Volvo Car Korea's 2026 model of the XC40 will add a Dark theme. A small change aiming for a big difference.
Volvo Car Korea (CEO Lee Yun-mo) said on the 15th that it officially launched the 2026 XC40, which expands choices by adding the Dark theme.
Since its global launch in 2017, the XC40 is a global best-selling model that ranked No. 1 in premium compact SUV sales in the highly competitive European market for four consecutive years starting in 2020. In Korea, it sold a total of 1,932 units from January through September 2025, ranking first in total imported compact SUV sales by single trim and showing a clear presence in the imported SUV market.
For the 2026 XC40, the top Ultra trim will offer a new Dark exterior theme in addition to the existing Bright theme. Along with this, Scandinavian design reflecting the human-centric philosophy, state-of-the-art safety technologies and premium convenience features comparable to flagship models, and industry-leading infotainment services are standard across all trims.
The exterior of the 2026 XC40 continues the Scandinavian design philosophy while boasting a distinctive and strong presence anywhere. The front and rear bumper designs containing the brand identity and the more refined front pixel LED headlamps deliver a sophisticated image. Exterior color options now include the new Aurora Silver, bringing the total to six colors (Cloud Blue, Crystal White, Onyx Black, Denim Blue, Vapor Gray, Aurora Silver), and the top Ultra trim offers a choice of Bright or Dark themes.
The Dark theme replaces existing chrome details with black high-gloss finishes to create a more dynamic, modern and luxurious image. The 20-inch 5-double-spoke black diamond-cut wheels, available only with the Dark theme, emphasize the XC40's dynamic and stylish image.
The interior, reflecting the human-centric philosophy, showcases creative use of space. The interior is designed to let the driver focus on driving, giving the feeling of using a personal study, and practical storage is maximized with various compartments in the doors, center console and under the front seats. In the Ultra trim, luxury conveniences that let you experience Swedish premium are standard, including Drift Wood, Harman Kardon premium sound system, Orrefors® crystal gear knob, and advanced air purification system.
The 2026 XC40 applies Volvo's next-generation user experience, Volvo Car UX, along with connectivity developed with TMAP Mobility. Based on Qualcomm's next-generation Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform, it offers fast responsiveness, and the 9-inch touchscreen center display and 12.3-inch driver display intuitively present information the driver needs depending on the situation.
It also includes TMAP Auto, which has the country's best map data, NUGU Auto, an in-car AI platform with an average Korean recognition rate of more than 96%, the TMAP Store supporting various third-party apps, and Naver's in-car Whale browser. Through these, occupants can enjoy various in-car entertainment content such as OTT services including WAVVE, TVING, Coupang Play, SPOTV; social media such as Instagram, Facebook, Threads; music streaming services such as FLO, Melon, YouTube Music; and Naver Webtoon and e-books.
Although the 2026 XC40 is an entry-level model within Volvo Cars, it is equipped with many of Volvo's advanced safety technologies identical to the flagship 90 cluster. It comes standard with Driver Assistance, the highest-level safety package based on the latest advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) composed of radar, camera and ultrasonic sensor arrays, and supports advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot alert and steering assist, intersection alert and emergency braking support, rear cross-traffic alert and rear collision warning, Pilot Assist, and adaptive cruise control.
The 2026 XC40 will be offered with a 48V mild-hybrid (B4, MHEV) that produces a maximum output of 197 horsepower. The sales trims are Plus and top Ultra, differentiated by some convenience features such as wheel size, 360-degree camera, and Harman Kardon premium sound system, and the Ultra trim can choose between Bright and Dark exterior themes.
Domestic prices are set at ▲B4 AWD Plus Bright 51.90 million won ▲B4 AWD Ultra Bright 54.90 million won ▲B4 AWD Ultra Dark 55.20 million won, and full-scale vehicle deliveries will be carried out sequentially during October. Industry-leading benefits are also standard, including a 5-year or 100,000 km general parts warranty and consumables exchange service, an 8-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty, 15 years of free over-the-air (OTA) updates, and a 5-year digital service package subscription.
Lee Yun-mo, CEO of Volvo Car Korea, said, "The XC40 is a best-selling model that has become the standard for premium compact SUVs, recognized not only globally but also in the domestic market," and added, "We expect the 2026 XC40, which has the most complete form of product appeal and adds the Dark theme, to meet the demands of various customers."
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