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2021 Volvo XC40 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
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Volvo XC40 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 30 highway, 25 combined

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Pure luxury in a compact package.

The Volvo XC40 is a five-passenger compact SUV that delivers a pure luxury experience in an easy-to-use package. The well-equipped XC40 boasts a wide variety of standard and available features across its three main trim levels. If you're looking for a luxury-focused compact SUV, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is a perfect choice.

All Volvo XC40 years

What is new for the 2021 Volvo XC40?

  • XC40 trims have been upgraded with Front Seat Heaters, Heated Steering Wheel, 20 Inch Plus Wheels, and Turbo/Supercharged Engine as standard equipment this year.
  • Rear Seat Heaters features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The T5 Momentum trim now comes with Leather Seats, Parking Sensors, and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment.
  • The T4 Momentum trim now comes with Leather Seats, Parking Sensors, and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment.

2021 Volvo XC40 trims

Curious how Volvo XC40 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

T4 Momentum:

T4 R-Design:

T4 Inscription:

  • Includes all features available on the T4 R-Design
  • No significant upgrades found on the T4 Inscription

T5 Momentum:

T5 R-Design:

T5 Inscription:

Volvo XC40 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2021 Volvo XC40

1. Distinctive design

2021 Volvo XC40 Review: Exterior | CarMax

From the bold exterior to the plush and practical interior, the XC40 is pure Volvo. Even with its compact design, it will never blend in across a crowded parking lot. With standard exterior LED lighting, you'll light your way in style, too. The XC40's sharp lines and standard 18-inch wheels deliver an attractive and capable compact crossover.

2. Creative storage

Its diminutive size doesn't mean the XC40 is lacking in practicality. Volvo made use of every inch of interior space with flexible storage solutions. Look for storage tricks like bag hooks on the passenger side of the dashboard plus large door bins and hidden compartments throughout. Whether you are bringing additional people or gear, your XC40 will be ready for whatever adventure you throw at it.

3. Luxurious trims

2021 Volvo XC40 Review: Front seats | CarMax

All 2021 models come with standard leather seating surfaces, even on the base Momentum trim level. Choose the sporty R-Design and you'll find perforated Nappa leather throughout. Take a look at the top Inscription trim for features like genuine driftwood dashboard inlays and even an amazing Orrefors® crystal gearshift knob.

4. Connected tech

2021 Volvo XC40 Review: Dashboard | CarMax

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity mean that you'll get seamless control of integrated entertainment options while on the go. The available wireless charging spot will keep your phone charged on the go, so you can always be connected to friends and family. The XC40 even has the available Volvo On Call communication app, which includes features such as remote start/stop engine, vehicle tracking, a driving journal, and more.

5. City & country ready

2021 Volvo XC40 Review: Trunk | CarMax

The compact XC40 is city-ready with a compact size that will help you sneak into that last parking spot. Its available 360-degree camera system gives you a top-down view of the XC40 and its surroundings. With a maximum 57.5 cu-ft of cargo space and an impressive 8.3 inches of ground clearance, the XC40 is ready for a long weekend at the campsite, too. So, whether for city life or a quick escape from it, the Volvo XC40 is a great option.

Similar vehicles

If you're interested in the 2021 Volvo XC40, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.

Image of Audi Q3

The 2017-2021 Audi Q3 offers a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive is available on the Q3. Equipped with premium features and modern technology, even the base model feels top-of-the-line.

Standard features of the 2017-2021 Audi Q3 base model include:

  • Dual-zone automatic climate control

  • Satellite radio

  • Bluetooth streaming audio for compatible devices

  • Panoramic sunroof

  • Leather seating

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Volvo XC40 features and specs

T4 Momentum 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automated Parking
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Navigation System
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Smart Key
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

187

Torque (ft-lbs)

221

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

14.2

Wheelbase

106.4"

Overall length

174.2"

Width

73.7"

Height

65.3"

Leg room

F 40.9"/R 36.1"

Head room

F 39"/R 39.1"

Front tires

P235/55HR18

Rear tires

P235/55HR18

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

350/3500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2021 Volvo XC40 FAQ

More about the 2021 Volvo XC40

Color options

Exterior colors:

  • Black Stone

  • Crystal White Metallic

  • Denim Blue Metallic

  • Fusion Red Metallic

  • Glacier Silver Metallic

  • Onyx Black Metallic

  • Pebble Grey Metallic

  • Thunder Grey Metallic

Interior details

  • Features 20.7 cu-ft of cargo space (57.5 cu-ft with the second row folded)

  • Nine-inch infotainment touchscreen

  • Apple CarPlay, Android Auto capability

  • Leather seating

  • Crystal-trimmed gear shifter knob (Inscription trim only)

NHTSA Safety Ratings

The 2021 Volvo XC40 (T4 and T5 models) received an overall 5/5 rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Find out more about this rating and how NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program evaluates the crash protection and rollover safety of new vehicles.

Keep in mind that certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Click here to look up a specific vehicle.

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