2023 Volvo XC40 Facelift Spotted Undisguised As Brand Quietly Reveals It On Euro Configurators
Our spy photographers caught a completely undisguised 2023 Volvo XC40 out in the wild, showing mild visual tweaks. What is interesting is that Volvo has already uploaded pictures of the facelifted model in its official pages in Europe, quietly unveiling the model without a public announcement. The U.S. Volvo page, however, still shows the pre-facelift models.
The facelifted Volvo XC40’s redesigned front end is largely carried over from the newer C40 Recharge coupe-SUV sibling. This includes the reshaped LED headlights and the new bumper that is more sculpted than before. The grille which is mostly covered on the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge retains the more traditional look on the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants of the XC40 since these still have an internal combustion engine.
The profile looks virtually identical other than new designs for the wheels, while the taillights got slightly updated LED graphics. The configurator still has the pre-facelifted model on the sporty R-Design trim which will likely be replaced by the new “Light” and “Dark” visual packages changing the finish on the grille, roof rails, and window frames to either chrome or gloss black.
Inside, changes are limited to new materials for the decorative strip on the dashboard depending on the trim level. Most importantly, the facelifted XC40 benefits from the Google-based infotainment in the same 9-inch touchscreen, as seen on Polestar models and Volvo’s own XC40 Recharge EV. At the same time, it retains Volvo’s signature ADAS systems and safety features.
The XC40 has been a sales hit for Volvo since its debut in 2017. While the SUV still looks fresh thanks to the modern Scandinavian design approach, five years later it was time for a mid-life update.
The UK range consists of two mild-hybrid (B3, B4) and two plug-in hybrids (T4, T5) powertrain variants carried over from the pre-facelifted model, now available in three trim levels (Core, Plus, Ultimate). The B3 is fitted with a mild-hybrid 2.0-liter engine producing 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS), while the B4 is more powerful at 194 hp (145 kW / 197 PS) while offering an AWD option.
The pre-facelift U.S. market 2022 Volvo XC40 pictured above, versus the facelifted XC40 shown on Volvo’s UK page below
In the plug-in hybrid department, the XC40 Recharge T4 and T5 combine the 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, for a combined output of 258 hp (192 kW / 262 PS). Last but not least, there is the fully electric XC40 Recharge with 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) from a single electric motor or with 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) from dual electric motors.
In the UK, on-the-road pricing starts at £34,100 ($46,220) for the B3 FWD, although other European markets get cheaper options. All variants of the facelifted XC40 have a delivery time of 8-9 months meaning that the first owners will get their vehicles before the end of 2022.
PHOTO GALLERY
