2024 Volvo XC40 B5 Review

Introduction

As electric vehicles increasingly dominate the conversation, automakers are finding ways to keep their traditional gas-powered models relevant. Enter the 2024 Volvo XC40 B5—a compact luxury crossover that receives a mild hybrid upgrade while retaining the features that have made it a favorite among premium small SUV buyers. But does this electrified tweak do enough to keep it competitive? Thanks to Volvo Canada, I had one week to test drive the 2024 Volvo XC40 B5. Below is my unbiased review.

Exterior

The XC40 has been turning heads since its debut, and the 2024 model continues that trend with its crisp Scandinavian design. It retains its boxy yet elegant proportions, short overhangs, and signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights. The B5 variant gets a slightly refreshed grille, lending it a more refined look. Buyers can choose between various trims with either blacked-out or chrome accents, allowing for a more personalized aesthetic.

Volvo also offers a range of stylish wheel options, from 18-inch base alloys to massive 21-inch wheels on the Ultimate trim. My tester, equipped with 20-inch wheels, struck a good balance between aesthetics and ride comfort. The overall design remains clean, contemporary, and unmistakably Volvo, setting it apart from rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Interior

Step inside the XC40 B5, and you’re greeted with a cabin that exudes both minimalism and sophistication. Volvo’s attention to detail is evident in the use of high-quality materials, from the leather upholstery to the recycled plastic door inserts, which feel far more premium than their origins suggest. The Ultimate trim features a real wood dashboard and a crystal gear shifter, adding a touch of luxury that elevates the overall experience.

Seating comfort is excellent, with the front seats providing ample support for long drives. The rear seats, while not the most spacious in the segment, are well-cushioned and offer adequate leg- and headroom for average-sized adults. The XC40’s tall roofline helps create an airy feel, making the cabin feel larger than its compact dimensions might suggest.

Infotainment

Volvo’s Google-based infotainment system takes center stage in the XC40 B5, displayed on a vertical 9-inch touchscreen. The system integrates Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant for voice commands, and access to the Google Play Store for additional apps like Spotify. While Android users will find this system intuitive and well-integrated, Apple CarPlay is included (though frustratingly, it’s not wireless).

However, there are some usability concerns. Unlike some competitors, the system does not allow for split-screen functionality, meaning you can’t have navigation and media controls displayed simultaneously. Some climate controls are also embedded within the touchscreen, which can be cumbersome while driving. Additionally, during my test week, the infotainment system lags at times. While not a deal-breaker, it’s an issue that Volvo should address for improved reliability.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Volvo has built its reputation on safety, and the XC40 B5 continues that legacy with an impressive suite of standard features. Lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking all come standard. The Ultimate trim also adds adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera, which enhances parking ease.

That said, the absence of automatic windshield wipers at this price point is perplexing. The backup camera also defaults to a smaller display, requiring manual selection for the full 360-degree view—an odd oversight in an otherwise tech-forward vehicle. The 360-degree view shows obvious distortion at times, but does not impacts its functionality. 

Driving Experience

The biggest change in the 2024 XC40 B5 is its mild hybrid system, which pairs a 48-volt electric motor with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. On paper, the numbers remain unchanged—247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque—but the addition of the hybrid system is meant to improve efficiency and smooth out power delivery.

In practice, the driving experience remains largely similar to the outgoing model. The XC40 B5 accelerates well and feels nimble in city traffic. However, the eight-speed automatic transmission occasionally struggles with gear selection, resulting in hesitant downshifts and an inconsistent throttle response. The stop-start system is also more aggressive than expected, leading to some noticeable jolts in stop-and-go traffic.

On the plus side, the XC40 continues to handle well. The steering is responsive, and the standard all-wheel drive provides excellent traction, even on wet or icy roads. Ride quality leans toward the firmer side, particularly with the larger wheels, but it never feels punishing. The brakes are strong and reassuring, though the firm pedal may take some getting used to.

Efficiency gains from the mild hybrid system are modest. The 2024 XC40 B5 has a combined rating of 9.0 L/100 km, which is only slightly better than the previous model. Over my one week test drive, I averaged 8.4 L/100 km—respectable for an AWD luxury crossover, but still requiring premium fuel.

Cargo Space & Storage

Practicality has always been a strong suit for the XC40. Behind the rear seats, it offers 452 L of cargo space, which expands to 1,328 L when the seats are folded down. The cargo area also features a clever folding floor with integrated hooks to secure grocery bags—a simple but thoughtful touch.

Storage throughout the cabin is well-executed, with sizable door bins, a deep center console, and a handy compartment beneath the driver’s seat. Volvo’s commitment to functionality is evident, making this a strong option for small families or active individuals who need versatility.

Conclusion

The 2024 Volvo XC40 B5 remains a stylish and capable contender in the compact luxury SUV segment. Its Scandinavian design, comfortable interior, and solid safety credentials continue to make it an appealing choice. However, the mild hybrid system does little to enhance performance or efficiency, and the quirks in the infotainment and transmission hold it back from being a class leader.

For those considering an XC40, the fully electric Recharge model might be a more future-proof investment. But if you’re set on a gas-powered option, the B5 still offers a well-rounded package—just don’t expect groundbreaking improvements over its predecessor.