Read our expert 2026 Volvo EX40 review covering performance, pricing, features, specs, fuel economy, warranty details, and photos of this subcompact electric luxury SUV.

2025-2026 Volvo EX40 in Sand Dune front angled view driving

2025-2026 Volvo EX40 in Sand Dune

Volvo
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MSRP:  $55,150

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Overview

The 2026 Volvo EX40 is a subcompact electric luxury SUV that evolves from the XC40 Recharge. The Single Motor produces 248 hp and 310 lb-ft, sending power to the rear wheels and delivering up to 296 miles of range. The Twin Motor adds all-wheel drive, 402 hp and 494 lb-ft, and a range of 260 miles. Both use a 79-kWh battery and support DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in about 28 minutes. Google Built-in handles infotainment duties. Key rivals include the Genesis GV60 and BMW iX1.


2025-2026 Volvo EX40 in Sand Dune rear angled view driving
2025-2026 Volvo EX40 in Sand Dune

Volvo

What’s New for 2026?

For the 2026 EX40, the lineup becomes simpler. Volvo has removed the previous Core trim, making the Plus the new base model. A new Black Edition Ultra trim joins the range, offered exclusively with the Twin Motor powertrain, and the regular Ultra is dropped. It adds blacked-out 20-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior accents, Harman Kardon audio, Pixel Technology headlights, heated rear seats, and Pilot Assist. Exterior color choices include Onyx Black, Crystal White, Vapour Grey, and Denim Blue, with either high-contrast or monochrome combinations. A standard NACS fast-charge adapter expands access to public charging networks.


Exterior

The EX40 follows Volvo’s clean Scandinavian design approach. It features simple lines and Thor’s Hammer LED headlights. A sealed front grille panel signals its electric identity. The Plus trim rides on 19-inch wheels, while the Ultra Black Edition uses 20-inch wheels for a bolder stance. The Black Edition also brings gloss-black trim, mirror caps, and badges. At just 174.8 inches long, it’s one of the smallest compacts out there, and close to subcompact territory.


Interior

The Volvo EX40’s cabin reflects a focus on sustainable materials and modern usability. Connect Suede or Fusion Microtech upholstery replaces traditional leather. A 9.0-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen runs Google Built-in, integrating Google Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster displays driving data.

Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a charging pad come standard. The Ultra Black Edition adds a heated steering wheel and Harman Kardon audio. Cargo capacity measures 18.9 cu-ft, expanding to 49.4 cu ft with the rear seats folded. A small frunk of about 1 cu-ft adds extra storage.


Price Range and Best Value Trim

Trim LevelPrice
Base (cheapest): Single Motor Plus (RWD)$55,150
Top (most expensive): Twin Motor Ultra Black Edition (AWD)$60,850
Best value: Twin Motor Plus$56,900

The 2026 Volvo EX40’s price range spans three configurations. The Twin Motor Plus at $56,900 adds all-wheel drive and 402 hp to the Plus trim’s equipment list, which includes 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a surround-view camera, and Google Built-in. The Black Edition Ultra at $60,850 adds Harman Kardon audio, Pilot Assist, 20-inch black wheels, and heated rear seats.


Key Specs

Powertrain

ModelHPTorqueDrive0-60 MPH
Single Motor Plus248 hp310 lb-ftRWD6.9 sec
Twin Motor Plus402 hp494 lb-ftAWD4.4 sec

Both: 79-kWh battery, DC fast charge 10-80% ~28 min, NACS adapter standard.

Efficiency (MPGe)

ModelCityHighwayCombinedRange
EX40 Single Motor11894106296 mi
EX40 Twin Motor1038594260 mi

Dimensions

SpecDetail
Length / Width / Height174.8 in. / 75.2 in. / 65.2 in.
Seating5 passengers
Cargo Volume18.9 / 49.4 cu-ft (seats folded)
Frunk~1 cu-ft
Towing Capacity2,000 lbs

Warranty

CoverageTerm
Basic4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain4 years / 50,000 miles
EV Battery8 years / 100,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance2 years / 20,000 miles

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Single Motor’s 296-mile range covers most weekly commutes without charging
  • Twin Motor delivers 402 hp and 4.4-second 0-60 for genuine performance
  • Google Built-in provides native Maps, Assistant, and Play Store integration
  • 4 years of complimentary scheduled maintenance is class-leading
  • Sustainable interior materials reflect Volvo’s environmental commitment

Cons:

  • 2,000-pound towing capacity is below many electric SUV competitors
  • 18.9 cu-ft of rear cargo is modest for a compact SUV
  • No drive mode selection limits driver customization
  • Based on an aging platform dating to the 2019 XC40
  • Pricing above $55,000 faces stiff competition from larger EVs

Verdict

The EX40 packages the electric SUV formula into a compact and well-resolved shape. Its minimalist cabin, built-in Google ecosystem, and composed ride focus on ease of use in daily driving. The Twin Motor’s 402 hp adds strong acceleration when needed, though performance does not dominate the experience.

The Twin Motor Plus at $56,900 stands out as the most balanced option, combining all-wheel drive, solid equipment, and 260 miles of range. The Single Motor Plus at $55,150 trades outright performance for a longer 296-mile range that fits most daily routines.

For buyers who prioritize understated luxury, sustainable materials, and a straightforward ownership experience, the 2026 Volvo EX40 continues to deliver a calm, capable electric driving package.

2025-2026 Volvo EX40 in Sand Dune front view
2025-2026 Volvo EX40 in Sand Dune
https://www.volvocars.com/us/media/media-kits/2b8c779964c348aea982b36f0047677d/

Competitors:




About the author

Cobus F. Potgieter

Reviews and Features Editor

Cobus F. Potgieter is a Reviews and Features Editor at Autoblog covering new car reviews, and technology and historical features. He moved to motoring media full time in 2021 after a career as a public relations practitioner and joined The Arena Group in June 2025.