Facelifted Volvo XC40 revealed

The Volvo XC40 has received a mild nip-and-tuck as part of a midlife makeover that’s set to arrive Down Under next year.

Images of the updated small Scandinavian SUV, which first appeared on Volvo Cars Germany’s online configurator before being shared by Spanish website Cochespias, show a revised front-end design for the XC40, which will arrive in Australia as an MY23 model around mid-2022.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 borrows the ‘Pixel’ LED headlights and, for electric versions, frameless grille design from the Swedish brand’s all-new C40 crossover, while an upgraded front bumper features newly designed air intakes. 

The rear-end of the award-winning small European SUV, which is now available in Australia in both plug-in hybrid and all-electric forms,

continues on apparently untouched, but new metallic colour options, including Sage Green and Fjord Blue, will be added to the menu. New wheel designs will also join the range.

Meanwhile, new ‘Bright’ and ‘Dark’ packages, which could replace the current R-Design sports styling package, bring more exterior styling tweaks, changing the colour of the grille, window surrounds, roof rails and rear bumper inserts to silver or black, depending on the pack.

Inside, the updated MY22 Volvo XC40 (as it will be badged in Europe) is also set to bring new wool and suede upholstery options, while a gear selector borrowed from the Polestar 2 also debuts.

Models fitted with a mild-hybrid powertrain, which is not currently available in Australia, will come with Volvo’s latest Android-based 9.0-inch touch-screen infotainment unit, incorporating Google Maps and Google Assistant, among other features.

Other standard equipment – depending on the grade – includes dual-zone climate control, a 360-degree camera, 13-speaker Harmon/Kardon sound system and electric front seats with heating and driver’s memory.

Every Volvo XC40 will also carryover the brand’s full suite of safety and driver assistance features, including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane assist, park assist and traffic sign recognition.

Stay tuned for local pricing and full specifications for the MY23 Volvo XC40 before its local arrival next year.