Volvo's entry-level offering in India gets a shot in the arm, albeit an incremental one. We tell you what it's like.
Volvo has just launched the XC40 facelift in India at Rs 43.20 lakh (limited period). This mid-lifecycle update has brought in a new mild-hybrid powertrain and updated styling, among other changes. We take it out for a spin and tell you what the Volvo XC40 facelift is like.
Volvo XC40 facelift: exterior changes
Volvo has given the XC40 sharper styling this time around, with more angular headlights that retain the signature ‘Thor’s hammer’ LED Daytime Running Lights, and a new bumper with triangular fog lamp housings that’s finished in gloss black. The rest of the elements remain unchanged up front, so it continues to get a big, gloss black grille with the Volvo logo in chrome and the clamshell bonnet design.
XC40 facelift gets a new front bumper and the headlights are now more angular.
Along the side, the XC40 facelift has gained a new design for the alloy wheels. However, the five-spoke silver-coloured alloys look quite plain in comparison to the pre-facelift car’s dual-tone diamond-cut design. Volvo has also chosen to leave out the dual-tone paint scheme, with the roof now being body coloured. Interestingly though, the XC40 facelift does get black wing mirrors and roof rails.
New design for the 18-inch alloys looks quite plain.
Changes to the rear are very minimal and will take a keen eye to notice them. Gone is the T4 badge from the tailgate and in comes the new B4 badge, signifying its powertrain. The other minor change is that the rear skid plate is now finished in black, in place of the silver on the older model.
Overall, this can be classified as a subtle update instead of a full-blown facelift. While the sharper design keeps it updated with newer rivals, we can’t help but think that the outgoing, sporty R-Design variant looked much better as an overall package.
Volvo XC40 facelift: interior and features
Much like the exterior, the interior of the XC40 only gets minor changes. The cabin has a minimalist design and is made up of high quality materials, like you’d expect from a Volvo. The XC40 facelift gets new, open-pore wood inlay on the dashboard and door cards, which help uplift the ambience and gloss black detailing around the AC vents, touchscreen, and the centre console looks neat. The car we’ve tested came with an all-black interior theme, but buyers can also opt for a beige theme.
9-inch touchscreen is now powered by an Android-based system.
The chunky, leather-wrapped steering wheel is unchanged from the outgoing model, which is no bad thing, but surprisingly, it does miss out on paddle shifters. Meanwhile, the 9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen now uses an Android-based system and gets integrated Google services. The infotainment system is slick in its operation, but it can get confusing and takes some time to figure out.
Unique crystal gear lever looks classy.
Furthermore, the HVAC controls are still located in the touchscreen, and while it is easy to find, it just isn’t as convenient as physical buttons. Volvo has also taken the opportunity to update the graphics of the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and the only other notable change on the inside is the new crystal gear lever.
The front seats are excellent in terms of support and cushioning and offer loads of electric adjustability. The driver’s seat also gets a memory function, but heated and ventilated seats are missing, which would have been nice.
Front seats are comfy and supportive; there's loads of adjustment on offer too.
At the rear, there’s good amount of room on offerand the seats are comfy too, but the backrest is a bit too upright. The all-black theme can also make you feel hemmed in, but the large panoramic sunroof does a great deal to alleviate that. Furthermore, the XC40’s boot gets a flat floor and can easily swallow up luggage for a weekend getaway trip.
Rear seat backrest remains a bit too upright on the XC40.
As for features, the XC40 facelift gets a PM 2.5 air purifier, leather upholstery, a powered tailgate, LED lighting, connected car tech, Apple CarPlay, a 14-speaker, 600W Harman Kardon audio system, wireless charging and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
Being a Volvo, the XC40 facelift gets a wide range of safety equipment including some ADAS features. The equipment list includes 7 airbags, front and rear parking sensors, rear camera, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation support, lane keep assist, blind spot monitor, hill-start assist and hill-descent control. While the XC40’s ADAS features work well, there's only limited places where you can use them.
