2028 Volvo XC40MotorTrendAlex LeanseThu, September 10, 2026 at 1:36 PM UTCAdd us on Google2028 Volvo XC40VolvoStylish and chicUpgraded AI-enabled infotainmentVolvo's safety reputationMuch the same as it was beforeFuel economy isn't greatSlightly jittery ridePhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: VolvoPhoto credit: VolvoAfter skipping 2027, the XC40 returns refreshed for 2028. Volvo's smallest SUV went on sale for 2019, and now receives design and feature updates to renew its competitive standing. It's offered with one engine only; the all-electric EX40 is no longer available. Luxury subcompact SUV rivals include the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Lexus UX.What's NewBasicsImproved exterior sensors and active safety featuresExteriorRevised front- and rear-end stylingHeadlights and taillights in black lenses; headlights gain matrix LED technologyNew 18, 19, and 20-inch wheelsHeather Bronze paint introducedInterior11.2-inch infotainment touchscreen becomes standardImproved ambient lighting on dashboard and doorsWireless charging pad relocated for better accessCardamom light brown leather upholstery now availableWhat We ThinkAfter a decade on sale, most vehicles get replaced by a new generation. But the XC40 gets refreshed instead, with new design, tech, and safety features for 2028. Do Volvo's efforts go far enough to revitalize its aging small SUV?AdvertisementAdvertisementStyling updates made this year are subtle, but the XC40 didn't need much change—it's still suave after all these years. Even if it looks much the same, new matrix LED headlights should add practical benefit. Likewise, the cabin is almost identical, although upgraded ambient lighting and a larger touchscreen with an AI assistant modernize the space. The interior isn't only spacious and premium, but user-friendly; favorite features like a built-in trash can and bag hook remain.With unchanged chassis and powertrain hardware, the 2028 XC40 should drive much the same as before: just fine. We've known the XC40 to ride a bit stiff and have lifeless steering. Acceleration is peppy enough, but fuel economy isn't excellent, even with mild-hybrid assistance.For drivers who favor style and substance over exciting dynamics, the updated XC40 should remain a nice choice. Layer on Volvo's safety reputation—with new driver-assist features added this year—and this old SUV retains appeal.Top-Ranked Competitors:Audi Q3BMW X1Lexus UXAcura ADXMotorTrend TestedEvery 2028 XC40 will be powered by a mild-hybrid turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine, which Volvo designates as B5. The B5 engine makes 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with AWD becoming standard again for 2028; it was optional in 2026. Expect 0-60 mph acceleration of slightly more than 6.0 seconds.AdvertisementAdvertisementA less-powerful version of that turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 badged B4 was previously offered, but isn't available for 2028.MPGs and RangeFuel economy for the 2028 XC40 B5 should come in at about 23/30 mpg city/highway. Driving range on a full tank of gas is slightly less than 370 miles.All-Electric XC40?Volvo previously produced an all-electric version of the XC40. That vehicle originally launched as the XC40 Recharge, then was rebadged to EX40. It was zippy and fun to drive, but driving range and charging performance weren't great. Volvo no longer sells an XC40 EV in the United States; a potential all-new EX50 SUV could take its place in the lineup.Safety and Driver-Assist FeaturesIn its most recent crash safety testing for 2026, the XC40 earned a NHTSA five-star overall rating, the highest possible score. For 2028, Volvo adds new ultrasonic and radar sensors to improve the XC40's crash detection and avoidance potential.AdvertisementAdvertisementStandard FeaturesEvery XC40 comes equipped with front and rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.Available FeaturesThe optional Pilot Assist suite adds additional driver aids, such as semi-automatic lane changes, emergency evasive steering assist, and side cross-traffic alert for passing cars and bicycles.Cargo Space and Interior RoomEven if its on-paper interior measurements are similar to rival SUVs, the XC40 feels airy and roomy inside. Big door pockets and clever storage spaces come in handy.TechnologyInfotainmentAdvertisementAdvertisementFor 2028, the XC40 gains a new 11.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, an upgrade over the previous 9.0-inch screen. It's equipped with Volvo's latest Google-based user interface, and has the Gemini AI voice assistant built in. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included. All models get a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, but it has very little reconfigurability. There's a wireless charging pad in front, and USB-C ports in both rows of seats.Sound SystemAbove the base eight-speaker audio system, a 13-speaker Harman Kardon premium system can be equipped.Available UpgradesFor 2028, the optional 360-degree camera system is upgraded with a 3D view that can be swiped around on the touchscreen.ValuePricing for the 2028 Volvo XC40 is expected to start at about $45,000, which is comparable to other AWD-equipped luxury subcompact SUVs. Then again, many of those vehicles are fundamentally newer than the XC40. But this year's updates keep Volvo's entry level vehicle appealing, along with returning standard features including a wireless charging pad, power-operated tailgate, power-adjustable driver's seat, and power-folding side mirrors.
