2021 Volvo XC40
| MSRP | $39,110 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $35,699 |
What Should I Pay
1 for sale near you
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2021 Volvo XC40 Review
- Pleasing interior with premium materials
- Clever small-item storage and cargo solutions
- Plenty of standard and available safety features
- Steep learning curve for touchscreen interface
- Cargo area is small for the class
- Minor revisions to feature availability
- All-electric XC40 Recharge expected later in the model year
- Part of the first XC40 generation introduced for 2019
Volvo's XC40 is one of the newest extra-small luxury SUVs on the market. It continues Volvo's tradition of including a generous amount of standard safety technology. What's more, the XC40's small size and entry-level luxury pricing don't mean it's lacking for luxury. Volvo has equipped its little SUV with a large touchscreen infotainment screen, standard leather upholstery and an optional powerful 248-horsepower engine that's paired to all-wheel drive.
Later in the model year Volvo plans to introduce an all-new XC40 Recharge. It's an all-electric version of the XC40. It'll come with dual electric motors that give the Recharge all-wheel drive plus an eye-popping 402 hp. It should have more than 200 miles of range and just as much utility as the regular XC40.
There are a few downsides to the XC40. The infotainment system takes a lot of work to figure out, for instance, and we continue to be frustrated (even if only mildly) by its unnecessary two-step gear selection process. You can read more of our evaluation in our Expert Rating. Other highly regarded rivals to the XC40 include the Audi Q3, the BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Our verdict | |
Volvo's subcompact XC40 SUV inherits the brand's familial good looks and packs a lot of charm into a small package. We're smitten by its comfortable ride, spacious interior and excellent optional audio system. While the front-seat ergonomics and touchscreen interface could be issues for some people, overall we think the XC40 is one of the segment standouts. | |
How does the XC40 drive? | |
The XC40 feels spry overall. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine feels spunky, even if the 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds isn't explosive (we tested the XC40 T5). The transmission is responsive when you need a downshift. Even the engine stop-start system is fairly unobtrusive. And while we don't expect many owners to head off-road, the XC40 can handle light-duty outings thanks to its short overhangs, all-wheel drive and 8.3 inches of ground clearance. As for handling, the XC40 feels a little top-heavy and surprisingly soft when maneuvering at speed. The compliance helps smooth out small bumps, but big bumps and undulations really make the XC40 move around. The Infiniti QX30 and the BMW X1 feel more nimble yet better tied-down. | |
How comfortable is the XC40? | |
The ride is surprisingly comfortable, even with the sporty R-Design trim level. Small bumps are easily soaked up. However, larger bumps and undulations can upset the body. The seats are comfortably firm, but not everybody fits. In particular, you might find the headrests to be angled too far forward. At highway speeds, there's a layer of consistent road noise as well as faintly detectable wind noise. You'll hear the turbo spool up regularly if you don't have any audio playing, and the engine note isn't particularly unpleasant. This cabin is not especially quiet, though it's not far off most others in this class. | |
How’s the interior? | |
Most controls are accessed through the touchscreen. This design approach creates a clean interior design, but the system's maze of menus and laggy responses never fail to frustrate. Another drawback: Tall drivers might not be able to find a comfortable seating position due to limited steering wheel adjustability and the headrest design. Otherwise, the XC40's interior is quite nice. It's easy to get into and out of the relatively roomy cabin, and there's enough legroom in the back for folks of an average height. There's good visibility all around, and the large windows in the rear corners help reduce blind spots. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The XC40 is suitably high-tech. The optional Harman Kardon audio system is an inexpensive step up from the base system and sounds great. You can pump in tunes with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity via the two standard USB ports. (Our test vehicle also had a wireless charging pad and rear USB ports.) The integrated voice controls work well, though you can switch to Siri or Google when your phone is connected. There are lots of advanced driving systems here, and most work well. The exception is forward collision warning, which registered several false positives in our testing and cannot be turned off. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The XC40's cargo area is smaller according to the numbers, but it is nevertheless nicely sized and full of smart storage features. We like the 60/40-split folding rear seats, a pass-through and a foldable tray that doubles as a grocery holder. There's a variety of other storage spaces in the cabin, including a clever little removable trash bin. Felt-lined doors keep items from rattling around. Using your XC40 for kid duty? The anchors are cleanly located under flip doors, but they're buried a little deep for comfortable access. You might have the best chance of fitting a bulky rear-facing seat in this car compared to most others in the class, but it'll still be a tight fit. | |
