Yeah. Somethings are just so much better with physical buttons. I'm waiting for a digital button for the indicator lights 🤣 Probably easy to install on BMW 🤣
I totally agree that the pilot assist must come back! It would have been nice if they had given all the buttons on the steering wheel one more layer. For instance with pressing both left arrow on left side, and skip forward on right side simultaneity that it would have activated a "shift" function for 5 seconds or so. Then you could have had another layer under the functions that is there by default.. nice if this could be customized by the user what "shift" function each button should have...
Nice video 👍 Now two years with mine and I like this car a lot. Was unlucky with t2 engine. First, high oil consumption required dealer intervention to pistons and turbo. Now engine often gets stuck around 3500 rpm in 4th gear or higher, when accelerating, can’t take more torque, and shifts up or enters turtle mode. Hope to get it fixed over the coming holidays.
@NOELLE YANG Owned what? I've owned a bunch of Volvo's. Both with Sensus system and the Android system. Also driven nanny many thousand kilometres with different Android presscars. So much experience
Kristen: Thank you for your video analysis. It is very accurate. I once drove an XC60, Volvo dealer loaner and had to pull off the road to change a radio station. I am in my mid-70s and find the display information on the speedometer panel and the center screen, too difficult to read, due to the small numbers. My 2000 V70 XC had a very clear dash display, and I could change settings without my eyes leaving the road. My present 2012 XC70 is alright but hard to read at times. The fog light switches are very small and hard to find by touch. Considering that Volvo is safety conscious, I believe its designers must completely redesign the dash modules a on all of its models. We have 4 Volvos and the older cars have better ergonomics. Thank you.
I like when he says maybe he'll need anger management after this. It's a great review because it's genuine anger at the inconveniences introduced by non-car people. I hope Volvo watches this and makes the changes to include what they already had in their previous cars. This is the kind of review that helps makes the product better.
I really love my xc40 T5 AWD. I dislike missing real buttons for camera (i have a narrow exit at my home with nearly no view on people walking or biking. Used to use front cam for these situations. My Volvo hasn't a physical button, though our BMW iX3, Hyundai Ionic 5 and Volkswagen Touareg have a button. Volvo let's take me several steps on screen. Not safe.) And the showstopper: I almost ordered a new full electric one. I cancelled. Why? I love to use the pilot Assist funcion. For me a live saver. I use it all the time. Switching between steer assist on the highway and bigger roads and back to ACC in towns, exits etc. I'm not going to buy a car were i have to do this on screen. Not going to happen. Of course, our car from Bayern and the one from Korea did choose to use physical buttons. So i totally agree with the video. Very annoying and unsafe is that tge function for speed limit us sometimes accidentally set via the steering wheel wile turning it. I will never use the function, now its only annoying me. Last one: i would like my car to remember the last drive mode setting. Now it automatically returns to the comfort settings. I still love my current Volvo! Happiest car I ever had.
Thank you for your review. I just tested an XC40 B3 (mild hybrid). Wont comment on mechancis, which were excellent, but FULLY agree with your point on lighting. I alos live in the countryside, with no street lighting, and you definitely NEED the lowest dash lighting you can get. Was also hugely disappointed to see that now, it is no longer possible to switch off the center screen totally, as was feasible with the former models. And worse, that the crystal gear lever is lit from the inside - and impossible to switch off ! Feels like a torchlight inside the car… Was very disappointed by android as well, compared to the old Sensus. One more problem - when connectivity disappears … you lose your guidance (or can’t start planning a trip). Volvo has become just another “gadget” brand. All in all, it cost Volvo the sale of this car. A true pity. I hope they realize their mistake soon and fix it.
Yeah, it's really weird how cut down the Android Automotive apps are compared to their phone versions. I ran into the same thing my first trip out regarding Maps and multiple destinations, except I couldn't even figure it out at the time. It's so easy to do on the phone though! TH-cam Music is also missing so much stuff. For example, when searching for an artist, you only can see 3 or so albums. There does not appear to be an option to view all, so if you were wanting to look through what was available, you are out of luck. Yet again, the phone interface has no issues with this. I hope they work to try to enable some of these missing features. Completely agree on the tailored wool though. It's so comfortable!
It’s interesting I test drove an XC40 way back in 2017 or so and found the sensus system to be absolutely horrendous (after having driven bmw for a decade). However now I’ve ordered a fully electric XC40 and it having the google system was a big part of my decision.
Hey! I agree with you totaly. Both the light adjustment and Pilot assist. I jused it often in my last xc60 d4 awd 2019. Now with mycket new xc40 P6 2023 I'm so annoyed and irritated over the whole new infotainment system. It's just not Volvo anymore and so much worse than before.
