to the system and components that enhance the driving experience, and to this day, it receives Tesla updates via the internet and a built-in computer. Last year alone, in 2022, Tesla sold 240,266 Model 3 vehicles in the United States. With competitors in the electric vehicle market slowly catching up, Tesla has even decided to lower the base price to $40,240 to keep up with the new electric vehicles on the market.
On the other hand, Volvo has a long history and has been producing one of the safest vehicles in the market, the XC40, since 2017. The first versions were powered by gasoline and diesel engines, and in 2020, they launched the hybrid version. Shortly after, in 2021, Volvo launched the Recharge version, a fully electric vehicle.
The Success of the Tesla Model 3 and Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 model was named Europe’s Car of the Year just a year after it went on sale. After that, it was even named Japan’s 2018/2019 Car of the Year. Since then, Volvo has continued to improve the XC40, building different versions to meet the needs of the market. So you can choose between the diesel, the gasoline, the hybrid, and the all-electric version. One of the reasons Volvo has had so much success with the XC40 is that the company has managed to create a subcompact luxury crossover SUV that offers a little bit of everything. And they did so at a very decent price.
The Tesla Model 3 is the most versatile electric vehicle, and it’s also the most versatile model in Tesla’s electric car lineup. It combines the best of all the other Tesla electric car models, so you’ll see a bit of the Model Y and Model S in the Model 3. In addition, the Tesla Model 3 is the most affordable Tesla electric vehicle on the market and has quickly become one of the best-selling electric vehicles in the entire history of the world.
The Model 3 has also won a number of plug-in electric vehicle awards, such as best-selling PEV in the U.S. for three consecutive years, best-selling PEV in Europe in 2019, and best-selling PEV in China in 2020. Tesla is also working on developing fully autonomous pilot software that will also be available for the Model 3 once the software launches. This will be another upgrade for the Model 3 that will ensure it sells for many years to come.
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Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40: Pros and Cons
Tesla Model 3 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The base price is great, and recently it has been lowered by Tesla | Pricier than the new Volvo XC40 even after the discount |
| Spacious and minimalistic interior | Doesn’t include a spare tire |
| Very decent range with all trim levels | Smaller battery capacity in the base model |
| Great acceleration and 0-60 speed | It needs more upgrades so the competition doesn’t take it down |
Volvo XC40 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Equal horsepower in all trims | Battery and range could be increased |
| Volvo’s proprietary Pilot Assist system is included | It’s a very heavy car (up to 4411lbs) |
| Available in 3 trims and more paint finishes than Model 3 | The infotainment system is lacking, as well as the upgrades in cars before 2022 |
| Includes a bit of luxury for a very affordable price | Better trims from 2022 and above models |
Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo XC40: Which One Wins?
Picking a winner between the Tesla Model 3 and Volvo XC40 is difficult, as both have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, considering that the Tesla Model 3 costs $40,240 while the Volvo XC40 sells at a starting price of $36,350, the Volvo XC40 is definitely a winner.
The Volvo XC40 is a high-quality vehicle that builds on the Volvo XC40’s heritage with even more technology to keep up with Tesla’s electric vehicles. So if you’re looking to take the plunge into the world of electric vehicles, the Volvo XC40 makes it easier because it’s affordable and still has a lot to offer.
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