2028 Volvo XC40 Debuts With A New Face And A Mild-Hybrid Powertrain

The Volvo XC40 has been on sale for nearly a decade, believe it or not, with surprisingly few changes to show for it. But with the XC60 and XC90 both receiving recent tweaks, it seemed like the right time for Volvo to give its smallest SUV some attention, too.

For 2028, the Volvo XC40 gets the usual assortment of updates we’ve come to expect from the brand—a minor exterior refresh, small changes to the cabin, and a new powertrain. If you’re looking for a dramatic redesign, you’ll want to look elsewhere. The latest XC40 doesn't fix what isn't broken.

2028 Volvo XC40 Key Facts

• What's new? The updated XC40 sees a new front fascia, complete with updated Thor's Hammer headlights
• The XC40 becomes mild-hybrid only, with the pure-ICE and electric EX40 variants being dropped from the US market
• An updated cabin features Volvo's new 11.2-inch screen, as well as optional leather seats

2028 Volvo XC40

Photo by: Volvo

New Lights, Less Piano-Black Plastic

The updated XC40 gets new Thor’s Hammer headlights up front, along with a sleeker grille and a more sculpted hood. A set of 18-inch wheels comes standard, while 19- and new 20-inch wheels are also available as an option. Around back, updated taillights help modernize the rear end.

Despite those changes, the XC40’s overall shape remains the same—and still as likable as ever. 

Inside is more or less the same story. Volvo tidied up the XC40's cabin, with the biggest change being a new 11.2-inch touchscreen that we’ve already seen in other updated Volvo models. It runs Volvo’s latest operating system and comes with Google’s Gemini AI. The screen is also angled slightly toward the driver, which should make it easier to use.

2028 Volvo XC40 Interior

Photos by: Volvo

2028 Volvo XC40 Interior

Another notable change is the reduction in piano-black plastic. It’s still present on the center console, but Volvo has removed the glossy finish from the air vents and some dashboard pieces, replacing it with soft-touch materials instead.

Beyond the new screen and reduced piano-black trim, the updated XC40 gets optional leather seats and Brown Ash wood accents on the dashboard. Volvo is also making its Orrefors crystal shifter available on more US trims.

Photo by: Volvo

Upgraded Safety Tech

As always, safety remains a major focus for Volvo, and the XC40 gets a number of updated safety and driver-assistance features for 2028.

For starters, there’s a new exterior camera system. The optional 360-degree camera now offers a 3D view, making it easier to navigate tight parking spots and other tricky situations. The XC40 also gets Door Opening Alert, which can warn occupants if a potential hazard, such as a cyclist, is approaching the vehicle when they’re about to open a door.

Volvo’s Pilot Assist system has also been updated, adding automatic lane changes to its list of capabilities.

Photo by: Volvo

Mild Hybrid Only

Under the hood, the XC40 gets an upgraded turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a mild-hybrid system. It produces 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with power sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

For now, there will be no plug-in hybrid or pure-ICE variants of the XC40 in the United States. Meanwhile, the fully electric EX40 is being dropped from the US market entirely. RIP.

When Will the New XC40 Show Up?

The updated XC40 will go on sale in early 2027, with production starting this fall. Volvo has not released any pricing, but expect it to start in the low $40,000 range.

Motor1's Take: The Volvo XC40 seems to have been given less attention over the years than its larger siblings. We're happy that Volvo has given it some of the love it deserves. Also, any car that gets rid of some of its piano black plastic is good in our book. Way to go, Volvo.

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