What Makes the Volvo XC40 So Special?

You don't have to be an automotive dealer to get excited about the next model year. Cruising by Bedard Brothers Volvo Cars, your Volvo dealer near Stockbridge, you may have noticed things starting to change on our lot as the new model year vehicles begin arriving. There's something about seeing the even shinier and newer vehicles each year that is exciting for anyone who has enjoyed the privilege of driving a car. From cutting-edge features to that new car smell, we all enjoy watching the new model year make its debut.

One vehicle that we're particularly excited about is the upcoming 2025 XC40. We've discussed the highlights of the 2024 Volvo XC40 before, but we can't help falling more and more in love with this small, nimble, and versatile SUV as time goes by. We've been able to dig up a few details, but while we wait for more 2025 XC40 updates, let's take a look at why the XC40 gets our vote in the subcompact SUV category. There is a lot to cover about this subcompact SUV.

What Is the Volvo XC40?

The 2025 Volvo XC40 will be the seventh year of production for the luxury SUV. Though the package may be small, experts around the world have been impressed with everything the XC40 has to offer. From the very start, the XC40 has balanced luxury and value by creating a sharp-looking, distinctive, and innovative vehicle like none other. Ideal for those who are shopping for their first luxury SUV or those who appreciate a zippy everyday vehicle, the XC40 has been on everyone's radar since day one.

Historically speaking, the Volvo XC40 was initially offered in two variations: the T4 and T5. The T5 version sported a more powerful version of the standard 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine and standard all-wheel drive. These engines were later replaced by the new B5 turbocharged mild-hybrid powertrain. Limiting choices is often a risky business for automotive manufacturers, but Volvo knew exactly what it was doing, and it used this opportunity to make the XC40 more powerful than ever. Volvo also added an XC40 Recharge variant that drops the gasoline engine altogether in favor of an all-electric powertrain.

Power and Performance, Volvo-Style

The Volvo XC40 has always been powered by a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine, but it has seen some updates throughout the first generation. The front-wheel drive T4 models were tuned for 187 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the T5 offered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines disappeared with the major changes made for the 2024 model year. Since then, the Volvo XC40 has been a mild-hybrid vehicle. An electric motor joins the turbocharged engine for the B5 powertrain, but it still produces 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, getting the XC40 across town in a jiffy. In fact, the XC40 can make the trip from zero to 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds. 

The term "mild-hybrid" indicates that the electric motor merely boosts the gasoline engine and cannot power the vehicle by itself. The energy created when braking can be stored in the 48V battery, so no special plugs or effort are required to reap the benefits of electric power. The 2024 XC40's mild-hybrid setup results in an impressive fuel economy of 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Stockbridge drivers also appreciate the smooth acceleration and braking this system provides.

There are no anticipated changes to the mild-hybrid arrangement for the 2025 model year, and we would say this is not a problem. However, the all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge is set to be rebranded as the EX40 for the 2025 model year. This could open up space for the EX40 to add Volvo's T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain to the lineup. Volvo is committed to a low-tailpipe emissions future, and the XC40 is currently the only model in its lineup that lacks a plug-in hybrid option. Regardless of power updates, it is certain that the XC40 will remain a peppy go-getter of an SUV. 

High Style, Inside and Out

Visually, the Volvo XC40 has changed since 2019, as have trends across the automotive industry. The relentless pursuit of excellence has led Volvo to continually examine what customers need in order to provide them with vehicles that not only make sense but also help them enjoy the responsibilities of driving.

The 2024 XC40 may appear small, but its interior is spacious, boasting over 39 inches of headroom for both front and rear passengers. While the cargo space expands to up to 57.5 cu.ft. for larger gear, intuitive storage spaces can be found throughout the cabin to keep your daily belongings safe and secure. Those who select Plus or Ultimate trims can fill their cabin with natural light and open views courtesy of the panoramic roof that stretches over both rows of seats, so every passenger gets to enjoy this feature equally.

The interior of each trim is decorated to the last detail. The Core trim, for example, includes an available Charcoal-themed interior with aluminum accents. The Ultimate trim swaddles commuters in durable leather upholstery, along with unexpected but appreciated top-shelf features such as an Orrefors crystal gear selector knob along with driftwood and glossy black details. This is what it means to own a luxury car.

For 2024, Volvo made several optional features standard, which we all hope to see again in 2025. The enhanced LED headlamps that became standard on the Ultimate trim in 2024 have made many drivers happy with their wide, long beams and automatic dimming feature, so it is possible to see upgrades such as this in the new model year.

In particular, making the optional air purification system standard across the lineup would be on many drivers' wish lists. This system is designed to filter out up to 80% of fine particulate matter and can be used independently to essentially clear the air in your car before you get in via the Volvo app. For 2024, Volvo's PM 2.5-calibrated air purification system is standard on the Plus and Ultimate trims, but it's not outside the realm of possibility to see improvement in the Core trim's multifilter air quality system. In fact, we wouldn't be surprised at any upgrades Volvo provides to the 2025 XC40 lineup--upgrades are part of the luxury experience, after all.

A New Year for the Volvo XC40

Waiting is rarely fun, but we have good reason to believe that the 2025 Volvo XC40 will be well worth the wait. Regardless of whether any major changes are made, the 2024 XC40 is a strong contender in the very popular small SUV category. As such, we expect that Volvo will provide drivers with a vehicle that further builds upon the legacy that has been created so far. 

Will the new XC40 be engineered to provide more power? Will the fuel economy improve even further? What standard features will keep us comfortable inside the cabin? Only time will tell, so we encourage you to take the trip from Stockbridge to visit us. Soon, you will be able to experience the 2025 XC40 for yourself.