Preview: Small Volvo XC40, EX40 Get Big Tech Upgrades + Video

Volvo’s XC40 and EX40 subcompact crossovers have been updated with refreshed style, a larger screen, improved safety technology, and a new artificial intelligence (AI) assistant.

While the XC40 first debuted in 2017, it has aged remarkably well thanks to its clean, Scandinavian style, and the tweaks to its exterior help it look more refined and modern. As the second refresh since its debut, the new look brings updated lighting, with a modernized take on Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” light signature.

The grille, front bumper, and hood have also been tweaked for a cleaner look. The XC40 also gets new rear lights, a new tailgate, and a redesigned rear bumper, along with new 18-, 19-, and 20-inch wheel options.

The XC40 is a gas-powered mild hybrid; the EX40 is a fully electric version (formerly called the XC40 Recharge) with at least 418 km of range. The EC40 is a sportback version of the EX40 with a sleeker silhouette.

The upgrades continue inside with new materials and finishes, along with a larger tablet-style touchscreen measuring 11.2 inches, which Volvo says is faster and crisper thanks to an updated control module with more computing power, which also benefits the safety systems. The Swedish brand claims the updated infotainment system is more seamless to use and requires fewer taps to access key functions.

The bigger news is that the XC40 and EX40 now come equipped with Google’s Gemini AI assistant, which allows drivers to search, operate some vehicle functions, and more by using natural, conversational voice commands. The same system was first introduced in the all-new (and all-electric) Volvo EX60.

Occupants can ask specific questions including, “What’s the weather going to be like at 4 p.m. today?” or give it a command like, “Find a place to eat breakfast that’s highly rated and not too far from here.” The voice assistant also works with various vehicle functions, so an occupant can say, “It’s too hot in here,” and it will adjust the climate control, or even ask how to operate certain vehicle functions, instead of having to flip through the user manual. Even commands like “tune to a pop music radio channel” get accurate results.

The XC40, EX40, and EC40 also get enhanced safety capabilities enabled by new sensors and cameras that help the system better understand its surroundings. A safe exit alert has been added to warn drivers or passengers of oncoming cyclists or other vehicles; the optional adaptive cruise control system now includes lane-change assist and has been tweaked to operate more smoothly; and the optional surround-view camera system has been upgraded with a 3D view to make low-speed manoeuvres easier and safer.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency steering and braking, as well as other collision-mitigation features. Over-the-air updates ensure the system is always up to date.

Canadian pricing and availability for the refreshed 2027 Volvo XC40, EX40, and EC40 will be announced later.