2026 Volvo XC40 B5 AWD: Compact SUV for Urban Ontario Driving

The 2026 Volvo XC40 B5 AWD serves as Volvo's entry point into the SUV segment, offering a compact footprint paired with all-wheel drive capability and mild hybrid technology. For drivers in Hamilton and across Ontario, the XC40 provides a practical alternative to larger SUVs, delivering urban manoeuvrability without sacrificing interior space or safety features.

This five-seat compact SUV measures 4,440 mm in length, making it well-suited for city parking while maintaining sufficient cargo capacity for weekend trips and daily errands. The B5 mild hybrid powertrain balances performance with fuel efficiency, using a 48-volt system to assist the turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

B5 Mild Hybrid Powertrain

The XC40 B5 uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 247 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. An integrated starter generator (ISG) provides 13 additional horsepower at 3,300 rpm, assisting during acceleration and recovering energy during braking.

This 48-volt mild hybrid system stores recovered energy in a compact battery. The stored energy supplements the gasoline engine during acceleration, reducing the load on the engine and improving fuel efficiency. The system operates transparently, requiring no driver intervention or mode selection.

Power routes through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. The all-wheel drive system distributes torque between the front and rear axles based on traction conditions, providing improved grip on wet or snow-covered Ontario roads.

Fuel Economy and Range

Fuel consumption measures 10.1 L/100 km in city driving, 7.8 L/100 km on highways, and 9.1 L/100 km in combined conditions. The 54-litre fuel tank provides approximately 593 kilometres of combined driving range between fill-ups.

The mild hybrid system contributes to fuel savings by allowing the engine to shut off during coasting and deceleration, restarting smoothly when the driver applies throttle. This start-stop functionality operates more seamlessly than conventional systems due to the 48-volt architecture.

Dimensions and Interior Space

The XC40's compact exterior dimensions translate to efficient use of urban parking spaces while maintaining usable interior volume.

Exterior Measurements

• Length: 4,440 mm
• Width: 1,863 mm (body), 2,034 mm (including mirrors)
• Height: 1,652 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,702 mm
• Ground clearance: 205 mm

The 205 mm ground clearance provides adequate clearance for speed bumps, curbs, and light snow accumulation without the height of larger SUVs. The 2,702 mm wheelbase positions the wheels at the corners of the vehicle, maximizing interior space relative to overall length.

Interior Room

Front seat passengers benefit from 1,040 mm of legroom and 991 mm of headroom (without panoramic roof) or 955 mm with the optional panoramic roof. Rear passengers have 917 mm of legroom and 994 mm of headroom (974 mm with panoramic roof).

Shoulder width measures 1,440 mm in the front and 1,429 mm in the rear, providing comfortable space for adult passengers on longer trips. Hip room of 1,390 mm front and 1,388 mm rear allows three adults to sit across the rear seat when necessary.

Cargo Capacity and Storage

The XC40 offers flexible cargo arrangements suitable for varying load requirements.

With the rear seats in place, the cargo area accommodates three large suitcases plus a cabin bag. The load floor sits 755 mm above ground level, a height that balances easy loading with ground clearance requirements.

Folding the 60/40 split rear seats creates a flat load floor extending from the tailgate to the front seatbacks. The absence of a loading lip simplifies moving larger items in and out of the cargo area.

Additional Storage

Separate storage compartments throughout the vehicle provide 49 litres of additional space for smaller items:

• Under-floor storage in the cargo area
• Door pockets front and rear
• Centre console storage
• Glove compartment

The power tailgate includes programmable height settings, useful when parking in garages with limited overhead clearance. Hands-free operation activates by moving a foot beneath the rear bumper when carrying items.

Safety Systems

The XC40 includes Volvo's suite of collision avoidance and occupant protection features as standard equipment.

