2028 Volvo XC40 Gets Grown-Up Looks and Better Tech; EX40 DroppedAutoGuide.comKyle PatrickThu, September 10, 2026 at 5:59 AM UTCAdd us on Google2028 volvo xc40 gets grown up looks and better tech ex40 droppedVolvo today revealed the 2028 Volvo XC40 and its all-electric EX40 sibling. The brand's sub-compact SUV has come in for style and tech upgrade to keep it fighting fit against the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. It will arrive on our shores in early 2027, but only the gas-powered model, as both Canada and the US will pass on the EX40.2028 volvo xc40 gets grown up looks and better tech ex40 droppedVolvo Family ResemblanceFrom a design perspective, it's clear there's a concerted effort to bring the baby Volvo closer in-line with its bigger siblings. While it still has that fun, boxy shape, the 2028 XC40 adopts cleaner surfacing at both ends, giving the SUV an altogether more mature vibe. Particular care has been given to the grille and headlights-the latter of which now feature a simplified version of the Thor's Hammer LED signature-with a clean upper-edge alignment made possible by a thin bevel on the hood. A new grille insert also adopts the diagonal motif of the Volvo badge. Brand spokespeople said this thinner grille, along with the lower air intake, have been optimized for better airflow.New 20-inch, "double-three-spoke" wheel designs provide a sharp update on a traditional Volvo look. The XC40 will also be available with more modest 18- and 19-inch wheels.AdvertisementAdvertisementAround back, there is a similar reduction in complexity, with one crease running across the entire midsection to emphasize the XC40's width. Volvo's designers have updated the traditional glass-hugging taillights with a more linear light signature as well, complete with darkened lenses. The Volvo wordmark is no longer sitting within a dedicated indent, either.2028 volvo xc40 gets grown up looks and better tech ex40 droppedXC40 Upgraded TechThe upgrades inside the XC40 are even more subtle, at least visually. There are some minor trim finish changes around the vents, updated ambient lighting, and buyers have the option of new Cardamom leather (read: warm brown) and Brown Ash wood. Beyond that, it's the same space, which means familiar touches like the built-in trash receptacle, large door pockets, and the (optional) Orrefors crystal shifter.Taking center stage is an upgraded 11.2-inch infotainment screen, running Volvo's latest infotainment setup. It's a vastly improved system (as seen in the EX60), with quicker responses and a logical menu layout. It wouldn't be a new model without some sort of voice assistant, and in this case the XC40 uses Google's Gemini AI system, as in the EX60.Tech changes that aren't immediately noticeable include a new sensor and camera system, bulking up the XC40's safety suite. This includes new features such as a door opening alert and a lane change assist feature in the optional Pilot Assist package. Existing features like automated emergency braking and collision avoidance are also improved, according to Volvo. An available 360-degree camera now includes a 3D "look-around" feature as well.2028 volvo xc40 gets grown up looks and better tech ex40 droppedFamiliar PowertrainThe 2028 XC40 will arrive with just one powertrain, the trusty 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. America will drop the on-again, off-again B4 version of the powerplant and its front-drive setup. That means the US will now mirror Canada's approach: B5 AWD only.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith a mild-hybrid setup, the 2.0-liter makes the same 247 horsepower as today's model, though the torque peak shifts to 266 pound-feet (an increase of 8 lb-ft).2028 volvo xc40 gets grown up looks and better tech ex40 droppedAutoGuide's Take: 2028 Volvo XC40The XC40 is hardly a spring chicken in the small premium SUV space: it debuted way back in 2018. Despite that, it still remains a strong contender thanks to its spacious cabin and general ease of use. These updates might not match the flash of Mercedes' screen-heavy interiors or BMW's driving excitement, but should help the XC40 continue to age gracefully over the next few years. So long as price increases are small, that is.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletterhere.
