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Volvo recently introduced an updated version of its most attainable product, the XC40, which now includes a new model range structure and mild-hybrid technology. We spent the most recent December break on board a B5 varaint.

Volvo has embarked upon its electrified future with an aim of going all-electric by 2030. With the introduction of the updated XC40 range, Volvo’s entire local line-up now all features some sort of electrification, whether mild-hybrid, hybrid or fully electric.  We spent a month on board the updated XC40 recently.

Styling

The XC40 has a fresh exterior, with new front and rear bumpers, reshaped headlamps, a selection of new alloy wheel designs and in the case of our press car, a new exterior colour, which is called Fjord Blue. Overall, the updates are relatively minor, but for those familiar with the outgoing model, they are noticeable. In addition to changing the aesthetics, Volvo has added new trim levels to the range, which are now called Essential, Plus and Ultimate, while a so-called ‘Bright’ or ‘Dark’ theme is then optional, with the former featuring chrome trim, and the latter black trim. The XC40 remains an attractive crossover SUV proposition, despite the shape being a few years old now.

volvo xc40 b5 awd ultimate dark (2022) review

 

A word from Volvo

“With local demand for electrified vehicles growing steadily, this move – along with the earlier introduction of the P6 and P8 Recharge derivatives at the top of the XC40 range – brings us neatly in line with Volvo’s global ambition of transforming into a fully electric car company by 2030,” says Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director at Volvo Car SA.

 

Interior and space

The interior of the updated model will be familiar to those who have experienced a pre-facelift XC40, and in terms of ergonomics and its general; layout there are no significant changes. Where users will notice a big change is in the infotainment system, which is now the new Android-based system from the XC60 and XC90 that features Google-based apps and web services. The system works well and integrates both Apple and Android mobile phone functionality. Since the XC40 and its larger siblings were amongst the trailblazers of the current digitised interior trend, the old proverb “…if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” applies, with the inside of the XC40 still managing to look fresh in 2023.

volvo xc40 b5 awd ultimate dark (2022) review

When looking at practicality, the Volvo impresses, with a 452-litre boot that expands to 893 and even 1 328-litres, depending on the seating configuration. We also managed to transport four adults on board the Xc40 in comfort, with the rear head and legroom being reported as impressive by the users. Despite featuring 211mm of ground clearance and an all-wheel drive system, the 21-inch wheels on our press car were less than ideal for an off-road excursion. Other notable figures include a 2 100kg braked towing capacity and a water wading depth of 450mm.

volvo xc40 b5 awd ultimate dark (2022) review

Performance and driving impression

Powering the XC40 is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that also features a 48-volt hybrid system for a combined output of 183kW and 350Nm. The motor is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels. Its kerb weight is just 1 714kg isn’t exactly light, but when looking at the 6.4-second claimed 0-100km/h time, we felt it was plausible, with the B5 feeling sprightly, and quite a bit faster than we had anticipated.

In terms of ride and handling, the large alloy wheels endow the product with a firmer ride quality, but despite this, and the fact that Volvo’s are not renowned for their driver engagement, and as with the straight line shove, the B5 again felt considerably more adept dynamically than we had anticipated, while the general refinement and noise insulation displayed during our time with the product was impressive.

volvo xc40 b5 awd ultimate dark (2022) review

Safety

The XC40 range was crash-tested in 2018 by Euro NCAP and achieved a 5-Star rating with 97% for adult occupant safety, 87% for child occupant safety, 71% for pedestrian safety and 76% for its safety assistance systems.

Fuel consumption

Volvo claims that the B5 will consume petrol at a rate of 7.6 L/100km, however, our month-long test resulted in a figure of 10.1 L/100km, which is reasonable, but when factoring in the car’s kerb weight and aforementioned performance, is not excessive.

volvo xc40 b5 awd ultimate dark (2022) review

Pricing

The XC40, in B5 AWD Ultimate Dark guise, was priced at R862 100 at the time of writing, making it similar to comparable products such as the new BMW X1, the Mercedes-Benz GLA and the recently updated Lexus UX. Included in the price is a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan.

Verdict

The month spent with the XC40 allowed us to become very well acquainted with Volvo’s most affordable locally sold product. The highlights include strong performance, fantastic looks and a well-crafted interior, however, those looking for the downsides will have to note the relatively high price and high fuel consumption.

 Sean NurseWith a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.View News & Reviews

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