How economical is the XC40? | |
Our T5 all-wheel-drive R-Design trim is rated at 26 combined mpg (23 city/31 highway), which is slightly better than most AWD competitors, though the base car's mpg rating is more in line with the rest. We achieved 23.2 mpg on our 115-mile drive loop, which is more than a few mpg lower than expected. | |
Is the XC40 a good value? | |
For the price, the XC40 makes a lot of sense if you're looking for a luxury subcompact SUV. It may not have as nice an interior build quality as other Volvos we've seen, but it's still a pleasant place to spend time. Its base price falls well below the priciest competitors, but there are others that come in a little lower. That said, the XC40 feels like a better value at its price point than many others do at theirs. The basic and powertrain warranties are slightly longer than the coverage for some competing SUVs. You also get decent free maintenance and roadside assistance coverage. | |
Wildcard | |
The XC40 isn't as fun to drive as it would like you to believe. Though we appreciate the level of comfort in this tiny SUV, we had difficulty detecting the extra sportiness in the R-Design model we tested. Stiffer suspension? Really? It's not that the XC40 is a bore to drive, but the Infiniti QX30 and the BMW X1 are far more fun to fling around. It has tons of personality, though. Volvo has been on a winning streak since the redesigned XC90 hit the streets, and that Scandinavian elegance has thankfully trickled all the way down to the XC40. The XC40 didn't quite wow us the way the XC60 did, but it is still one of the standouts in the class. | |
Which XC40 does Edmunds recommend?
Since the XC40 comes relatively well equipped from the get-go, we'd stick to the entry-level Momentum trim level. From there, we'd make ours a T5 to get the more powerful engine as well as all-wheel drive and add stand-alone options such as the Harman Kardon audio system and the panoramic sunroof.
Volvo XC40 models
The XC40 is available in three trim levels: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. All trim levels come with a choice of powertrains. Designated as the T4 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Go with the T5 and you get an upgrade to 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The T5 comes with all-wheel drive too. Both engines use an eight-speed automatic transmission. Highlight features include:
Save as much as $3,794 with Edmunds
2021 Volvo XC40 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
T4 Momentum
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A
Edmunds Suggested Price$35,699
1 for sale in 20147
T4 R-Design
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A
Edmunds Suggested Price$39,486
3 for sale in 20147
T5 Momentum
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A
Edmunds Suggested Price$39,504
13 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Volvo XC40.
Trending topics in reviews
- value
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- appearance
- interior
- infotainment system
- technology
- safety
- handling & steering
- climate control
- acceleration
- engine
- comfort
- seats
- lights
Most helpful consumer reviews
3/5 stars, All the right looks, but poor execution.
WhereHaveTheManualsGone?,
T4 Momentum 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Took this car out for an hour test drive, right after looking at Mazda's offerings. This car looks great, and the interior is very minimalist. The little SUV drove very well, and the driving experience and power was fairly well implemented.
Now this car has some drawbacks. First, the one thing no other review mentions, the HVAC system is the loudest thing I've ever witnessed. From the lowest fan setting and up, it sounds like a server rack. The HVAC controls are also all controlled through the screen on the dash, so changing the settings while driving is a pain, if not dangerous. The tire-on-asphalt noise at above 50mph is worse than all other competitors. And the materials they use in the door panel cubby's feels like bargain-bin RV materials, and will easily get stained do to where its located.
After reading the other reviews about electronics issues, and the overall experience during our test drive, $40k or more just does not make sense when Mazda's CX-30 Turbo starts at $30k.
