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2023 Volvo XC40 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Volvo XC40 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Well-crafted interior
  • Smart storage solutions
  • Brand’s traditional focus on safety

Cons

  • Below-average cargo capacity
  • Infotainment system takes time to get used to

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 30 highway, 25 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Price
Year

The 2023 Volvo XC40 is a charming and smart luxury alternative

The 2023 Volvo XC40 stands out from other subcompact luxury SUVs with its unique Scandinavian flair. The exterior is beautifully styled, with pleasing proportions, sharp detailing, and an athletic stance. The interior brings a kind of simple elegance that is missing on most other vehicles, along with clever storage solutions and premium materials.

The 2023 model year brought a host of changes, though not particularly significant to overall impressions of the XC40. Trim levels have been revamped, a new Google-based infotainment system debuts, and a mild hybrid system is included with all engines, increasing EPA-estimated fuel economy by a single mpg.

The XC40 is a refreshing alternative to the more typical luxury SUVs in the class that tend to exude a certain sameness between them. That said, the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLB are both excellent choices that offer potent performance and surprising practicality.

All Volvo XC40 years

What is new for the 2023 Volvo XC40?

  • The XC40 is available in a variety of new trims, including the B4 Core, B4 FWD Plus Bright Theme, B4 Plus Dark Theme, B4 Ultimate Bright Theme, B4 Ultimate Dark Theme, B5 Core, B5 Plus Bright Theme, B5 Plus Dark Theme, B5 Ultimate Bright Theme, and B5 Ultimate Dark Theme.
  • The T4 Inscription, T4 Momentum, T4 R-Design, T5 Inscription, T5 Momentum, and T5 R-Design trims have been discontinued for 2023.
  • XC40 trims have been upgraded with Cloth Seats, Automated Cruise Control, Rear Sunshade, Leatherette Seats, Leatherette & Cloth, Power Hatch/Deck Lid, and Harman Kardon Sound as standard equipment this year.
  • Remote Start and Running Boards features are now available as options on select trims.

2023 Volvo XC40 trims

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

B4 FWD Plus Bright Theme:

  • 194-hp, 221-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Cruise Control
  • Leather Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Rear View Camera
  • Parking Sensors
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning

B5 Core:

  • Includes all features available on the B4 FWD Plus Bright Theme
  • 247-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Rear Defroster
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Android Auto
  • Auxiliary Audio Input

B5 Plus Dark Theme:

Volvo XC40 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2023 Volvo XC40

What We Like

Well-crafted interior: The XC40’s interior is a model of clean Scandinavian design, with a simple dashboard layout and minimal embellishment (except for the available Orrefors crystal shift knob, that is). Interior materials are high-quality and are as pleasant to the touch as they are to the eyes. Add in some of the most comfortable seats in any vehicle, and you have a winning formula.

Smart storage solutions: In addition to the typical bins and pockets found in any vehicle, the XC40 goes above and beyond with clever additions. A small removable bin in the center console can serve as a trash receptacle and the door pockets are positively huge. There’s even a hinged hook in the glovebox lid to hold your takeout bag. The cargo space also features a configurable multi-function floor that works as a divider with bag hooks.

Focus on driver aids: Volvo’s commitment to safety is legendary and the XC40 upholds that promise with a comprehensive list of features. You get all of the expected items: automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, and blind-spot warning, but the difference is, you get all of these as standard equipment. Many rivals require you to step up to higher trim levels or add them as options.

What Needs Improvement

Small cargo capacity: The XC40’s cargo capacity is smaller than its rivals, measuring only 20.4 cubic feet. The BMW X1 can hold as much as 25.7 cubic feet and the Mercedes-Benz GLB is rated at 22 cubic feet. The XC40 has some great cargo organizers but can’t accommodate bulky objects as well.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Volvo XC40 features and specs

B4 Core 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • 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
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

194

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

2023 Volvo XC40 FAQ

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