2021
Volvo XC40

Starts at:
$35,700
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New 2021 Volvo XC40
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Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • T4 FWD Momentum
    Starts at
    $33,700
    23 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • T5 AWD Momentum
    Starts at
    $35,700
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • T4 FWD R-Design
    Starts at
    $38,950
    23 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • T4 FWD Inscription
    Starts at
    $39,450
    23 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • T5 AWD R-Design
    Starts at
    $40,950
    208 mi.
    Range
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • T5 AWD Inscription
    Starts at
    $41,450
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40 2021 Volvo XC40

Notable features

Five-seat subcompact luxury SUV
Front- or all-wheel drive
Choice of two turbo four-cylinder engines
Eight-speed automatic standard
Digital instrument panel standard
Fully electric Recharge version available

The good & the bad

The good

T5 model’s performance
Quiet interior
Firm but smooth ride
Precise handling
Storage space

The bad

Engine noise
Low, short backseat cushion
Backseat doesn’t recline
Rear visibility
Multimedia system’s lack of physical controls
See all specifications

Expert 2021 Volvo XC40 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com Editors
Full article
our expert's take

What Is the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The five-seat XC40 is Volvo’s smallest SUV and one of the Swedish automaker’s most impressive efforts. Stylish and nimble, the XC40 is offered with front- or all-wheel drive and a choice of two turbocharged engines: a 187-horsepower, turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 248-hp, turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Both engines work with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Competitors include the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. 

What’s New on the 2021 Volvo XC40?

New standard features include full-LED adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, LED foglights and two rear USB-C ports. There’s also a new fully electric Recharge version of the SUV.  

What Features in the 2021 Volvo XC40 Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Power-folding side mirrors
  • Leather upholstery
  • Power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory feature
  • Digital instrument panel
  • 9-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Blind spot warning
  • Rear automatic braking

Available features include:

  • Panoramic moonroof
  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Navigation
  • Harman Kardon premium stereo
  • Wireless device charging
  • 360-degree camera system
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-centering steering assist

Should I Buy the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The XC40 is an impressive entry in the subcompact luxury SUV class. The T5’s engine is strong, and the SUV handles well. The interior is quiet and offers good storage space. However, rear visibility is limited, and the rear-seat cushion is low and not that long. We also wish the multimedia system had more physical controls.

2021 Volvo XC40 review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The five-seat XC40 is Volvo’s smallest SUV and one of the Swedish automaker’s most impressive efforts. Stylish and nimble, the XC40 is offered with front- or all-wheel drive and a choice of two turbocharged engines: a 187-horsepower, turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 248-hp, turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Both engines work with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Competitors include the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. 

What’s New on the 2021 Volvo XC40?

New standard features include full-LED adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, LED foglights and two rear USB-C ports. There’s also a new fully electric Recharge version of the SUV.  

What Features in the 2021 Volvo XC40 Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Power-folding side mirrors
  • Leather upholstery
  • Power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory feature
  • Digital instrument panel
  • 9-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Blind spot warning
  • Rear automatic braking

Available features include:

  • Panoramic moonroof
  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Navigation
  • Harman Kardon premium stereo
  • Wireless device charging
  • 360-degree camera system
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-centering steering assist

Should I Buy the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The XC40 is an impressive entry in the subcompact luxury SUV class. The T5’s engine is strong, and the SUV handles well. The interior is quiet and offers good storage space. However, rear visibility is limited, and the rear-seat cushion is low and not that long. We also wish the multimedia system had more physical controls.

Available cars near you

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Safety review

Based on the 2021 Volvo XC40 base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Overall rating
5/5
Combined side rating front seat
5/5
Combined side rating rear seat
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
5/5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
5/5
Overall side crash rating
5/5
Rollover rating
4/5
Side barrier rating
5/5
Side barrier rating driver
5/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
15.5%
Risk of rollover
Side barrier rating driver
5/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
15.5%
Risk of rollover

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
12 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Maintenance
3 years / 30,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Less than 5 years / less than 80,000 miles
Basic
5 years / unlimited miles , upgradeable up to 10 years
Dealer certification
170- plus point inspection
See all CPO program details

