The Volvo XC40 arrived for our tests with a reputation to uphold as What Car?‘s reigning Car of the Year. It’s hugely impressive as a tow car, too, so much so that we’ve named it ‘Best Family SUV’.

That’s the term What Car? uses for SUVs of this size, slightly smaller than the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 which also impressed our judges so much this year.

Despite its relatively compact dimensions, the XC40 is still quite heavy with a kerbweight of 1735kg.
That heft makes it a sensible match for a broad range of caravans.

It certainly has no trouble pulling a tourer weighing 85% of its kerbweight, either in terms of stability or speed.

The 30-60mph acceleration test took a brisk 12.1 seconds, and the stopping distance of 11 metres from 30mph is shorter than many cars in this weight class achieved.

There was a slight shimmy from the caravan when slowing from motorway speeds, but we’ve no complaints at all about the Volvo’s performance in the lane-change test. There was absolutely no drama at all even on the fastest attempt at the manoeuvre.

Inside, the Volvo is beautifully put together. There’s more room inside than you might think, with enough space for adults to get comfortable in the back. However, the transmission tunnel will get in the way of a third rear passenger’s feet.

More boot space would have boosted a nonetheless impressive practicality score.

Model pictured: First Edition