If you’re thinking of buying a Volvo V40, it’s not just the fuel economy or reliability that matters — insurance group plays a big role in how much you’ll pay to keep it on the road. Whether you’re a first-time driver or simply want something sensible for commuting, understanding how insurance bands work can help you pick the right model and avoid any nasty surprises.
What are car insurance groups?
In the UK, every car falls into an insurance group from 1 to 50, with Group 1 being the cheapest to insure and Group 50 the most expensive. These groups are set by organisations like Thatcham Research and are used by insurance providers to determine premiums.
Factors that influence the group include:
Engine size and performance
Repair costs and parts pricing
Safety and security equipment
Historical claims data
Volvo V40 insurance groups by model and trim (UK, 2012–2019)
| Model | Engine | Trim | Transmission | Insurance Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D2 (120bhp) | 1.6L Diesel | SE | Manual | 12–15 |
| D2 (120bhp) | 2.0L Diesel | Momentum / R-Design | Manual / Auto | 16–18 |
| D3 (150bhp) | 2.0L Diesel | SE / R-Design / Inscription | Manual / Auto | 20–23 |
| D4 (190bhp) | 2.0L Diesel | R-Design Lux Nav | Manual / Auto | 24–28 |
| T2 (122bhp) | 1.5L / 2.0L Petrol | Momentum / Inscription | Manual / Auto | 18–22 |
| T3 (152bhp) | 1.5L / 2.0L Petrol | R-Design / Inscription | Manual / Auto | 21–24 |
| T4 (190bhp) | 2.0L Petrol | SE Lux | Manual / Auto | 26 |
| T5 (245bhp) | 2.0L Petrol | R-Design Lux | Auto | 28–34 |
Note: Insurance groups can vary slightly depending on the year, specific model details, and optional equipment.
Key insights
Lower insurance groups (12–18): Ideal for drivers seeking affordable premiums. Models like the D2 with SE trim fall into this category.
Mid-range insurance groups (20–24): Offer a balance between performance and insurance costs. T3 and D3 models typically fall here.
Higher insurance groups (26–34): High-performance models like the T5 R-Design Lux are in this range, reflecting their increased power and associated insurance costs.
Which Volvo V40 is cheapest to insure?
If low insurance premiums are your priority, the early D2 1.6 diesel (SE) falls within one of the lowest insurance groups — Group 12–15. These models also offer excellent fuel economy, making them ideal for long-distance commuters or younger drivers seeking an economical vehicle.
Petrol options, such as the T2 Momentum, also offer reasonable insurance costs, particularly for newer drivers who prefer to avoid diesel.
Models to avoid if insurance cost is a concern
Performance-oriented models like the T5 R-Design Lux or the D4 with Polestar tuning jump into the higher groups. While they offer more power and equipment, the increase in insurance cost may outweigh the benefits if you’re on a tight budget.
Final word
The Volvo V40 may not seem like an obvious choice for a “cheap to insure” hatchback at first glance, but with the right engine and trim, it can be surprisingly affordable to run. Just be sure to compare quotes before you buy — and check if any optional extras (like upgraded alloys or infotainment packs) push your model into a higher insurance bracket.
Want to keep your running costs low? Check out our guide to Volvo V40 fuel economy by model for more savings tips.
