As a Volvo XC40 owner, I was happy to find out the Swedes decided to show some love to its compact SUV line. In short, the XC40, EX40 and EC40 have been facelifted. The improvements include better safety equipment, the same infotainment system that sits in the newest XC90 and XC60 models, and an updated look.
I’ll start with the latter. I like it. I always believed Volvo didn’t do a great job with the first facelift. The rounded headlights softened the XC40’s roughness. Now they’re much more in line with the XC90. Volvo also changed the grill’s proportions, making the whole front of the car feel more balanced. As for the back, it’s nice I can finally tell if I’m driving behind a facelifted model or not.
At this point, the infotainment system is nothing new. Volvo nailed a bigger screen on the dash, changed the processor, and added Google Gemini. These are welcome changes, but time will tell if Volvo will manage to iron out the software glitches people on forums and Facebook groups are complaining about.
As for the safety part, Volvo added automatic lane change assist, a better 360-degree camera system, and an alert for oncoming traffic when opening a door (bikers). Pretty on brand.
The only thing I’m disappointed with is the XC40’s engine choice, as Volvo stuck with mild hybrid options. If you want a plug-in hybrid XC40, second-hand is your only option. And you’ll have to settle for the old operating system, the one that can’t display CarPlay in full screen. It’s a missed opportunity. The XC90 has a plug-in version, so does the XC60.
Based on the XC40’s technical sheet, production should start in the middle of November. No info about prices yet. Until Volvo updates its local websites, you can build one here. The new Heather Bronze color looks nice.
If you decide to buy one or the EX40, you might want to wait a few days. Rumor has it Volvo will soon announce the new EX50.