1/5 stars, Defects from day one and budget level of service
J,
T5 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Bought a new 2021 xc40 recently. The car has had numerous dangerous malfunctions including auto start/stop not resuming the engine after a brief stop at a traffic light, and the city safe auto braking going off randomly nearly killing me when traveling at 50mph. Bringing it in for service is a struggle since many Volvo dealers don’t have loaner fleets unlike virtually all other luxury brands. To make matters worse, owner support hotline/Volvo on call doesn’t know ANYTHING about the tech systems in your car. They don’t even know what the system is when you tell them by name using their own lingo. Highly disappointed and heartbroken since I had so much respect for Volvo brand before owning. Now I would advise others to stay away and consider other luxury brands. Volvo is masquerading as a luxury brand but their service has not caught up, at the dealer nor corporate level.
3/5 stars, Luxury car?
2021leaseguy,
T5 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Drives well- nice performance but man you only get about 50% of the “luxury” of competing brands. Nav is crap, voice control never gets it right, click 5 times to turn on AC fan and the strength of the fan varies wildly. At times it will blow you hair back- other times you will click for minutes to get air to show up. Drives great and has some nice features but the little things are adding up. Prob won’t keep it after lease
5/5 stars, Amazing amount of tech for the price
Chad P,
T5 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
This little car has amazing amount of safety technology for the price. Some things do require an extra package but many other cars in this price range don’t even have similar options. The engine has a wow factor also, it will push you into the seat a bit. The upgraded stereo is also worth doing if you can.
2021 Volvo XC40 videos
2019 Volvo XC40 Track Test
NOTE: This video is about the 2019 Volvo XC40, but since the 2021 Volvo XC40 is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Carlos Lago gets behind the wheel of the new 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD R-Design for the first time at the Edmunds test track. What is it? This sharp-looking subcompact luxury SUV packs a lot of charm into a tight package, including a spunky turbo engine, a comfortable ride, and a strong suite of technology features. It's obviously not intended for the high-speed cornering implied by a track, and that's why we treat this testing surface like the curvy road you might have nearby.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite XC40 safety features:
- City Safety with Auto Braking
- Warns the driver and automatically applies the brakes if a front collision is imminent. Can detect vehicles, pedestrians and animals.
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins drifting out of the lane, then applies steering and braking force to guide it back.
- Park Assist Pilot
- Guides the XC40 into an adjacent parking spot with minimal driver assistance.
Volvo XC40 vs. the competition
2021 Volvo XC40
2020 BMW X1
Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1
The BMW X1 is one of our favorites in the class for several reasons. We like the performance from its punchy engine, sporty handling, and generous rear-seat and cargo space. On the downside, the X1's ride can feel too stiff on less-than-perfect roads and its interior, especially when compared to the stylish XC40's, looks drab and uninspired.
Volvo XC40 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
The comprehensively redesigned GLA boasts Mercedes-Benz's advanced MBUX system as well as a smooth ride and some of the most comfortable seats in the class. But unlike the XC40, many advanced safety features are expensive options and the interior can be a bit noisy. The cargo area is a bit on the small side too.
Volvo XC40 vs. Audi Q3
Audi's Q3 packs a lot of tech, interior room and refinement into a small package. We appreciate the quiet cabin and high-quality interior materials and its ability to smooth out most every road. But the Q3's fuel economy lags behind the XC40's and there's a distinct lack of interior storage for personal effects.
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FAQ
Is the Volvo XC40 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 XC40 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.8 out of 10. You probably care about Volvo XC40 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the XC40 gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg to 26 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the XC40 has 20.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volvo XC40. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Volvo XC40?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Volvo XC40:
- Minor revisions to feature availability
- All-electric XC40 Recharge expected later in the model year
- Part of the first XC40 generation introduced for 2019
Is the Volvo XC40 reliable?
To determine whether the Volvo XC40 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the XC40. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the XC40's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Volvo XC40 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Volvo XC40 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 XC40 and gave it a 7.8 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 XC40 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Volvo XC40?
The least-expensive 2021 Volvo XC40 is the 2021 Volvo XC40 T4 Momentum 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $33,700.
Other versions include:
- T5 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $40,950
- T5 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $35,700
- T5 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $41,450
- T4 Momentum 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $33,700
- T4 R-Design 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $38,950
- T4 Inscription 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $39,450
What are the different models of Volvo XC40?
If you're interested in the Volvo XC40, the next question is, which XC40 model is right for you? XC40 variants include T5 R-Design 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), T5 Momentum 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), T5 Inscription 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), and T4 Momentum 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of XC40 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more