2024 Volvo XC40

This year, Volvo simplifies the choices, offering just one drivetrain — no complaints in this regard — and adding some previously optional features to the list of standard equipment. In general, we really like the XC40 all the way from its exterior design to its Google-based infotainment system (Apple CarPlay is also included) and appreciate its comprehensive set of safety features.

The subcompact footprint and practical shape of the XC40 also make it easy to park, while still being able to accommodate four adults.

The all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge is reviewed separately.

The front-drive setup didn’t make it into 2024, so every new XC40 has all-wheel drive and a more powerful engine. The base Core trim also gains wireless charging and keyless entry/ignition, plus 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera system, and a cabin air purifier. Ultimate trim receives pixel headlight technology with cornering lights, 20-inch alloy wheels, and powered child locks for the rear doors. These additions used to be optional.

Cloud Blue and Vapour Grey Metallic are new paint choices, while Black Stone and Thunder Grey Metallic are ditched. The exterior’s “Base” theme is replaced by a “Bright” theme. This is just a minor change on what we feel is an agreeable-looking SUV

For a bit of context, the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA are in the same financial ballpark as the XC40, with the Lexus UX a couple of grand or so lower.

Before buying a new XC40 SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. Along with the Lexus UX, the XC40 has some of the strongest resale values in this class.

The 2024 Volvo XC40 features a strong 247-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine capable of transporting the vehicle and its occupants from zero to 60 mph in a swift 6.1 seconds. In less extreme applications, we’ve found the XC40 distinguished by a pleasant effortlessness. It’s comfortable on the highway, easy around town, and almost calming relative to something a bit more high-strung like the BMW X1. It may be the smallest and most affordable Volvo SUV, but the XC40 is a true Volvo, through and through.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and researching the current collection of subcompact luxury SUVs, including the XC40.

For a subcompact SUV, luxury or otherwise, the 2024 XC40 is spacious. We also think the cabin is well thought-out. It’s packed with quality materials, and comes with a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen oriented vertically.

Volvo front seats are renowned for their comfort, and the company doesn’t skimp here. Rear passengers can also be comfortable with 36.1 inches rear legroom. That’s on the low side for the segment, but our 6-foot editors confirmed having plenty of room.

We’ve found the only area that doesn’t compare quite so well with the competition is luggage space behind the rear seats, which is adequate at 16 cubic feet, but smaller than the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

Google built-in
This infotainment operating system includes Google Maps. It can be controlled by voice, activated by saying, “Hey, Google.” Other aspects include over-the-air updates, plus pairs of USB-C ports front and rear. More apps can be added through the Google Play store, including Waze.

Digital driver information display
A lot of manufacturers, especially luxury marques, are fitting 12.3-inch displays where the old dials used to go, contributing to the cabin’s high-tech feel. It’s standard in the XC40.

Pilot Assist
As part of the adaptive cruise control feature, Pilot Assist adds steering corrections to keep the XC40 SUV in its lane. It’s not a hands-free system, but takes some of the fatigue out of long journeys. Pilot Assist/adaptive cruise control are offered as an option in Plus trim, or included as standard in the Ultimate version.

Harman Kardon 13-speaker/600-watt premium sound system
Offered as an upgrade, Harman Kardon is a well-known and well-respected maker of great-sounding audio systems.

Removable/folding load floor
This handy item can cover a small storage area underneath. And when a section is folded up, it forms a couple of grocery bag holders. It all seems a bit mundane, sure, but we’d rather have this than have groceries (or worse, take-out food) sliding all over the cargo area. It comes in at the Plus trim level.

Pixel technology headlights with active bending lights
Newly standard with the Ultimate trim, these headlights have multiple LEDS for optimum illumination without dazzling anyone else. And the active bending lights follow the direction of the steering.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine endows the 2024 XC40 with 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission sends drive to all four wheels.

The presence of an electric motor under the hood makes this drivetrain a mild hybrid, although the most perceptible asset is the smooth engine stop/restart action.

Premium gasoline is required, and the maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds — which is impressive in this sector.

2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
247 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800 rpm
EPA combined fuel economy (2023): 26 mpg (23 city, 30 highway)

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Volvo’s new-vehicle warranty and powertrain coverage is four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is common protection among European luxury vehicles.

Safety Ratings

The XC40 has earned a Top Safety Pick+ accolade from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a maximum 5-Star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).