I drive a 2019 Kinetic one (the cheapest end least well equipped) - and it has automatic cluster brightness adjustment. But for the rest, yes, the infotainment is less than ideal. But, as I see, I can be happy to have the old one in my car.
Thanks Kristian, great points worth noting in there. Did Volvo made an update about these issues? or possible that they will be addressing it in the near future? Thanks heaps!
My take: 1. Not that important. 2. Can't believe they have done that. It surely must have been an oversight in an update because they KNOW the buttons are there. They put them there! 3. Generally speaking, preferring a map system that requires an external device and multiple steps to get updated and is as clunky to use as the Sensus is over a system that I can use in cross-platforms (I am an Android user. If I search for a destination in my phone and the time to get there to know when to leave home, it will be the first option to appear in the search box in the car system when I actually start the trip), that preference can only come from someone who is not yet fully adapted to Google Maps. As for the "Search this area" problem, it must be a bug in that particular version of Google Maps, because it is not how it works.
i totally agree the route navigation is totally useless specially when you want to charge somewhere. Another thin that is more ammoying is that we can't see when he is pre-heated for charging
I just got my C40 recharge - still have my beloved XC60 T5 for a few weeks ;) - and one of the first things i missed, were the ones you mentioned in your video (I have to add, that I'm missing the Active High Beam, too). I'm pretty disappointed that Volvo has given up on these usefull features.
Love your videos Kristian! Fully agree with you from a safety standpoint But could these features be done via voice command ? - I saw in a video that 1 pedal driving can be enabled/disabled via voice command (our XC40 Twin is on order) One last question: Why the XC40 and not Polestar 2? I live in France where Polestar was banned at the time I placed the order (logo issue with Citroen)
Hello. Great to hear 👍 Sadly these functions can't be activated/deactivated with voice command. There's mann pros and cons with these cars. And they have their own strengths, but the strongest XC appeal for me are following. Compared to Polestar 2. Increased practicality, more interior storage, opening sunroof, slightly better ground clearance and a more comfortable ride
I just tried this morning in my 2023 XC40 Recharge to add a stop along the destination. It appears that one can now search for places along the route by typing, and not only by voice. It's still not possible to rearrange the order of the stops.
Thank you for your feedback. Another problem : No connection between Google Maps on my android phone and Google Maps on y car. Just the last destinations in the history. that's all. We should be able to prepare the trip on our phone, add the intermediate destinations, exchange between 2 destinations and then push the trip on google maps of our cars. It's not possible. And when you used google maps on your phone, and google maps with the same account on your car : there's not pop up like in youtube when you use it on your phone and on your tv at home. TH-cam put a warning : "do you want to synchronise the two devices on the same video?" My car doesn't ask the question... No link between the two devices. When I ordered my electric xc40, I said "Yes, google in may car, it will be a good user experience!!" But I'm very disappointed. We just have google maps on the car and no connection with our mobile... And full of faults as you mention in this video.
Understand your frustrations. But I only ever set my illumination once in 5 years. Agree about the steering assist and unused buttons on steering. Now, Google maps ... I get my XC40 next week and will test all this ...but ... I make multiple stops in a day and plan them on my laptop which then sends to my phone which I currently project by Android Auto. I am hoping that the pre-planning will send to the car Android Automotive and display on the main screen ... and then suggest charging stops. We will see. I like the look of the wool, but I really hate that Crystal drive selector - give me the stock black one😁
Hej Kristian, Super video on XC40. Do you experience a screeching brake noise whenever you slowly release the brake from stationary point such as Traffic lights, basement parking ramp, when bumper to bumper traffic, the noise is big nuisance while makes whole body ralttles. Volvo saying its operational noise. I am ok when the disc is rusted, corroded, or not used more many months. I have seen in just 10km, 5000km, 62000 kms XC40/XC60 vehicles. Pls share your experience.
This is my first Volvo, and something I don’t see people talk about is the passenger seat knob to recline the seat back for trips. My old Honda civic had a lever that immediately reclined back, and immediately spring forward to sit upright. I do have a Core with leather seats, heat warmers, and adjustable lumbar all electric…WHY this knob?! Is it just the Core trim?
Some items I don't like about the XC40: * Brake-lights and rear turning- lights should be LED! * No ceiling-grips in the back!? * Rear door panels are different from the front and look very plastic and cheap...
Looking forward to the tailored wool video. I am getting a XC40 recharge in a few weeks but with black interior, only because it was a cancelled order that I snapped up. I really like the look of the wool interior but I am curious about the stain resistance and the potential of looking dingy over time. The Tesla white interior is known to be very good in this respect but of course it is a totally different material, so I'd love to know how much of an issue this is with the Volvo wool. Perhaps you can do us a solid and dump a cup of coffee or some chocolate cake on the seat just for our benefit? Sure you will get a lot of views with that content!!!
