2021 Volvo XC40

History/Overview

Volvo introduced the XC40 subcompact crossover in 2019 and carried it forward unchanged into 2020.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2021, the XC40 gets standard adaptive cruise control. Volvo has also added the all-electric Recharge variant.

Available Trims

Volvo offers the XC40 in Momentum, R-Design, Inscription and Recharge trims. Momentum starts in T4 guise powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which adds power in optional T5 form. R-Design and Inscription are both standard in T5 form. XC40 Recharge uses a battery and electric motors to become the most power model in the range. All wheel drive is standard, and is driven by an eight-speed transmission in all but the Recharge, which uses a single-speed transmission.

Standard Features

XC40’s Momentum trim comes standard with adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, a power tailgate, bright roof rails, gloss black grille, LED headlights, fog lights, and 18-inch wheels.

Inside, there’s a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, leather steering wheel and shifter trim, road sign information, satellite radio, smartphone integration, a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, rear park assist, automatic climate control, heated front seats, power driver’s seat, and power lumbar.

Standard safety features include forward collision detection and mitigation, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitor, cross traffic alert, and rear collision mitigation support.

R-Design trim adds dual-zone A/C, sport suspension, passive keyless entry, Nubuck leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, power-folding rear headrests, a power front passenger seat, gloss black roof rails, navigation, front park assist, front-seat cushion extensions, and 19-inch wheels.

Inscription trim brings driftwood dash trim, a unique grille treatment, a crystal shift lever, and 18-inch wheels. Recharge models are based on this package.

Key Options

Momentum, R-Design, Inscription and Recharge options include a climate package (heated wipers, heated steering wheel and heated rear seats), and the advanced package of headlight washers, wireless smartphone charging, 360-degree camera views, and pilot assist.

Momentum also offers a premium package that adds a power front passenger seat, garage door remote, passive keyless entry, front park assist, power-folding rear headrests, and navigation.

Fuel Economy

Volvo’s fuel consumption estimates for the XC40 are 10.7/7.6 L/100 km (city/highway) for the T4 powertrain, and 10.7/7.7 in T5 form. The Recharge’s energy consumption figures are 2.8/3.3 Le/100 km.

Competition

The Volvo XC40 competes with the BMW X1 and X2, the Audi Q3, and Mercedes-Benz’s GLC. Lexus makes the UX, Cadillac brings the XT4, and GM’s other upscale brand, Buick, makes the Encore GX.