Volvo XC40 facelift: engine and performance
Perhaps the biggest change on the Volvo XC40 has taken place under the hood. The engine is the same 2.0-litre, four-cylinder T4 turbo-petrol unit that did duty on the outgoing model, but on this facelift it has gained a 48V mild-hybrid system, which does impact the driving experience. At idle, the four-pot motor remains a refined unit, with barely any sound or vibrations filtering into the cabin.
2.0-litre petrol engine has gained 7hp with the mild-hybrid system.
In terms of output, the engine has only gained 7hp (197hp), while the torque remains the same as before at 300Nm. However, this B4 mild-hybrid does feel more responsive than the outgoing T4 version. You can feel the hybrid system assisting while accelerating and it has also helped improve response off the line. The engine pulls cleanly all the way to the redline and is quite linear too in its delivery.
Apart from improving the performance, the mild-hybrid system is also expected to improve the fuel efficiency of the XC40. However, Volvo is yet to reveal an official figure and we're yet to test it on out fuel efficiency cycle.
The mild-hybrid system has improved the engine's response.
The power is transmitted to the front wheels only through an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. While the gearbox is seamless enough in its operation, it isn’t the quickest to respond. However, the responsive engine does help mask some of the box’s shortcomings. There’s a manual mode for the gearbox too, operated via the crystal gear lever, but it doesn’t feel very engaging.
Volvo XC40 facelift: ride and handling
In terms of the ride, the XC40 facelift impresses with its stability at high speeds, but the ride does feel a bit firm at low speeds over broken patches of roads. But it is never uncomfortable as the jolts rarely filter through inside and the cabin is well insulated from the outside world.
The XC40's high speed manners remain impressive.
The XC40 facelift is no BMW X1 when it comes to handling, but it does feel confident in the bends. Body roll is well contained, the steering feels consistent and there’s a good amount of grip on offer too. There are also two modes for the steering, and while they help increase the weight, they don’t add much in terms of feedback.
Volvo XC40 facelift: price and verdict
The Volvo XC40 facelift is available in a single, fully-loaded variant that's priced at Rs 43.20 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom, India). And while it will be hiked to Rs 45.90 lakh (Rs 1.40 lakh more than the outgoing XC40 T4) after the introductory period, its price will be on par with competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 (Rs 44.90 lakh) and the recently introduced Audi Q3 Premium Plus (Rs 44.89 lakh).
Where it lags though is rear seat comfort and its service network isn't as widespread as its German competitors. Beyond that, the Volvo XC40 remains a good looking SUV with safe and predictable road manners and the incremental changes brought by the facelift only add to an already impressive package. Furthermore, the mild-hybrid system makes it even more driveable and will aid efficiency as well.
Thus, in conclusion, if you are on the lookout for a comfortable, well-equipped luxury crossover, this one is definitely worth looking at.
Also see:
2022 Volvo XC40 facelift video review
Volvo XC40
₹ 46,24,050 * on road price (New Delhi)
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FAQs
What are the changes to the 2022 Volvo XC40? ›
Volvo's subcompact XC40 SUV receives minor changes for 2022, starting with the base Momentum trim no longer offering front fog lights. The R-Design and Inscription trims receive standard wireless device charging, but all trims lose standard rear door power child locks as standard equipment.
What are the common problems of Volvo XC40? ›Most Common Problems with the 2021 Volvo XC40
The most prevalent issues are electrical system problems (5). Many of these also highlight powertrain and fuel/propulsion system issues, which record 3 problems each. There are 3 visibility/wiper problems too.
Volvo has trimmed down the XC40's engine range massively. Now, you have a choice of two mild-hybrid petrol engines, two plug-in hybrid powertrains and two pure-electric powertrains.
Does the 2022 Volvo XC40 have a sunroof? ›Volvo XC40 does not have a sunroof.
Is Volvo XC40 worth the money? ›Yes, the Volvo XC40 is a great luxury subcompact SUV . It has a refined interior and comes with plenty of tech and safety features. Passenger space is decent by class standards too, and the powertrains are strong. However, the infotainment system can be clunky and difficult to use.
Where is Volvo XC40 2022 made? ›Volvo describe it as the start of a new era for Volvo Cars and the plant in Ghent, Belgium as the first customer-bound XC40 small SUV is rolls off the production line.
