Volvo XC40, EX40 and EC40 updated with new styling, 11.2-inch screen and more safety tech

KUALA LUMPUR: Volvo has announced updates for the XC40, EX40 and EC40, covering exterior styling, cabin equipment and driver assistance systems. The changes include a larger touchscreen, Google Gemini and new sensors that support additional safety and parking functions.

Order books are opening in selected markets, including for Black Edition versions, with production scheduled to begin later this year. This is an international update, but no news yet for Malaysia unfortunately. 

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The most noticeable change up front is a new interpretation of Volvo’s Thor’s Hammer light signature, incorporated into Matrix LED headlights. Volvo also lists revisions to the grille, front bumper, bonnet and front wings as part of the exterior update.

At the back, the XC40 and EX40 get new LED taillights, a revised tailgate and a redesigned bumper. The coupe-shaped EC40 keeps its existing rear design.

The XC40 also receives new diamond-cut wheel designs in 18-, 19- and 20-inch sizes.

“By enhancing the design, technology and safety features of our 40 series cars, we've created the best versions of our 40 series yet,” says Akhil Krishnan, Interim lead for the 30 and 40 series at Volvo Cars. “These already popular models are now set to continue being among our best-selling cars for years to come.”

Bigger touchscreen and Google Gemini

Inside, the main change is a new 11.2-inch touchscreen running Volvo’s latest user interface. Volvo says the display is sharper and requires fewer taps to reach key functions, which should be more useful in daily driving than simply having a larger screen.

The updated models also feature Google Gemini. The AI assistant supports conversational requests for tasks such as planning a journey, finding places to stop and handling messages on the move.

There is an updated wireless phone charger too, alongside changes to upholstery, decorative trim and cabin lighting.

For the XC40, Arianne Cardamom leather upholstery becomes available for the first time, paired with Brown Ash wood trim. Volvo also lists Black Ash and aluminium decor options.

New sensors bring additional driver assistance functions

A sizeable part of the update concerns hardware that drivers will rarely notice directly: the cameras, radars and sensors used to monitor the car’s surroundings.

The revised setup includes new front and corner radars, a new front camera, new rear corner radars, 12 new ultrasonic sensors and new parking cameras. These work with an updated software platform to support the cars’ safety and driver assistance systems.

Volvo says the cars can warn the driver of a potential collision or intervene through automatic emergency braking and automatic emergency steering to help avoid a crash or reduce its severity.

Among the additions is Door Opening Alert, which warns occupants about passing traffic before they open a door. That includes cyclists approaching alongside the car.

The optional Pilot Assist system gains lane change assistance, with Volvo also claiming smoother support when following the road. Meanwhile, the optional 360-degree camera gains a 3D view for parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Both Pilot Assist and the 360-degree camera are listed as optional equipment, so buyers will need to check what is included in their market’s specification.

EX40 and EC40 range figures

For the fully electric models, Volvo quotes a maximum range of 575 km for the EX40 and 584 km for the EC40 on a single charge.

Volvo does does not detail changes to battery capacity, charging speeds or motor outputs, so these figures should be the same as the pre-updated model.

All three models support regular over-the-air updates, allowing Volvo to introduce software changes and additional features after delivery.

For Malaysian buyers, the remaining questions are when the updated XC40, EX40 and EC40 will arrive, which equipment will be included locally, and how much they will cost. Those details are not yet revealed by Volvo Car Malaysia.

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