Compare similar vehicles

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Consumer reviews

92% of drivers recommend this car
4.6 / 5
Based on 38 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.8
Interior 4.8
Performance 4.7
Value 4.4
Exterior 4.8
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • By Joel Sommers from Santa Fe, New Mexico
    Owns this car
    May 3, 2025

    My partner wanted me to get a vehicle that availed itself

    My partner wanted me to get a vehicle that availed itself of all the current self-driving and safety technologies currently on offer, and after much research, this is car I landed own. And the XC40 did not disappoint. I'm approaching my first year of ownership and comfortably say it is the best vehicle I've ever owned. With near seamless adaptable cruise control making multiple long-haul road trips as effortless as driving across town, my Volvo makes me want to drive it anywhere. Stylistically, it's a bit frustrating to now see every car on the road racing to copy its black-roof aggression, but I still get looks from folks who want to know if "that's a Volvo?" Of particular note is how the interior eschewed the trend of tacking on a giant tablet screen, opting instead for a generous dash-embedded interface that is comprehensive, intuitive and instantly responsive. I also love the app-driven features like remote start and customer temperature. The reputation for reliability is well-earned and validated. In summary, the prospect of this car one day needing to be replaced fills me with anxiety because I want to drive it forever. Well done, Volve.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Stephen from Seattle, WA
    Owns this car
    October 6, 2023

    Terrific all around car!

    Attractive styling both exterior and interior (for me). Bought a 2021 T-5 R design with Polestar enhanced performance package. It has been trouble free so far and handles and performs very well for a compact SUV. routine service dept. with Volvo has been excellent. Seats are comfortable and the interior space is surprisingly roomy. It took a little bit to get use to the tech, but I was coming from a Tundra, so it was to be expected. The only thing that is subpar is the Navigation system, but I understand that they have now contracted with google maps to provide this service. AWD makes me not worry about the weather. Terrific all around car!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Tracy from Stoke-on-Trent england
    Owns this car
    August 30, 2023

    Volvo Xc40 r-design 2021

    I have leased this car for 2 years on mobility straight from the manufacturers just 7 miles on clock, the comfort and spec was 100% however from the start while out driving this could be in a 30mph zone or a 50mph or over, the emergency brake would come on with no warning at all not good when you have a metal rods in your spine and a brain tumor volvo said it was normal you are driving to close to a kerb (ive only been driving for 30yrs) so after 6 months i took it back again as it didnt stop and i was hestating on making a car journey, they did a software update and said it shouldnt happen again but it did, this as lead to needing a set of back brakes then a set of front brakes and a full set of tyres im glad to say my lease as now ended my overall expierence of this car was not impressed 👍
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 1.0
    7 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Dan R from Grand Rapids, Mi
    Owns this car
    February 13, 2023

    Too many problems for this level vehicle

    PROBLEMS I HAVE/HAD IN 18 MONTHS: I had a rumbling kind of noise from the sunroof during rain. Service at my local dealership said they never heard of such a noise. I looked it up online, and there are numerous people complaining about this same noise. Service said because there is no history of the problem, there was not anything they could do about it. I told them I had read online about a fix. The service manager basically shamed me about believing what I read online. I persisted so they finally got it in to check it out. They ended up doing EXACTLY what I had read online to fix it. No noise since. The car has a pull to the right for no reason. I have not hit or ran over anything to cause it, and tire pressure is good in all 4. The dealership can not get me in for almost a month to even diagnose. I had a vibration while braking. I had to wait 3 weeks for an appointment. When I finally got it in, they told me the rotors were warped, but they did not have them in stock. They said they would call me. 3 weeks later, no call. I called the parts department anonymously and asked if they had the rotors in stock. Of course they did. I called service back and they said, “We were just going to call you”. Ummm, ok. I have a driving light out in the front. AGAIN, they can’t get me in for a month, and they said they could not tell me whether or not it is covered under warranty until they have it in. I paid $3k for 100k bumper to bumper warranty. This is BS! The tailgate is supposed to open when I swipe my foot under it. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. Service told me that’s just how the Volvos are. There’s nothing they can do to make it more consistent. For $50k I didn’t expect these little problems, and I certainly expected Volvo service to care more about the problems I am having!!! DISLIKES I DID NOT EXPECT FROM A $50 K LUXORY VEHICLE: Having the temperature/AC/heat settings available ONLY through the touchscreen is super inconvenient, if not a safety hazard. The slowest setting of the Heat/AC fan makes noise. Seriously, even on the lowest setting it is loud. The push button controls available for window defrost on/off are set to max and work fast, but once activated I can't make minor adjustments to their levels unless I use the touchscreen. These adjustments take too much attention from my driving. When using the raise/lower speed buttons on the steering wheel to change cruise control speed, it changes in increments of 5 mph, not 1. So if I am set at 60 and want to raise to 63, I have to turn it off, get my speed to 63, then turn it back on. The wiper washer system is horrible. The washer fluid goes onto the blade itself instead of spraying on the window. It never spreads evenly.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    29 people out of 34 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Car from Noblesville, IN
    Owns this car
    June 17, 2021

