Volvo XC40 facelift: a style update and the arrival of Gemini on board

The Volvo XC40 is undergoing its second facelift since 2022, with a focus on style and technology. It is a key model for the Swedish brand’s sales, thanks to a range that still features internal combustion engines, with electrification limited to mild-hybrid powertrains. The facelift introduces a new electronic platform and a more comprehensive suite of sensors. The changes also apply to the all-electric EX40 and EC40 models, with which the XC40 shares much of its architecture and interior.

The facelift primarily alters the front end, without changing the XC40’s proportions or dimensions. The length remains at 4.44 metres, with a width of 1.87 metres, a height of 1.65 metres and a wheelbase of 2.70 metres. However, the Matrix LED headlamps have been updated, featuring a revised interpretation of the ‘Thor’s Hammer’ light signature, alongside changes to the grille, front bumper, bonnet and wing panels. The changes continue at the rear, where there are new LED tail lights, a revised tailgate and a redesigned bumper. New 18-, 19- and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels are also being introduced for the XC40.

The update to the safety and driver-assistance systems is more substantial. The XC40 utilises an updated software platform and a revised sensor network, comprising new front and side radars, a new front-facing camera, rear radars, twelve ultrasonic sensors and new cameras dedicated to manoeuvring. This equipment enables systems such as automatic emergency braking and automatic steering to be updated to avoid or mitigate the consequences of a potential collision. There is also a new Door Opening Alert, which warns the driver before a door is opened if an approaching vehicle or cyclist is detected. The optional Pilot Assist adds lane-change assistance and has been updated to improve trajectory control, whilst the 360-degree camera can now reconstruct a three-dimensional view of the area around the car.

The main update to the interior is the 11.2-inch vertical central screen, which is larger than the one previously used. The interface has been updated with the latest generation of Volvo’s system, based on Google services, and reduces the number of steps required to access the car’s main functions. The XC40 also introduces Google Gemini, which is set to gradually replace Google Assistant. This AI-powered assistant allows you to use more natural language to give commands and can handle more complex requests. Features include route planning, finding a place to stop whilst travelling, and managing messages without having to use your smartphone directly.

The cabin retains its practical layout, with various storage compartments and an upgraded wireless smartphone charger, whilst the materials and finishes have been updated. The XC40 introduces the option to combine the leather upholstery, named Arianne Cardamom, with genuine ash wood inlays, whilst Black and aluminium finishes are also available as alternatives. Boot capacity remains at 443 litres in the standard configuration, whilst folding down the rear seats increases the maximum stated volume to 1,432 litres. Legroom for rear passengers is 917 millimetres, unchanged from the previous model.