Hehe 🤣🤣 I've actually thought about that for a while. Spilling coke or chocolate 🤣 Have to get it approved by Volvo Cars if I want to do it on their presscars.. but it's on my mind
I get my xc40 next week anf the pilot assist is just stupid as you say. For me, what´s more frustrating is the lack of drivers journal. I use the car alot for work so that will be a bummer.
It can be corrected by software update, the programming can be change and use those buttons for convenience. Sometimes there’s a hack on pressing buttons just to activate some functions 😂
Hey. Thanks for the video. I watched dozens of reviews and almost all of them neglected the downsides of XC40. I was testing XC40 in the past few days and I was massively disappointed. Especially I love the Volvo brand, my old S40 (2012) and really wanted to continue my car journey with Volvo. I agree with you about the overall user experience. I guess it's a matter of personal preference, but I really don't like the trend of moving all of the functionalities to the tablet. Dimming the interior lights is one of them (although never used it frequently). But things like air conditioning, seats heating... They are used quite often and pressing the right button on the tablet while driving on bumpy roads is always a challenge. I'm not even commenting on removing the pilot assist from the buttons on the wheel... The voice steering is also annoying. I was finding myself repeating the command 2 or 3 times because it either misunderstood me or I misspelled something. Even more annoying that you cannot stop the procedure if you already know you said something incorrectly and command is not going to work. You need to let Google analyse it, inform you that it didn't understand and only then you can try again. The simple thing like turning the heating takes 5-15 seconds and could take 1 sec if there was a button or knob. Memorising the voice commands is another issue. Not sure about English but in Polish Google e.g. understands "stop navigation" but cannot understand "cancel navigation". Discovering all of the working / not working variations is a steep and frustrating learning curve. The whole Android Automotive looks like it was unfinished, and released too early due to the deadlines. My biggest fear is that they will never patch the issues and the users will end up with half baked product that won't be developed anymore once Volvo releases new car models (the same way as e.g. smart watches lifecycle). There's also another thing that I cannot understand. I'm very tall (203cm) and I was looking for a crossover/suv where I can fit well (holding my arms on the armrests comfortably). Only Volvo XC40 and Mazda CX30 fulfil that requirement. Volvo allows to move back my seat so far that I can almost stretch my legs (which is fantastic), but a steering wheel is so distant that I'd have to have chimpanzee arms to hold it. Seriously - why the heck did they allow to move the seat so much if a driver cannot reach a steering wheel? Also steering wheel is quite small and I had to hold it in unnatural tight position. Not sure about wool, but leather seats are very hard, I can almost feel the texture of the seat scaffolding. Overall XC40 is beautiful, but lacks of ergonomics :(
@@volvo_kristian I understand. I’m the same 😂 but heard that could be a long range version of the XC40 in MY24. Not sure if it’s true though or only a rumour.
Hei, Var i kontakt med Volvo Norge ang. det med pilot assist. De hadde meldt i fra til Volvo Sentralt. Men jeg er ikke jammen meg ikke sikker på at det hjelper 😢 Har du hørt noe mer?
Hei. Ja har hørt svært mange har klaget på dette. Fordelt over alle modellene. Gjelder tross alt alle Volvo's med Android. Volvo fjernet dette via OTA, mens Polestar fremdeles har det på rattet. Eneste jeg har hørt er at hvis mange nok klager så kommer det tilbake.
Did you notice an electrical buzzing sound coming from the front when the topography lights are on? I just got a brand new xc40 2023 recharge with ultimate package and I have this sound. Also saw many people complain about this issue on new xc40’s with topography decor.
i also am pissed especially for pilot assist buttons so what you would suggest how to make a complain and make it effecitve, where to make those complains about it
Hm interesting video, I wonder what is ‚your‘ reason to go for the XC40 and not the XC60? Only because it‘s a full electric car? I have the C40 Recharge Twin Ultimate and happy that it‘s just the CbV abo, so I only have to keep it for 3 months. I am so annoyed about the vibrations in steering wheel between 100-120 km/h (Volvo doesn‘t care), the buzzing noise of the ambience lighting, which is so annoying I had to switch it off (again, Volvo doesn‘t care), the bad headlights (thx to Pixel-LED not available right now), and these standard LED lights are so so bad, for a car of about 65k€. What I like though is the interior, the comfort, the power. But I can get this from ‚real‘ premium cars as well. My first Volvo and my last Volvo.
