In a world where most SUVs tend to look alike, the Volvo XC40 dares to stand out from the crowd. Built to haul a small family around, this subcompact luxury crossover is unique with its fresh and upright looks. Although it is Volvo’s smallest offering in the SUV segment, the XC40 comes loaded with lots of advanced driver assistance features and a premium cabin. Compared to other small premium SUVs such as the BMW X2, Mercedes-Benz GLB, and Audi Q3, the XC40 holds its own and offers a little extra. We’ve come to expect a focus on safety from Volvo, and the XC40 does not disappoint, continually impressing on IIHS and NHTSA crash tests. Blending excellent road manners, comfort, practicality, and competitive pricing, this SUV is one of the most appealing options on the market.
Refreshingly Stylish
One thing the Volvo XC40 has going for it is the trendy Scandinavian looks. Unlike other SUVs in its class, the XC40 is not a miniature version of larger models from its manufacturer. Of course, it holds on to Volvo’s overall design language. Elements such as the LED rear lights and Thor’s Hammer headlight design can be found in other SUVs from Volvo, but that’s where the similarities end.
The XC40’s proportions and detailing are distinct, and it has a more youthful feel around it compared to the XC60 and XC90. This youthful interpretation affords the SUV a lot of showroom attraction. Measuring 65.3 inches in height, 174 inches in length, and 73.7 inches wide, the general outlook is a muscular and bulky machine with carefully-crafted side panels. While it is not as long as the BMW X1, it is taller and wider than the German rival.
Minimalist Cabin
Inside, the XC40 adopts a clean and spacious cabin that is as practical as Volvos come. The cabin is remarkably uncluttered, and the dashboard would not look out of place in more expensive models. On the dashboard, the 9.0-inch portrait-styled infotainment screen and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel are borrowed from Volvo’s pricier SUVs.
Due to the roomy interior, passengers would find it easy to get in and out of the SUV, and there is enough space and legroom for rear passengers. There are plenty of clever touches in the cabin, such as a removable bin between the front seats, a folding hook in the glove box, and thoughtful carpeted door bins. The foldable tray can also be used to store groceries and 60/40-split folding rear seats also caught our attention.
Punchy Performance
The Volvo XC40 is motivated by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine comes in two versions; the T4 and the T5. The T4, which spits up 184 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, is front-wheel-drive only. On the other hand, the more powerful T5 producing 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, comes with AWD. As a result, the T5 offers a more robust driving experience and can do 0-60 mph in a decent 6.2 seconds while clearing the quarter-mile in 14.8 seconds.
While it is not built for off-road driving, the Volvo XC40 can manage light-duty trips thanks to its 8.3 inches of ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and short overhangs. We rarely see a subcompact luxury SUV with great towing prowess, but the XC40 can haul 3,500 lbs.
Volvo’s Safety Legacy
Over the years, we’ve come to associate Volvo cars with safety, and the XC40 continues that legacy. For 2022, the SUV earns a stellar five-star overall safety rating from the IIHS. The ratings from NHTSA are similar as it bags a Top Safety Pick + award, where it performed excellently in almost all the crash tests.
The XC40 is fitted with many standard safety features, including curtain airbags, a driver’s airbag, lane-keeping assist, hill descent control, and road sign information. Moving up to higher-end trims, the SUV gets front parking sensors and LED front fog lamps. Other options include the Pilot Assist system and a 360-degree camera.
Preferred Trim and Pricing
Volvo offers the XC40 in three trims with two engine options (T4 and T5) for each trim. The base trim – T4 Momentum – starts at $36,195 and comes with a list of standard safety features, a luxurious interior, and more. Moving up the ladder, the Inscription models get wireless smartphone charging and more safety features at $41,945. Finally, at the top, we get the R-Design for $42,445, with a specially designed grille, tailored steering wheel, and upscale interior finishings.
Our pick of the bunch will be the R-Design with a T5 engine with AWD, a panoramic roof, navigation, and a robust 248-hp engine. Regardless of which trim you go for, the Volvo XC40 offers excellent value for its price compared to the competition.
