Ford Bronco vs Volvo XC40

Ford reintroduced the Bronco for the 2021 model year, and it’s been an exciting run ever since. Initial demand far outstripped supply, but Ford went ahead and added the more-capable Everglades and Raptor versions to the 2022 Bronco lineup. Heritage-inspired variants followed them up for 2023. Now, the 2024 Bronco adds a standard 12-inch Sync 4 infotainment system, a more rugged front bumper on the Bronco Badlands, and two new colors for the Bronco Raptor.

Verdict: In the summer of 2024, Ford is still clearing unsold 2023 Broncos from inventory, suggesting cooling demand for the rough and tough SUV. A federal investigation into V6 engine problems and poor fuel economy ratings aren’t helping to sell them. Nevertheless, there is plenty to love about the 2024 Ford Bronco.

In Volvo speak, “40” denotes an entry-level model. While the Swedish automaker no longer rosters the S40 sedan or V40 wagon in the United States, the XC40 subcompact crossover remains to compete with the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Lexus UX, and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class for aspiring luxury-car owners’ dollars.

The XC40 was unveiled in 2017, arriving in the U.S. as a 2019 model, and hasn’t undergone a redesign since. An all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge variant joined the lineup as a 2021 model. Volvo’s other current EV, the C40 Recharge, is also broadly similar to the XC40 models, but with a coupe-like body style.

For 2023, Volvo gave the XC40 several notable updates, including new mild-hybrid powertrains, revised styling, and the Android-based infotainment system previously seen on the XC40 Recharge and other Volvo models.

The mild-hybrid lineup includes base Core, mid-level Plus, and top Ultimate trim levels, with B4 front-wheel drive (FWD) and B5 all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrains. This Volvo XC40 review is based on the Ultimate trim in B5 AWD spec.