2022 Volvo XC40

Pros: Decent interior room within extra-compact exterior dimensions; upscale interior; composed ride and handling; broad range of optional features; spunky styling

Cons: Pricing gets steep as options are added; infotainment system isn’t as user-friendly as some competitors’; thick rear roof pillars compromise visibility

CG Says: The 2022 Volvo XC40 lineup sees minor changes. All models get slight revisions to standard and available equipment, and the Recharge pure-electric version has an improved driving range and a new trim-level arrangement. The XC40 is the smallest SUV in Volvo’s lineup; it slots below the XC60 in size and price. The XC40 is positioned as an upscale urban vehicle and is aimed at a younger demographic; it’s about ten inches shorter overall than the XC60, and its styling is a bit more exuberant than the rest of the Volvo lineup. The sole gas engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. In front-wheel-drive T4 versions this engine develops 187 horsepower and in all-wheel-drive T5 versions it is rated at 248 hp. With either gas powertrain, trim levels ascend through base Momentum, sporty R-Design models, and upscale Inscription. The XC40 Recharge pure-electric has 402 horsepower and a driving range of 223 miles, up from 208 miles last year. The Recharge model lineup is revamped to consist of Twin, Twin Plus and Twin Ultimate trim levels.

The generous list of standard features includes 8-way power driver seat with memory, blind-spot alert with steering assist, rear cross-traffic alert, power-retractable and auto-dimming mirrors, remote starting, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Standard safety gear includes forward collision warning and mitigation, lane-departure warning and mitigation, lane-keep assist with oncoming traffic avoidance, 360-degree camera display, and rear obstacle detection. Optional features include a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, power-folding rear seatbacks and headrests, power liftgate, adaptive headlights, and wireless device charging. The XC40’s distinctive looks inside and out, peppy turbocharged engine, efficient interior layout, and extensive list of optional equipment make it an especially compelling entry in the premium subcompact crossover segment. The all-electric Recharge model broadens XC40’s appeal.