2022 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD Inscription Review: Small, Smart, and Swanky

You want the world you know you have style? Get a Volvo. It oozes style out of every pore and does so with subtlety and class. Fortunately, style comes safely too, thanks to the multitudes of equipment on this XC40 small SUV. Driving dynamics and enthusiast enjoyment, however, is a different story.
In this video, I take you through the car, show you what features are offered and how they work. And then I take you on a drive to get a sense of how well it handles, the quality of the ride, and the overall experience.
Check out my website: funwithcars.com/
Video Chapters
0:00 Introduction and specifications
1:35 Walkaround
4:12 Storage space
5:00 Rear seat comfort and features
6:21 Front seat comfort and features
9:43 Drive modes/Center console Touchscreen
11:57 Drive review - Overview
12:41 Drive review - Powertrain
13:25 Drive review - Polestar Engineered
14:55 Drive review - Acceleration
16:15 Drive review - Handling
19:14 Drive review - Ride/Comfort/Highway
20:45 Drive review - Safety
21:14 Drive review - Towing specs
21:59 Drive review - Conclusion
Specifications:
2022 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD Inscription
Base price: $45,040
Price as tested: $52,845
Powertrain:
Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4
Power: 248 horsepower at 5500 rpm
Torque: 258 lb-ft of torque between 1800-4800 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
Drive: All-wheel-drive
Fuel Economy
City 22 mpg
Highway 30 mpg
Combined 25 mpg
Dimensions
Length: 174.2 inches
Width: 73.7 inches
Height: 65.3 inches (includes Antenna)
Wheelbase: 106.4 inches
Weights and Capacities
Curb weight: 3854 lbs (according to Car and Driver:
www.caranddriver.com/volvo/xc40)
Interior volume: 98 cu ft (according to fueleconomy.gov)
Cargo volume (seats up/down): 20/47 cu ft (according to Volvo)
Calculated weight to power: 15.5 pounds per horsepower
Mfr’s claimed 0-60 mph: 6.1 sec
Mfr’s claimed Top Speed: 112 mph
Government classified size: small sport utility vehicle 4WD
Options: 21-inch wheels, $3315; advanced package, $1450; Polestar performance, $1295; Harman Kardon sound system, $800; climate package, $750; Onyx Black Metallic paint, $695; roof spoiler, $395; power operated tailgate, $200
Recorded
13th of January 2022
Who is Robin Warner? - Brief description and bio
Robin spent five years of his adult life as an engineer. Four years at a Tier One supplier, TRW Automotive (now ZF TRW Auto), working as a traction and stability control calibration engineer, and little over a year as a vehicle dynamics engineer at Ford Motor Company.
Furthermore, he spent 15 years of his adult life holding different editor positions at various magazines, including Associate Technical Editor at Car and Driver, Road Test Editor at Road & Track, and Managing Editor at Autoweek.
Robin also spent several years racing. He started in autocross, then bought a go-kart and then another one. Having a lot of success, including a Great Lakes Sprint Series championship in 2002, he moved to single-seaters, racing in the 2003 Skip-Barber Midwest Championship, the 2003-2004 Skip Barber Southern Championship, and the 2004 Formula Dodge National Championship.
In addition to making videos, Robin hosts a podcast about major road racing series across the globe, with a focus on Formula 1. Find the show at funwithcars.com/
#VolvoXC40 #Crossover #Review

[@unexplainedwearenotalone3537]

Man I love Volvo no matter what I trust this company real car.

[@jmilla5450]

The tire size definitely has a lot to do with the drive. I have watched over 50 reviews on YT of this vehicle and over 19’ tires that’s when the ride changes. You probably need to do a different review with a different trim level and smaller tires. I ordered my 2022 XC 40 in December waiting on it to arrive right now. Wouldn’t have went with anything else. Thanks for the review.

[@viewsonvehicles]

That's not surprising to hear. Next time a XC40 comes my way, i'll see if I can run on the 19s

[@bens1221sop]

I have the 2021 t5 without the polestar and what I can only say about the gear shifting when accelerating from 0-60 mph, it feels like clutch driving when I use to own a stick vehicle. I really like my xc40. I am apprehensive about volvo's plan to go all EV by 2025. I hope they'd reconsider because I would like to trade mine in by 2025.

[@benjaminsmith2287]

All EVs by 2030. Half of their new auto sales by 2025. All all-new models introduced from now on will be EV only., They are still updating their current models in terms of added range to the hybrids and other mechanical refinements along with some minor cosmetic changes.

[@ebkesq72]

Regarding the body roll and other aspects of cornering, you were driving the Inscription, dude. The suspension is tuned for comfort. You should try the same course in a R-Design with the sport suspension.

[@31123fernando]

Hey Rob, you know when Volvo is gonna add full LED stop tail lights as well as LED turning lights?

[@viewsonvehicles]

Good question, I couldn't find anything on LED lights, but if I find something, I'll be sure to share.

[@cloud1stclass372]

My lease on a 2020 S60 is coming to an end soon. I’m seriously considering this car, but I’m a bit nervous by the shorter wheelbase. Does the cabin “feel” airy and roomy? That could be the game changer. I think it *looks* the part with the pano moonroof, but what do you think, personally?

[@viewsonvehicles]

I found the front seats plenty comfortable and spacious. The rear seats are a bit cramped for adults, but you get reasonable shoulder and elbow room. The seat bottom is a bit low, but legroom is good, considering. And, for reference, I am 5 feet 11 inches tall or 181 centimeters. To call it airy is a stretch in my opinion. I hope my answer is helpful.

[@cloud1stclass372]

@@viewsonvehicles That actually is very helpful. Thanks for the quick and detailed reply! Keep up the good work.

[@cmp7234]

When I test drove this car, it felt rather claustrophobic, especially the front cabin. It feels like the cockpit is pushing on you. Then I tried the skoda superb combi sportline, I immediately understood what you meant with “airy” and spacious :-).

[@cloud1stclass372]

@@cmp7234 Thanks for the insight, it’s much appreciated. 🙏🏻

[@MisterChris1978]

i am having the toughest time choosing between this specific model and the MB GLB 4Matic. i cannot make up my mind! help. looking to buy in the spring

[@viewsonvehicles]

Oh man. Like all things, it depends on your priorities. This Volvo no doubt looks cool. And I like the function of the portrait style center console touchscreen. However, the M-B drives better and that would sway me. But if driving feel isn’t a higher priority, the Volvo looks tempting. I hope that helps.

[@ghostboy929]

If you want to pay $300 for window wipers choose the MB.

[@jeffreystpierre6898]

10,000 too much we are getting xc hybrid,the base model is fine

[@sonora770]

Sorry Robin; "DARN DECENT" seems to me a meaningless opinion and tarnishes an otherwise darn decent review.

[@viewsonvehicles]

Well, that’s darn decent of you to say.