Is Volvo XC40 expensive to maintain? ›A Volvo XC40 will cost about $11,907 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury SUV models by $3,807. There is also a 36.25% chance that a XC40 will require a major repair during that time. This is 3.31% better than similar vehicles in this segment.
Is Volvo XC40 a reliable car? ›We expect the 2022 XC40 will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2019, 2020 and 2021 models. Select the used car model year to see reported issues with those similar past models.
Are XC40 seats comfortable? ›Both of us find the xc40 P8s seats to be very comfy even with the acceleration of the P8. Sometimes when I'm driving the Recharge I like to give a little burst of acceleration to do a bit of a spinal correction. Almost as good as being in the chair at the dentist's with a bit of inversion going on.
How does Volvo XC40 mild-hybrid work? ›How does Volvo Mild Hybrid work? The Volvo Mild Hybrid utilizes an electric battery to assist the gas engine, but it doesn't move the vehicle by itself. It utilizes regenerative braking to recharge, which means that every time you step on the brake, the car will add power to the battery.
What does mild-hybrid mean in Volvo Cars? ›
Mild hybrids use both a combustion engine and an electric motor to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. They do this by using energy stored in a 48-volt battery that is generated by braking. This energy is then used to boost the combustion engine during start-up and take-off.
Do mild hybrids need charging? ›No. Unlike full hybrids which come with plug-in options, you do not have to charge the battery in a mild hybrid. This is mostly because the battery is smaller than a full hybrid. Its regenerative braking is enough to keep it powered.
Is R-Design better than inscription? ›Compare the 2021 Volvo XC60 R-Design vs Inscription Trim. What is the difference? Whereas the R-Design is more sport-oriented, the Inscription is more oriented toward luxury. The front seats gain ventilation, and there is upgraded leather upholstery that gets added.
Is the a new XC40 coming out? ›2022 Volvo XC40 price and release date
The majority of the updated Volvo XC40 range is already on sale, with trim levels including Start, Core, Plus and Ultimate replacing the Momentum, R-Design and Inscription trim levels of the outgoing model.
The driving feel will be different in R-Design since it's equipped with a harder tuned sport suspension. Inscription will drive the same way as the Momentum test car. All other differences are limited to design, so it's down to your personal preference.
Is the Volvo XC40 underpowered? ›The Volvo XC40 has received particular praise for its build quality, refinement, styling and extremely high safety standards. The main criticisms have related to its fairly average driving dynamics and an underpowered entry-level T3 petrol engine.
What is the #1 rated luxury SUV? ›The number one rated luxury SUV of 2022 is the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid 2022. This most recent version embraces the latest and greatest in the auto industry with a powerful hybrid engine that offers a smooth yet powerful ride.
Are Volvo expensive to maintain? ›Are Volvos Expensive to Service? While the Volvo brand is listed higher in cost on a list created by Your Mechanic Inc., Volvos are more affordable to maintain than other luxury brands. Over a ten-year period of ownership, Volvo models cost an average of $100 more to maintain than Audi models.
Is Volvo XC40 made in India? ›Volvo XC40 Recharge electric SUV will be the first luxury electric vehicle to be assembled at its Hosakote plant near Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Who make Volvo engines? ›Until 2014, Volvo Cars used some engines of its own and others from Ford. Now, however, the Volvo Engine Architecture (VEA) set of engines is found in all Volvo vehicles. This family of three- and four-cylinder engines are entirely designed by the Scandinavian company.
Are Volvo engines made in China? ›
The Volvo Engine Architecture (VEA) is a family of straight-three and straight-four automobile petrol and diesel engines produced by Volvo Cars in Skövde, Sweden, since 2013, Zhangjiakou, China since 2016 and Tanjung Malim, Malaysia since 2022 by Proton.
How long do Volvo XC40 last? ›The Volvo XC40 can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles when properly maintained, well looked after and driven conservatively. Based on an annual mileage of 15,000 miles, the XC40 can provide approximately 13 – 17 years of service before breaking down or requiring expensive repairs.
Is Volvo expensive to maintain in India? ›The approximate annual service and maintenance cost for Volvo S60 (Petrol) would be around Rs. 20,738 for 1 year/12 months.