    Runs smooth, hugs the road, great ride.

    After driving my previously owned vehicle for 13 years, I'm looking forward to learning more about my new Volvo XC40's performance and various functions. I plan on enjoying it.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    9 people out of 11 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By DBNowAVolvoFan from Mount Holly
    Owns this car
    June 8, 2021

    Drive a Volvo, Buy a Volvo!

    Our XC40 T5 R-Design was a great purchase. This is our first move into what I consider the Luxury Car market. We test drove and investigated other brands, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and we came back to the Volvo. The I4 Turbo in this vehicle puts out 248 hp, plenty to power this small SUV. The ride is comfortable. Handling is great. The Infotainment system is easy to use, and with the Nav displayed in the center of the LED Instrument cluster it makes navigation easy - no more portable unit falling off the window! 8 way power driver and passenger seats are comfortable and include power lumbar support. Lane Assist feature was a real selling point for my wife - she's pleased. We've had the car for a week now and each time I drive it I am more satisfied that we made the best decision in this class vehicle. Very pleased with our Volvo!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By MichelleNM Luxurious from Rio Rancho, NM
    Owns this car
    May 26, 2021

    Most luxurious car I have ever owned.

    Car has everything I could ever want in an SUV. It is spacious and the comfort of the ride is exceptional. It is fully loaded and I got the inscription model which is luxurious. I am in love with my new car lol. It has all the latest technology and luxurious features. Colors of the interior go very well together as well.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Tracey from Oklahoma City
    Owns this car
    May 24, 2021

    Most luxuriant car I've ever owned!

    Maneuvers extremely well, smells wonderful, has get up and go and just is basically an awesome car. If you want the ultimate small sport utility with style, this is your car!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Doris from Lexington, Ky.
    Owns this car
    May 22, 2021

    Best Volvo yet

    I am enjoying my new XC40. The seats are comfortable; the car handles well. The newer safety features are very good. I love the larger screen for seeing information.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Jackie from NH
    Owns this car
    May 22, 2021

    Best Car I've Ever Owned and I feel so safe!

    The ride of this vehicle is like no other. It's smooth, sleek. stylish and most importantly, SAFE. You can tell the moment you sit in the vehicle that it's the one! Headlights turn when you turn, mirrors block headlights behind you, dashboard is informative and the space inside is just right for me.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Eileen’s new Volvo from pottsville PA
    Owns this car
    May 20, 2021

    Best looking small SUV

    Loved the design and two colors. White bottom with black top. Ride is good feels very solid. I am familiar with Volvos, still amazed with all the safety features. Getting a lot of complements on my new car
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By GailNH from Dover, NH
    Owns this car
    May 16, 2021

    I Love this Car!

    This car has exceeded all of my expectations. I honestly don’t believe I am the owner. It is the most incredible car I have ever owned.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
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Volvo dealers near you

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The 2021 Volvo XC40 is available in 3 trim levels:

  • Inscription (2 styles)
  • Momentum (2 styles)
  • R-Design (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offers up to 23 MPG in city driving and 32 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2021 Volvo XC40?

The 2021 Volvo XC40 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2021 Volvo XC40 reliable?

The 2021 Volvo XC40 has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2021 Volvo XC40 owners.

Is the 2021 Volvo XC40 a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2021 Volvo XC40. 92.1% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 38 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.8
  • Interior: 4.8
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 4.8
  • Reliability: 4.6

Volvo XC40 history

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