2019 Volvo XC40 vs 2019 Audi Q3

If any brand is experiencing a revival in terms of both form and function, it's Volvo. The Swedish automaker is experiencing a renaissance, delivering new cars that are not only breathtaking to look at inside and out, but that also provide fantastic technology, safety, and performance.

Volvo was once the Safety Brand, but with the advent of advanced safety technology, many other brands have caught up. Volvo has found its niche in high fashion, backed by continually improving safety technology that rivals the best in the world.

This recent trend started with the XC90 SUV and was followed by the V90 wagon. These are world-class vehicles, but they also fetch high prices.

Enter the 2019 Volvo XC40. It scales down much of what makes those high-end models so great, offering it in a (comparatively) more affordable subcompact SUV package. The XC40 offers ingenious cargo solutions, incredibly advanced technology, and even a new way to go about car ownership. Is that enough to make it stand out compared to other subcompact SUVs? Read on to find out.

If you’ve spent any time on our site or you follow the car industry in general, you’ll know that small SUVs and crossovers are kings right now, and it’s easy to see why. Consider vehicles like the Volvo XC40, BMW X1, or Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (if you’re not into the whole brevity thing). While these vehicles might excel at different things, nearly every vehicle in the subcompact luxury SUV market aims for the same balance of comfortable interiors, composed handling, and the latest infotainment and safety technologies.

But these vehicles all typically suffer in the same areas: a lack of cargo and backseat space, and less-than-thrilling performance. While they won’t be as spacious as a larger SUV or even some station wagons, they all have enough space for some weekend bags, groceries, or all the kid’s gear for school or practice.

The all-new Audi Q3 feels larger than before. It also feels like Audi made fewer compromises than it did with the last Q3. As a result, the 2019 Q3 is one of the most compelling entries in the subcompact SUV market.