Currently reading: New look for Volvo XC40 after nine years on sale

Petrol crossover and its electric siblings gain a new face and updated interior tech

Volvo has revealed a facelift for the XC40 and its siblings, introducing updated exteriors, interiors and revised tech, nearly nine years after the model line was introduced.

The mild-hybrid petrol XC40 and EX40 and EC40 EVs have received a “reimagined” front-end design, with everything forward of the A-pillars being new. 

Changes include new front wings, a new bonnet and a new front bumper, introducing a cleaner look to bring the 40 series closer in line with newer models like the EX60 and EX90.

This marks the first time the 40 series has received a significant styling update during its unusually long time on sale. 

Despite being around for almost a decade, the crossovers continue to be vital for the Swedish brand: the XC40 was its second best-selling ICE model in 2025, behind the XC60, while the EX40 and EC40 ranked second and third among its EVs.

The new models also receive revised LED matrix headlights, which incorporate Volvo’s signature ‘Thor’s Hammer’ design.

From the front, the only visual difference between the petrol and electric models is in the front grille, which is blanked off on the EVs.

Updates have also been made to the rear of the XC40 and EX40: new LED lights, a new bumper and a new tailgate. The EC40's rear remains unchanged.

Several new options will also be available, including new 18in, 19in and 20in wheels on the XC40, as well as a selection of new exterior paint colours.

Inside, a larger (11.2in) touchscreen arrives featuring Volvo’s latest infotainment system, as featured in its most recent EVs.

Volvo is adopting a homogenous approach to infotainment across its range, wanting its customers to be able to work the system in each model without having to relearn how anything works.

Back to top

The infotainment incorporates new features such as Google Gemini AI assistance, which has the ability to answer questions, manage messages and plan routes via voice control. Volvo claims occupants can “have a natural conversation” with the in-car assistant.

An optional 360deg 3D camera can also now be configured.

The cars will feature the latest generation of Volvo’s Active Safety System, which includes new software, better ultrasonic sensors, better radars and higher-resolution cameras, plus automatic emergency steering and braking.

The powertrain options for the XC40 are unchanged. Therefore two mild-hybrid petrol options are available in the UK: the B3 with 161bhp and the B4 with 194bhp.

Both variants are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, with front-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

At launch, two powertrains will be available for the EX40 and EC40 EVs in the UK. The 248bhp, rear-wheel-drive P5 Long Range has a combined WLTP range of 323 miles, while the  dual-motor P8 AWD makes 402bhp and can manage 300 miles on a single charge.

Autocar understands that while the XC40 has previously been available as a plug-in hybrid, there are no current plans to reintroduce a PHEV powertrain.

No indication of pricing has been given ahead of orders opening later this year, but Autocar has been told the positioning of the 40 series in the Volvo range will remain the same, so expect the petrol car to open at around £33k and for the EV to add a circa-£10k premium.

Join our WhatsApp community and be the first to read about the latest news and reviews wowing the car world. Our community is the best, easiest and most direct place to tap into the minds of Autocar, and if you join you’ll also be treated to unique WhatsApp content. You can leave at any time after joining - check our full privacy policy here.