Volvo XC40, EX40 and EC40 update: screen, sensors, driver aids and range

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Volvo has extensively updated the XC40, EX40 and EC40: the models get an 11.2-inch screen, new radars, cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. The EX40 and EC40 are rated at up to 575 km and 584 km of range respectively.

Twelve new ultrasonic sensors are arguably a more important change to the updated Volvo XC40, EX40 and EC40 than the new interpretation of the “Thor’s Hammer” light signature. Volvo is not calling this a new generation, but it is substantially reworking the hardware behind the driver-assistance systems: there are new front and corner radars, a forward-facing camera, rear corner radars and new parking cameras. Orders are already open in selected markets, with production due to begin later this autumn.

All three models receive new Matrix LED headlights, a revised grille, bonnet, front wings and bumper. The XC40 and EX40 also get redesigned rear lights, tailgate and rear bumper, while the EC40 retains its existing rear-end treatment. New 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheel designs are available for the XC40.

The change is even more obvious inside. The current 9-inch centre display is replaced by an 11.2-inch screen, roughly 24% larger on the diagonal. Current official XC40 and EX40 product pages still list the previous 9-inch display, so this is a hardware replacement rather than merely another OTA software update.

The new sensor platform also expands the driver-assistance functions. Door Opening Alert warns occupants before a door is opened if a cyclist or another road user is approaching. The optional Pilot Assist can now help with lane changes and provides smoother lane positioning, while the 360-degree camera can generate a three-dimensional view when parking.

Google Gemini is part of the updated package too, but it is not exclusive to the refreshed 40 Series. Volvo announced on April 30 that the AI assistant would be rolled out progressively to cars with Google built-in from model year 2021; in some regions, vehicles built from 2020 are covered. Volvo’s official information confirms that availability depends on the car and the market.

The electric EX40 and EC40 are quoted in the global announcement with preliminary ranges of up to 575 km and 584 km respectively. National figures already differ: at the time of checking, the German configurator lists up to 573 km for the EX40 and 583 km for the EC40, while a recent German press release gives the updated EX40 up to 576 km. A difference of a few kilometres should therefore not be presented as a confirmed technical gain; it may reflect market specification, rounding or data updates rather than a proven change in battery capacity or efficiency.

The hardware upgrade to the sensor suite comes alongside continued development of software-based safety features. New Volvo cars can already use Connected Safety to receive warnings about crashes, animals and roadworks before the vehicle’s own cameras can see the hazard. With the XC40, EX40 and EC40, Volvo is now also upgrading the cars’ own ability to observe their surroundings.

Volvo has not announced one global price list for the updated range, and equipment will vary by market. National subsidiaries are already beginning to publish local prices, however: Germany, for example, has announced prices for the updated XC40 and EX40. Those figures cannot simply be transferred to other countries, so buyers should rely on the specifications and configurators for their own market.