Is Volvo XC40 2022 a good car? ›It's ideal for those who often ferry passengers and want a small yet premium SUV. The entry price is good, and the powertrains diverse too, with both plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions on offer in Australia for 2022.
Is Volvo XC40 fuel efficient? ›The XC40's EPA fuel-economy ratings are a class-competitive 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway for the B4 model and 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the B5.
Is Volvo XC40 made in China? ›The Volvo XC40 is made in Belgium at Volvo Cars manufacturing plant in Ghent and also in China at the Luqiao plant. XC40s for the USA and Europe are built in Ghent whilst the Luqiao plant serves the Chinese market and exports to countries in other continents, including the Americas and Oceania.
Is XC40 big enough? ›The XC40 seats five people. Leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat are standard. There's a good amount of space in both rows, and two average-sized adults can fit comfortably in the rear.
Is XC40 big enough for family of 4? ›The small XC40 can haul a family around, but not a big one. If the family is more than three or four, you should step up to the larger XC60 or three-row XC90. Otherwise, the XC40 easily satisfies and matches up well against other small premium rivals such as the Audi Q3, BMW X2, and Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB.
Is the XC40 big enough for a family? ›The Volvo XC40 is comparable to cars like the Mercedes GLA, BMW X1 and Audi Q3 – they're all posh, relatively small but practical SUVs that make ideal family cars.
What is the difference between hybrid and mild hybrid? ›When compared with mild Hybrids, the main benefit of Toyota's full Hybrid cars is the fact that its two power sources operate entirely independently of each other. Mild Hybrid cars only use their electric motors to support the engine during acceleration and cruising – the electric motor cannot power the car on its own.
Is the Volvo XC40 hybrid self-charging? ›
Like any other Hybrid, Mild Hybrids have an electric motor and battery as well as a combustion engine. The battery is self-charging meaning it is charged by the engine and during braking.
What does mild hybrid mean? ›WHAT IS A MILD HYBRID? A mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) uses a battery-powered electric motor in support of a conventional petrol or diesel engine to improve efficiency and reduce emissions †. Mild hybrids use regenerative braking to charge the battery while driving.
How does Volvo mild hybrid system work? ›Volvo Mild Hybrid System Explained - How well does it work at ... - YouTube
How does mild hybrid work? ›A mild hybrid refers to a vehicle with an internal combustion engine that is also supported by a small electric drive. The electric motor recovers braking energy ("recuperation") and makes it available later as additional drive power to reduce overall fuel consumption.
What is the difference between MHEV and PHEV? ›What's the difference between PHEV and MHEV? A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) has a smaller fuel engine and can be powered exclusively by a large battery pack. A mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) blends a traditional fuel engine and electric power.
What are the disadvantages of a mild hybrid car? ›Disadvantages to a mild-hybrid car:
Cannot be driven on electricity alone. No grants available unlike EVs. Don't offer vast improvements to efficiency in the way 'full' hybrids do.
But what is the expected life span of their batteries? Most hybrid vehicle manufacturers say that, on average, a hybrid battery pack will last from 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
How much is a mild hybrid battery? ›Hybrid Battery Cost FAQ
The cost of a new hybrid car battery tends to range from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the type and size of the battery and the vehicle it's going in, including its year and the model.
XC40 Ultimate
The 19-inch Matt Graphite alloys, panoramic sunroof and suede/microtech seats make this the top of the range trim. Additionally, you also get the highest spec of Volvo's Pilot Assist and a 360-degree parking camera.
However, upon closer inspection, the Inscription seems to offer more practical features such as the power-operated tailgate, unlike the R-Design model. The R-Design does offer more premium finishes and a more sporty suspension system in return.
What does the R mean in Volvo? ›
The Volvo R marque represents the high-performance division of cars produced by Volvo. The R marque refers to an unknown adjective, since Volvo markets R-designated vehicles as being the most performance-oriented trim level.
Is the Volvo XC40 due a facelift? ›Malaysia to get the new Volvo XC40 facelift in 2023; Differences vs 2022 model here. While the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric that was introduced in Malaysia is the pre-facelift model, Volvo Car Malaysia says new 2022 facelift model will be launched within one year.
