The entire 40 Series from Volvo Car has been refreshed for 2027 and beyond.
The Volvo 40 Series of compact crossovers have been around for nearly 10 years, with the first XC40 petrol model appearing in 2017. Over the years, the XC40 expanded to include mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants before finally being offered as pure battery electric vehicle. Then came the more stylish coupé variant which was the EV-exclusive C40.
All variants have been upgraded over the years and recently the naming convention was streamlined: ‘XC40’ for the hybrid version, ‘EX40’ for the electric version and ‘EC40’ for the coupé. As we approach 2027, Volvo Car has released a refreshed range. Here is what’s new.
Exterior Design
The entire 40 Series has been given an extensive makeover. Common to all variants is the new Thor’s Hammer Matrix LED headlight. The entire shape of the headlight housing has been changed, which comes hand-in-hand with some new sheet metal for the bonnet and new plastic moldings for the front bumper and grille.
The headlight now extends all the way to the grille piece and the headlight cluster itself has been refined with a new light signature that disconnects the ‘T’ of the daytime running light. It’s a fresh look that doesn’t quite mirror the latest design language of Volvo Cars’ flagship vehicles likes the ES90 and EX90. Those vehicles have segmented daytime running lights that ‘extend’ into the front bumper.
The 40 Series is going for its own unique look, which is a little cleaner, but perhaps not quite as sophisticated. We do see some similarity between the front grille design of the updated XC40 and the latest version of the XC90. They both feature diagonal slats, though the slats on the EX40 only go in one direction.
The taillights mirror this new light look, at least for the EX40 and XC40. Gone are the intricate internals of the taillight clusters for these models. Instead, we get simple and clean graphics bordered in black with barely a curve in sight. The rear bumpers and tailgate panel have been cleaned up as well to reflect the new angular design philosophy.
The EC40, which debuted in 2022, does not get changes to the rear end. Rim options have been updated too with sizes ranging from 18-20″.
Interior Design
The interior gets a larger 11.2″ infotainment screen, which protrudes out of the housing and overlaps slightly with the air cond vents on each flank. It’s a similar update to what the XC90 got with its latest revision.
The same row of physical controls are still present under the screen. The infotainment unit features more Google integration, this time extending to the Gemini AI assistant.
Besides that the wireless charger has been upgraded and there are new upholstery and decor options. A new Arianne Cardamom leather + Brown Ash wood combination is available on the XC40 for the first time. Ambient lighting has also been updated.
Enhanced Safety
Volvo Car says the ADAS systems are enhanced with new software and sensors. The radar, camera, and ultrasonic modules have all been upgraded to allow better detection of surrounding conditions. Additionally, Door Opening Alert has been added, while Pilot Assist has been updated with a smoother lane change assist and the 360-degree camera gets a new 3D view.
