Volvo XC40: OVERVIEW
The even more attractive 2022 XC40 is a trendy and young SUV in the already fashionable series of Volvo SUVs. The entry-level model has a T4 badged 184 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the most spirited model is the T5, which has 248 hp and comes standard with all-wheel drive.
The XC40 also features a tonne of technology, including optional driver assistance features taken from more expensive Volvo vehicles, such as the Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving mode. The XC40 isn't all flair, though. Its cargo room is generously spacious, and its cabin is intelligently constructed with clever storage options.
Additionally, the Volvo's higher seating position will appeal to SUV aficionados when compared to German rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-class. Volvo also offers the XC40 Recharge, which we separately assess, if you're seeking an electrified SUV with comparable features.
What Has Changed For 2022?
The smallest SUV made by Volvo has a few changes for 2022. A power-operated liftgate, front fog lamps, and rear child locks are no longer included as standard features in the XC40. However, the premium R-Design and mid-range Inscription models add wireless smartphone charging, and purchasers who wish it can add the power liftgate as a stand-alone option to any model for an additional cost.
Volvo XC40: Interior And Comfort
Both Charcoal interior/leather upholstery and Charcoal/Blond interior with Blond leather upholstery are available for the XC40's cabin. What else? Volvo features a 13-speaker, 600-watt Harman Kardon sound system, a handmade crystal gear lever, a 12-inch driver display, a nine-inch Android-based touchscreen infotainment system, powered front seats with driver seat memory, a wireless charging pad, and a wireless charging pad.
Volvo XC40: Connectivity
Volvo's Sensus Connect infotainment system is projected brightly on a 9.0-inch touchscreen from its prominent and somewhat canted position in the center of the XC40's dashboard. The majority of the cabin's controls are located on this screen, however, there are just a few extraneous physical buttons.
The system's usability is inconsistent: The main menus are logically organized, but the submenus have tiny touchscreen icons that are difficult to utilize while moving about. We also noticed a noticeable startup slowness in the system.
Volvo XC40: Engine And Performance
Every XC40 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that may provide 184 or 248 horsepower (called T4 and T5, respectively). Our Momentum test vehicle accelerated to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds thanks to the more potent T5, which only works with all-wheel drive.Â
The eight-speed automatic transmission manages gear changes quickly and smoothly without adding any harshness to the interior. The engine's harsh noise when the throttle is pressed heavily is our only issue. The powerplant is smooth and quiet when cruising. The XC40 has a strong 3500-pound towing capacity, which is unusual for small luxury crossovers.
Volvo XC40: Pricing
A tiny luxury SUV with a starting MSRP as low as $34,100 is the Volvo XC40. Starting at $39,350 for the R-Design, the Inscription raises it to $39,850. Any of the three can be upgraded to the T5 powertrain, which has an improved turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, for an additional 2,000 dollars.
Which One To Purchase?
We would choose the T5 R-Design variant due to its more potent 248-hp engine as well as the all-wheel drive's seasonal security. The T5 R-Design includes navigation, a panoramic roof, and a sporty exterior as standard features.
We would also include the Advanced package, which includes adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous mode, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area, in addition to the Climate package, which adds heating for the headlamp washers, steering wheel, and back seats.