2026 Volvo XC40 Updates

Volvo's giving its compact luxury SUV a refresh for 2026. The XC40 gets some much-needed updates that are sure to improve your Orange County drives, including the return of the front-wheel-drive (FWD) option, impressive tech upgrades, and attractive styling packages.

Detailed Overview of the 2026 Volvo XC40

Volvo has brought back the B4 powertrain and FWD setup after eliminating it in the 2024 model year. The XC40 Core FWD will likely be your entry point at around $41,195. It retains Volvo's premium feel without pricing you out of luxury SUV features.

The tech side gets a boost with Qualcomm's Snapdragon Cockpit Platform. The new infotainment system is more than twice as responsive as before, with graphics that generate up to 10 times faster. Every XC40 comes with a 12.3-inch driver display and a 9-inch touch screen that includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the new Volvo Car UX for a more intuitive experience.

The new Black Edition package features a gloss black grille, badging, and special black wheels that work with Crystal White, Vapour Grey, Denim Blue, and Onyx Black paint. Glossy black roof rails, window trim, mirror caps, skid plates, and distinctive 20-inch five-double-spoke black diamond-cut alloy wheels are all part of the Black Edition. New exterior colors include Forest Lake, a semi-dark green metallic that sparkles in the sun, and Aurora Silver, which has a futuristic look with hints of purple.

Performance and Efficiency Improvements

The returning B4 engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an integrated starter-generator that puts out 194 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. It'll go from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.1 seconds through an eight-speed automatic transmission with FWD, which feels quick enough for daily driving without being aggressive. For Orange County commuters, it strikes a good balance between having some pep and not using a lot of gas.

If you want more power, the B5 bumps things up to 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, getting to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds with all-wheel drive (AWD). Both engines use the same refined 2.0-liter setup with the eight-speed automatic, but the B5 engine gives you some extra power for highway merging and mountain drives. Having both Core and Plus FWD models for 2026 means you can pick what works for your driving style and budget.

Gas mileage stays competitive at 23 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and a 369-mile range with AWD versions. EPA estimates for the 2026 model indicate 26 mpg combined, with real-world testing showing that nearly 29 mpg is possible, impressive for a compact SUV with an upscale feel.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Safety's always been a priority for Volvo, and adaptive cruise control is now standard across the entire 2026 lineup. This system uses cameras and sensors to automatically adjust your speed and keep a safe distance from other cars, which is particularly helpful during long commutes on busy Orange County freeways.

The 2026 XC40 earned a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration five-star overall safety rating and Good scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in three of four crash tests. Decades of Volvo safety engineering are paying off with real protection for you and your passengers. Standard driver-assistance features work together to create multiple safety layers, from automated emergency braking to rear cross-traffic alert, keeping an eye on what's happening around you.

Volvo's improved tech platform supports safer driving by reducing distractions. The faster, more responsive interface means less time hunting through menus and more time watching the road.

Comparing the 2025 and 2026 Models

Getting the B4 engine and its FWD option back after it was discontinued is a game-changer if you want Volvo's safety and style without paying for AWD that you might not need.

Technology's where you'll really notice the difference between years, thanks to the new Snapdragon Cockpit Platform. Voice controls for navigation, media, and vehicle functions work much better, too. Interior updates include refreshed materials and upholstery.

All these updates create a compelling package if you want a small crossover that's comfortable, drives well, and looks great inside and out.

Experience the 2026 Volvo XC40 at Volvo Cars Mission Viejo

If you're ready to see what the XC40 is all about, head over to our dealership in Mission Viejo. Get behind the wheel for a test drive and find out how these 2026 improvements feel in real life. We can walk you through all the new features and help you find the perfect XC40 for your Orange County lifestyle.