Volvo’s product renewal is well underway, with the EX60 leading the way. A third-generation XC60 with a hybrid powertrain and assembled at the automaker’s South Carolina facility will follow soon. What’s next? The 2028 Volvo 40 Series SUVs. Like its larger siblings, two models arrive early next year: the XC40 and EX40. A hybrid and a battery-electric vehicle.
2028 Volvo 40 Series: Evolution, Scandinavian Style
Expect the 2028 Volvo 40 Series models to continue the design language introduced by the EX60. That means clean, streamlined shapes that highlight the simplicity and elegance of Scandinavian design. For the XC40, that means an evolution of the current SUV’s boxy, upright stance. Meanwhile, the EX40 should adopt a more aerodynamic profile. Think larger EX30 but with less bubbly face. Out back, expect the same taillight treatment found on the EX30, EX60, and EX90.
On the inside, the simple elegance should continue, along with practical touches. That means the centrally mounted glove box and open space between the driver and front passenger should be present. In addition, expect the new center console design, featuring a pop-out bin that doubles as cupholders, to be present as well. We hope that Volvo adds more creature comforts to the 40 Series models. The current XC40 and EX40 don’t have ventilated front seats, a feature we wish the new one would include. Additionally, a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system option would be nice to have.
Meanwhile, the tech features should carry over from the EX60. That means Google Built-in with Gemini, a massive 15-inch touchscreen, and more. Volvo’s full suite of driver assistance features should also be present and include Pilot Assist. Expect both the XC40 and EX40 to include more advanced sensors and cameras.
Two Distinct Architectures
Things diverge between the two 40 Series Volvo models under the skin. The XC40 should use an evolution of the CMA platform, dubbed CMA 3.0 by parent company Geely. Expect the same 48-volt mild hybrid 2.0-liter turbocharged engines to return alongside a new full hybrid setups and potentially, a plug-in hybrid.
On the other hand, the all-electric EX40 moves to the new SPA3 architecture that debuted on the EX60. It may also use the same batteries, except for the larger 117-kWh unit. The largest option on the EX40 could be the 95-kWh pack from the EX60 P10 AWD. Volvo says that variant has a driving range of 322 miles on 20 or 21-inch wheels, or 312 miles on the 22s. Expect the EX40 have a similar or higher driving range. As for the electrical architecture, the EX40 should move to an 800-volt setup for lightning-quick DC charging. A NACS port should come standard on the North American-spec models.
Additionally, the EX40 may be the twin to the upcoming Polestar 7. Volvo will build both SUVs at its new plant in Kosice, Slovakia. According to our sources, the next-generation XC40 and EX40 will arrive in 2027. We can’t wait for these models to come stateside, especially the EX40.
