Soft, spacious, and comfortable, the 2023 Volvo XC40 has consistently stood as the anthesis of the more sport-oriented entry-level luxe crossovers from BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz. Where they offer the pretense of performance the XC40 stays true to Volvo’s quieter, softer formula.
Offering a high-riding stance and tidy dimensions in a handsome Swedish wrapper, the XC40 is a maneuverable, easy-to-park and practical crossover. Despite its luxe pretensions, it also happens to be the cheapest Volvo one can buy
Exterior:
Exterior design is remarkably attractive. It’s got the shape of an SUV with a more streamline roof and rounded corners. Wheels are pushed out to the corners with short overhangs. It looks like it will be fun to drive before you even get in. Up front is the typical “Thor’s hammer” shaped daytime lights with LED headlamps and turnsignals. Around back the exhaust is hidden up underneath but there are elegant LED tail lamps as well.
Interior:
Slide into the XC40 for a look into the world of Swedish luxury. It’s different from other manufactures and offers a blend of simple design and elegant finishes. Piano black, soft padding and smooth surfaces combine to fill the cabin with a sense of home comfort.
I’m sure you can tell I’m a fan. Volvo uses thin, vertical vents to stream air into the cabin. Next to another vertically designed touch screen for all of the infotainment in the vehicle. Only a few buttons and knobs dawn the interior and I’m OK with that. Even the gear shifter is a comfortable size and works very well.
Engine and Performance:
Under the hood is a 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder with a 48-Volt electric motor producing 264 HP and 390 Nm of torque. Power is routed through an 8-speed automatic and down to the pavement via all-wheel drive. Power delivery is very punchy and fun to drive.
The Volvo XC40 simplifies its engine lineup for 2023. Gone are the old T4 and T5 designations, now replaced by new terms: B4 and B5, signifying the XC40’s new mild-hybrid powertrains. The 48V system adds an electric motor to the XC40’s 2.0-liter turbo engine, which can add assistance while driving and acts instead of a traditional starter motor.
Suspension and handling-wise, the XC40 is decidedly comfort-oriented. It has no driving modes, no eco or sport mode, aside from a “firm steering feel” buried in the car’s infotainment system. The steering can be described more as confident rather than sporty, and on the road, there’s not much in the way of driver engagement. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Drivers in search of a sporty crossover will probably be disappointed here, but a buyer in search of a comfortable cruiser would likely be pleased by the XC40’s creamy ride quality and easy-to-drive nature.
Safety and Tech:
Volvo has always valued its reputation for safe vehicles, and the XC40 holds true to that tradition. The XC40 has a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and has repeatedly earned a Top Safety Pick Plus+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
While NHTSA’s rating holds for 2023, IIHS’ recently tightened guidelines mean the XC40 doesn’t earn the Top Safety Pick+ badge this year. In addition to a robust crash structure, the XC40 has seven airbags, including one for the driver’s knees.
All XC40s come standard with a bevy of driver assistance technology, like lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and oncoming lane collision mitigation—where the XC40 can steer itself away from an impending collision with oncoming traffic.
Verdict:
The XC40 is a small SUV with lots of character for sure. The overall appearance and road manners made me a huge fan. Even in town, you will expect the XC40 to fit in tight spots and it does with no issue. Alleyways are also no match.
There are a lot of SUVs in this genre now and all have their pros and cons, but the Volvo sticks out in my mind because of the simple elegance and usability it provides. With style in spades that matches chic design with luxury comfort and substance. It may not be the most engaging drive in its class, but the XC40 is remarkably smooth and refined, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The XC40’s focus on driver and passenger comfort, and the slick looks, could be enticing to buyers turned off by sportier and firmer-riding designs from competitors.
Price:
Volvo XC40 B5 Boost Hybrid R-Design: ₱3,690,000