2021 Volvo XC40 review
Volvo XC40 highlights
Customer rating
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Mileage (EPA estimate)
22 city, 30 highway, 25 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.
Pure luxury in a compact package.
The Volvo XC40 is a five-passenger compact SUV that delivers a pure luxury experience in an easy-to-use package. The well-equipped XC40 boasts a wide variety of standard and available features across its three main trim levels. If you're looking for a luxury-focused compact SUV, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is a perfect choice.
All Volvo XC40 years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Volvo XC40 generation from 2019 to 2026
What is new for the 2021 Volvo XC40?
- XC40 trims have been upgraded with Front Seat Heaters, Heated Steering Wheel, 20 Inch Plus Wheels, and Turbo/Supercharged Engine as standard equipment this year.
- Rear Seat Heaters features are now available as options on select trims.
- The T5 Momentum trim now comes with Leather Seats, Parking Sensors, and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment.
- The T4 Momentum trim now comes with Leather Seats, Parking Sensors, and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment.
2021 Volvo XC40 trims
Curious how Volvo XC40 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesT4 Momentum:
- 187-hp, 221-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Smart Key
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Automated Parking
- Memory Seats
- Power Seats
- Leather Seats
- Rear View Camera
- Lane Departure Warning
- View our Volvo XC40 T4 Momentum inventory
T4 R-Design:
- Includes all features available on the T4 Momentum
- Leather & Suede Seats
- Panoramic Sunroof
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Navigation System
- View our Volvo XC40 T4 R-Design inventory
T4 Inscription:
- Includes all features available on the T4 R-Design
- No significant upgrades found on the T4 Inscription
- View our Volvo XC40 T4 Inscription inventory
T5 Momentum:
- Includes all features available on the T4 Inscription
- 248-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Front Seat Heaters
- 4WD/AWD
- View our Volvo XC40 T5 Momentum inventory
T5 R-Design:
- Includes all features available on the T5 Momentum
- No significant upgrades found on the T5 R-Design
- View our Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design inventory
T5 Inscription:
- Includes all features available on the T5 R-Design
- No significant upgrades found on the T5 Inscription
- View our Volvo XC40 T5 Inscription inventory
Volvo XC40 photos
1. Distinctive design
From the bold exterior to the plush and practical interior, the XC40 is pure Volvo. Even with its compact design, it will never blend in across a crowded parking lot. With standard exterior LED lighting, you'll light your way in style, too. The XC40's sharp lines and standard 18-inch wheels deliver an attractive and capable compact crossover.
2. Creative storage
Its diminutive size doesn't mean the XC40 is lacking in practicality. Volvo made use of every inch of interior space with flexible storage solutions. Look for storage tricks like bag hooks on the passenger side of the dashboard plus large door bins and hidden compartments throughout. Whether you are bringing additional people or gear, your XC40 will be ready for whatever adventure you throw at it.
3. Luxurious trims
All 2021 models come with standard leather seating surfaces, even on the base Momentum trim level. Choose the sporty R-Design and you'll find perforated Nappa leather throughout. Take a look at the top Inscription trim for features like genuine driftwood dashboard inlays and even an amazing Orrefors® crystal gearshift knob.
4. Connected tech
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity mean that you'll get seamless control of integrated entertainment options while on the go. The available wireless charging spot will keep your phone charged on the go, so you can always be connected to friends and family. The XC40 even has the available Volvo On Call communication app, which includes features such as remote start/stop engine, vehicle tracking, a driving journal, and more.
5. City & country ready
The compact XC40 is city-ready with a compact size that will help you sneak into that last parking spot. Its available 360-degree camera system gives you a top-down view of the XC40 and its surroundings. With a maximum 57.5 cu-ft of cargo space and an impressive 8.3 inches of ground clearance, the XC40 is ready for a long weekend at the campsite, too. So, whether for city life or a quick escape from it, the Volvo XC40 is a great option.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2021 Volvo XC40, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The 2017-2021 Audi Q3 offers a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive is available on the Q3. Equipped with premium features and modern technology, even the base model feels top-of-the-line.