When can I order 2023 Volvo XC40? ›The 2023 Volvo XC40 release date is slated to be in Fall 2022. This is exciting because this subcompact premium crossover SUV is getting a refresh for the 2023 model year.
When can I order a 2022 Volvo? ›As of September 7, 2021, you can order your 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge here. Select Patrick Volvo Cars as your preferred retailer (Find out why you should choose Patrick Volvo Cars here.)
Which Volvo XC40 has a sunroof? ›Volvo XC40 T5 R Design (Panoramic Sunroof, 360 Camera, Harmon Kardon) 1.5 5dr.
What is Premium Package Volvo XC40? ›The available Premium Package adds dual-zone climate control, navigation, power-folding rear headrests, keyless entry, front parking sensors, and an 8-way power-adjustable passenger seat.
Do all Volvo XC40 have sunroof? ›The sunroof option is available in all models of Volvo XC40.
Is the a new XC40 coming out? ›2022 Volvo XC40 price and release date
The majority of the updated Volvo XC40 range is already on sale, with trim levels including Start, Core, Plus and Ultimate replacing the Momentum, R-Design and Inscription trim levels of the outgoing model.
Malaysia to get the new Volvo XC40 facelift in 2023; Differences vs 2022 model here. While the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric that was introduced in Malaysia is the pre-facelift model, Volvo Car Malaysia says new 2022 facelift model will be launched within one year.
What Colours does the Volvo XC40 come in? ›The 2022 Volvo XC40 is available in Black Stone, Thunder Gray, Crystal White, Pebble Gray, Denim Blue, Onyx Black, Fusion Red, and smooth Glacier Silver.
Is Volvo XC40 4wd? ›
The Volvo XC40 is available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines with either a manual or automatic gearbox, and two- or four-wheel drive.
How long is the wait for a Volvo XC40? ›In most situations, custom ordered vehicles can take about 4-5 months to arrive.
Is Volvo XC40 a reliable car? ›We expect the 2022 XC40 will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2019, 2020 and 2021 models. Select the used car model year to see reported issues with those similar past models.
What does mild hybrid mean Volvo? ›Mild hybrids use both a combustion engine and an electric motor to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. They do this by using energy stored in a 48-volt battery that is generated by braking. This energy is then used to boost the combustion engine during start-up and take-off.
When can I order 2023 Volvo XC40? ›The 2023 Volvo XC40 release date is slated to be in Fall 2022. This is exciting because this subcompact premium crossover SUV is getting a refresh for the 2023 model year.
Does Volvo XC40 have heated steering wheel? ›The steering wheel can be heated in order to increase comfort for the driver when it is cold.
Is Volvo a luxury car brand? ›Yes, Volvo is a luxury vehicle manufacturer. Volvo cars and SUVs are prized for their premium features, interior comfort, and consistently-high safety standards.
Which is better XC40 R-Design or inscription? ›However, upon closer inspection, the Inscription seems to offer more practical features such as the power-operated tailgate, unlike the R-Design model. The R-Design does offer more premium finishes and a more sporty suspension system in return.
Which is the smallest Volvo? ›As the smallest member of the Volvo SUV family, the XC40 is designed for an active, urban lifestyle. Featuring the same benefits of larger Volvo vehicles, the XC40 delivers a high ground clearance along with athletic handling.
Is Volvo XC40 expensive to maintain? ›A Volvo XC40 will cost about $11,907 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury SUV models by $3,807. There is also a 36.25% chance that a XC40 will require a major repair during that time. This is 3.31% better than similar vehicles in this segment.
Are XC40 seats comfortable? ›
Both of us find the xc40 P8s seats to be very comfy even with the acceleration of the P8. Sometimes when I'm driving the Recharge I like to give a little burst of acceleration to do a bit of a spinal correction. Almost as good as being in the chair at the dentist's with a bit of inversion going on.
Is Volvo XC40 big enough? ›It's definitely more spacious than rivals like the Mercedes GLA and the Audi Q3. Even more surprising is the amount of headroom. It's good everywhere, even with the optional panoramic sunroof equipped. Normally, glass rooves steal an inch or so of space from those in the rear – but there's no such issue in the XC40.