The Volvo XC40 presents a digital driver’s display as standard, ensuring crucial information is readily available at a glance. However, the minimalist aesthetic of the dashboard design necessitates navigating the infotainment touchscreen for almost all adjustments, including the climate control. This reliance on the touchscreen can divert attention from driving, and the inclusion of physical controls, similar to those found in the GV70, would enhance ease of use.
Enhanced Visibility and Parking Aids
The elevated driving position in the XC40 provides excellent forward visibility, further supported by the slender windscreen pillars. The generously sized door mirrors also contribute to a clear view of adjacent traffic, and the inclusion of bright LED headlights improves nighttime driving.
Rearward visibility is somewhat limited due to the upward sweep of the window line towards the rear of the vehicle. To mitigate this, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are standard across all trim levels. Upgrading to the Plus trim adds front parking sensors for enhanced maneuverability.
For ultimate ease in tight parking situations, the top-tier Ultimate trim provides a 360-degree camera system. Ultimate models also benefit from matrix LED headlights, which maintain full beam illumination without causing glare to other drivers.
Volvo XC40 interior dashboard
Infotainment and Navigation System
The XC40’s dashboard is dominated by a 9.0-inch portrait-style touchscreen, functioning similarly to a tablet. While the concept of swipe, pinch, and scroll functionality seems appealing, in practice, operating the touchscreen for simple tasks like changing radio stations requires more extended glances away from the road than is ideal.
