Honda Odyssey vs Volvo XC40

If you are a minivan aficionado like we are, then you know that the 2022 Honda Odyssey is the most enjoyable one to drive. It has that light, effortless, responsive driving character that Honda bakes into every one of its cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans. But you also know that the Odyssey’s rivals are successfully outflanking it in terms of stylish design, all-weather capability, electrified efficiency, infotainment technology, and outright luxury.

In response to these new threats, Honda makes no changes to the 2022 Odyssey. Good thing its “original recipe” approach remains pretty tasty.

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.