Standard features of the 2017-2021 Audi Q3 base model include:
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Satellite radio
Bluetooth streaming audio for compatible devices
Panoramic sunroof
Leather seating
The BMW X1 is a compact SUV with upscale features, smart storage solutions, and passenger comforts. The 2016-2019 X1 has a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that delivers 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This standard powertrain is paired to front- or all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2016-2019 X1 is a capable crossover with plenty of sporty excitement.
Standard features of the 2016-2019 BMW X1 include:
Power liftgate
18-inch wheels
6.5-inch infotainment screen
If you're shopping for a compact luxury SUV with a quiet and comfortable ride, the Lexus NX is ideal for commuting or road trips. 2017–2021 models feature a suspension that glides over bumps and ruts and a 235-hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder under the hood.
2017–2021 NX 300 models come standard with:
Leatherette upholstery
Eight-speaker audio system
Power-adjustable front seats
Shop with your budget in mind
Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.
Ratings & reliability
Volvo XC40 features and specs
Curious how Volvo XC40 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
T4 Momentum 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Heated Mirrors
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automated Parking
- Front Seat Heaters
- Full Roof Rack
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Navigation System
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Smart Key
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
187
Torque (ft-lbs)
221
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
14.2
Wheelbase
106.4"
Overall length
174.2"
Width
73.3"
Height
65.3"
Leg room
F 40.9"/R 36.1"
Head room
F 39"/R 39.1"
Front tires
P235/55HR18
Rear tires
P235/55HR18
Seating capacity
5
Max towing capacity
350/3500 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2021 Volvo XC40 FAQ
The 2021 Volvo XC40 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- T4 Momentum: 23 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- T4 R-Design: 23 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- T4 Inscription: 23 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- T5 Momentum: 22 MPG City and 30 MPG Highway
- T5 R-Design: 22 MPG City and 30 MPG Highway
- T5 Inscription: 22 MPG City and 30 MPG Highway
The 2021 Volvo XC40 has received an average 5.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Volvo XC40, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Volvo XC40 Reviews.
The 2021 Volvo XC40 has a maximum towing capacity of 3500 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2021 Volvo XC40:
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Front Seat Heaters
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Leather Seats
More about the 2021 Volvo XC40
Color options
Exterior colors:
Black Stone
Crystal White Metallic
Denim Blue Metallic
Fusion Red Metallic
Glacier Silver Metallic
Onyx Black Metallic
Pebble Grey Metallic
Thunder Grey Metallic
Interior details
Features 20.7 cu-ft of cargo space (57.5 cu-ft with the second row folded)
Nine-inch infotainment touchscreen
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto capability
Leather seating
Crystal-trimmed gear shifter knob (Inscription trim only)
NHTSA Safety Ratings
The 2021 Volvo XC40 (T4 and T5 models) received an overall 5/5 rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Find out more about this rating and how NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program evaluates the crash protection and rollover safety of new vehicles.
Keep in mind that certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Click here to look up a specific vehicle.
Research other vehicles
- Used 2021 Volvo near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 Luxury Vehicles near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 SUVs near me for sale
- Used 2019 Volvo XC40 near me for sale
- Used 2022 Volvo XC40 near me for sale
- Used 2023 Volvo XC40 near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 B5 Core near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 with Navigation System near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 with Panoramic Sunroof near me for sale
- Used 2022 Volvo XC40 T4 Inscription near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 T4 Momentum near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 T4 R-Design near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 T5 Inscription near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 T5 Momentum near me for sale
- Used Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design near me for sale
- 2025 Audi Q3 review
- 2025 Audi Q7 review
- 2025 Audi Q8 review
- 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron review
- 2022 BMW 745 Plug in Hybrid review
- 2022 BMW 750 review
- 2012 BMW 750 Hybrid review
- 2025 BMW X1 review
- 2019 Cadillac CTS-V review
- 2016 Cadillac ELR review
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade review
- 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV review
- 2017 Ford Escape review
- 2019 Ford Escape review
- 2019 GMC Savana 2500 review
- 2012 Honda Accord CrossTour review
- 2021 Lexus NX 300 review
- Used Volvo buying guide
- 2020 Volvo XC40 review
- 2022 Volvo XC40 review
- 2024 Volvo XC40 review
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.