Collision Avoidance

• City Safety: Detects vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals ahead, providing warnings and automatic emergency braking
• Oncoming Lane Mitigation: Applies steering corrections to prevent drifting into oncoming traffic
• Lane Keeping Aid: Guides the vehicle back toward the centre of the lane during unintended drift
• Run-Off Road Mitigation: Detects when the vehicle is leaving paved surfaces and applies corrective steering

Blind Spot and Parking Assistance

• BLIS (Blind Spot Information System): Monitors adjacent lanes and provides steering corrections when the driver signals with another vehicle in the blind spot
• Cross Traffic Alert: Detects approaching vehicles when reversing from parking spaces
• Park Assist: Front, rear, and side sensors detect obstacles during low-speed manoeuvres
• Rear-view camera: Displays the area behind the vehicle when shifting into reverse

Adaptive Cruise and Steering Assist

Pilot Assist combines adaptive cruise control with lane centring steering assistance. The system maintains set speed and following distance while providing gentle steering inputs on highways with clear lane markings. The system operates between 0 and 180 km/h, functioning in both highway and stop-and-go traffic.

Google Built-in Technology

The XC40 integrates Google services directly into the vehicle's infotainment system, independent of smartphone connectivity.

Core Google Services

Google Maps: Provides navigation with real-time traffic information, automatic rerouting, and detailed point-of-interest data. The system displays directions on both the 9-inch centre touchscreen and digital driver display.

Google Assistant: Responds to voice commands for navigation requests, phone calls, climate adjustments, and media control. Activated by saying "Hey Google," the system processes natural language rather than requiring specific command phrases.

Google Play: Provides access to compatible automotive applications including media streaming services and audio content providers.

Data and Connectivity

Volvo includes four years of data service with new vehicles, covering all navigation, voice assistance, and application data requirements. The Volvo Cars app extends connectivity by providing:

• Remote locking and unlocking
• Cabin pre-conditioning (heating or cooling)
• Vehicle location services
• Service scheduling

Suspension and Handling

The XC40 uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension. This configuration provides a balance between ride comfort on rough pavement and handling stability during cornering.

The electric power-assisted steering adjusts effort based on vehicle speed, providing lighter steering during parking manoeuvres and increased resistance at highway speeds. The steering ratio of 15.8:1 requires 2.7 complete rotations lock-to-lock.

Turning circle measurements of 11.4 metres curb-to-curb and 11.8 metres wall-to-wall indicate the XC40's manoeuvrability in tight spaces—a practical advantage in urban parking lots and narrow residential streets.

Wheel and Brake Options

The XC40 B5 AWD accommodates 17-inch wheels as standard, with optional upgrades available. Brake disc diameters measure 322 mm front and 302 mm rear, with front discs 28 mm thick and rear discs 12 mm thick.

The braking system includes ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (electronic brake distribution), and EBA (electronic brake assistance). These systems work together to optimize braking force distribution and maintain steering control during emergency stops.

Towing Capacity

When properly equipped, the XC40 can tow up to 1,600 kg with a braked trailer or 750 kg unbraked. This capacity accommodates small utility trailers, light camping trailers, or recreational equipment trailers suitable for weekend activities.

Climate Control

The standard two-zone climate system allows driver and front passenger to set independent temperature preferences. The air quality system includes a pollen filter and monitors outside air quality, activating higher filtration when needed.

An optional four-zone climate system extends independent temperature control to rear seat passengers, useful for families with varying comfort preferences.

Audio System Options

Three audio configurations accommodate different priorities:

High Performance Audio

• 10 speakers
• 6 channels
• 220W output

Harman Kardon Premium Sound

• 14 speakers including air-ventilated subwoofer
• 12 channels
• 600W output

Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity Audio (if available for XC40)

• Premium speaker configuration with advanced sound processing

Interior Features and Materials

The XC40 interior uses durable materials selected for longevity in daily use. Standard textile upholstery provides breathability, while optional leather upholstery adds visual refinement.

Heated front seats come standard, warming seat cushions and backrests during cold Ontario winters. Power adjustment for both front seats includes lumbar support to accommodate different body types and driving positions.

The panoramic sunroof extends across both rows, allowing natural light throughout the cabin. A power sunshade provides coverage when direct sunlight becomes uncomfortable.

Key Specifications Summary

Visit Volvo Cars Hamilton

The 2026 Volvo XC40 B5 AWD provides compact SUV practicality with Volvo's safety features and Google built-in connectivity. Visit our team at Volvo Cars Hamilton in Hamilton to explore the XC40's interior space, test the B5 mild hybrid powertrain, and learn how this compact SUV fits your urban and suburban driving needs.