The Volvo XC40 is one of the few compact crossovers that turns heads. It has large proportions and oversized tires in a small footprint, a beefy look that just escapes cartoonish. With an array of appealing colors and optional two-tone black or white roof, the XC40 makes a statement.

The T5 AWD R-Design model I drove has an engaging 248-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gas engine. I prefer this engine to the base T4’s less powerful 187-horsepower version so if budget allows, bump up to the T5. Both are paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission and offer four to five different drive modes.

The XC40 is a 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick with Volvo Swedish sensibilities, although the infotainment has a learning curve and the robotic voice is jarring. The interior is delicious, with attention to detail in bright and matte finishes. The R-Design has glossy black exterior accents and a black interior with available orange “Lava” carpet. This $100 option brought me continuous delight in the 7 hour 380-mile roundtrip drive to Pennsylvania’s Amish country retrieving vintage Pfalzgraff tableware.

The XC40 is great for smaller households and singles with room for five people and plenty of treasures.