smart #1 vs Volvo XC40
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The smart #1 starts from $54,900 before on-road costs, while the Volvo XC40 opens at $52,900. That makes the Volvo XC40 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $60,390 and $58,190 respectively.
The smart #1 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Volvo XC40, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The smart #1 features a 12.8-inch touchscreen paired with a 9.2-inch digital dash, while the Volvo XC40 gets a 9-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The smart #1 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats, power tailgate, Beats audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Volvo XC40. The Volvo XC40 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the smart #1 gets leather upholstery while the Volvo XC40 offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The smart #1 uses a Electric producing 200kW and 343Nm of torque, sent through a single-speed automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.7 seconds.
The Volvo XC40 responds with a Petrol making 145kW and 300Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels.
The smart #1 has the clear power advantage at 200kW vs 145kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The smart #1 measures 4,270mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 170mm shorter than the Volvo XC40 at 4,440mm (2,702mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the smart #1 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 203L in the smart #1 and 452L in the Volvo XC40, giving the Volvo XC40 a 249L advantage.
For towing, the Volvo XC40 leads with a 1,800kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 200kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m diameter
Average
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 150,000km (smart #1) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Volvo XC40). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the smart #1 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer smart's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Volvo XC40 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Volvo's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Volvo XC40 takes 3 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Volvo XC40 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, smart #1 and Volvo XC40?
The Volvo XC40 is the cheapest at $52,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the smart #1 by $2,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Volvo XC40 uses the least fuel at 7.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — smart #1 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Volvo XC40 has the largest boot at 452L.
Which can tow the most?
The Volvo XC40 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,800kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The smart #1 makes the most power at 200kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