Hello. Just to be totally clear. The XC60 are a much more superior car than XC40. The whole 60 series are a step up. 90 series are several steps up. Volvo's 40 series aren't premium cars compared to their 60 and 90 range. So if I could choose freely I wouldn't go XC40. If you want sweet luxury the V90 or S90 are magical. I'm picking XC40 only because of the powertrain. Want/need a electric car. Yes I'm a huge fan of the XC40 exterior. The cool and urban style, but I'm motivated by lower running costs. Fuel are expensive and there's a high road tax on non electric cars..
@@volvo_kristian i see, hopefully there will be more electric cars from Volvo soon, so for example XC60 as BEV. I also wouldn‘t go back to combustion engine.
I bought new one xc 40 b3 mild hybrid 2 months ago. Straight away I have issues with kers system. Service changed few components due to noise while braking. Now latest they ordered ISGM Module and problem takes 2months and still ongoing. Not to mention their customer service isnt the best either. Bad experience so far. Will be my last volvo for sure.
I bought b3 mild hybrid and I have problem when braking is making strange noise from time to time. In service they saiy it is kers emotor. What a damn shame brand new car from factory to have issue like that. Volvo quality and reliability really?
The biggest thing for me so far has been the lack of Android Auto support. As android automotive supports so few apps e.g.Waze - sometimes I need android auto from my phone. Or a guest might borrow my car and want to use their android auto.
@@0tispunkm3y3r yeh. The app exists now for android auto apparently. But Volvo haven't allowed it as of yet. Emailing them they say it's not yet planned....
I have owned at least 10 different cars that had the brightness adjustment and I always set it to one brightness and forget it. This problem is mostly your own preference... I tested the XC40 twin and liked it a lot but went with EQC 400 in the end. Down here Volvo has a bad rep as a hillbilly wagon lol.
Guess you don't live in the Nordic countries? Here the wheel are a super convenient part. A part that I loved. And also good for safety. Everything in all my videos and such are own preferences 👍 Always my opinions. On good and bad 🤣 What country are you from by the way?
10mins in and you're still complaining about dimming the lights...how many people actually change that multiple times per day like you? I think most people set it once and leave it.
Hehe 🤣🤣 Did you even see the 10 minutes? The part where I talk about the lights only lasts 3 minutes. And I guess you don't live in Norway 🤣 Have a great day
@@volvo_kristian yeh...this video is Titled what you hate. And the first thing you talk about hating is the internal lighting brightness control? 10mins in and that's as far as you've got.
Most of the screen functions are now voice controlled so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road and the new Android system does that much better than the old system. That and the far superior Google maps are the main reasons Volvo switched to android.
Many functions can be done by voice, but not the ones I'm talking about here. (Beside maybe the light adjustment). Well superior and superior. As I said in the video the maps are fine, but it's way less functionality than Volvo's previous system
Very interesting video Kristian, I saw your past videos some months ago in which you already compared Sensus and Android showing lacks of physical buttons like drive mode selector for instance, and other problems like poor display information or customization. I totally agree with you (and for this I preferred to buy another XC40 my22 instead of a My23 in April..), but you didn't mention two other things that in my opinion are more serious: first one, the fact that Google Services are included for only the first 4 years of the car, then you have to pay a sum that in this moment we don't know to renew, otherwise some functions stop working (Google Assistant for instance, and so what the heck happens with vocal commands? Still work or not?); it will be very useful for every new buyer to know this things BEFORE buying the car, not AFTER 4 years... can you please give us more info about it and especially about the renew costs? Some months ago in the XC60 Price list it was like 900€ for other 3 years if I remember well (that in my opinion is absolutely huge cost), then Volvo took it away and now there isn't any information. Apart from the fact that for me is totally absurd to pay anything for a fundamental part of the car that you already payed when you bought the car, but this is my thought... then another big lack was the impossibility to read and play music from USB pen, so only from internet (and what if you loose connection in some zones?)... maybe that now they have fixed this OTA or not? Thanks and cheers from Italy!
Yeah, as I said it depends where your coming from. These are my opinions. I care about physical buttons you could operate on muscle memory. Not having to take your eyes off the roads. Well well. We like different things
Now had m XC40 for 2 weeks The only really bad thing - and this is really bad ... Reversing light illumination is poor. Living rural with no street lighting and select reverse I can not see anything in the mirrors and the camera screen is a car surrounded by pitch black. The reversing lights need to be much brighter
You could have made this video so much longer you barely scratched the surface. I agree I love the design and styling alot chich is why bought mine. But here's my list: #1 Trip / odometer is so confusing...why not just stick with what works? #2 The maintenance tab in the infotainment....why is the tpms data not shown? Am I too stupid to understand tire pressure?? Little green circles doesn't make me feel better show me the data. Why is that hard to understand? #3 on my 2023 xc40 mild hybrid, why can't I turn off the traction control or vehicle stability control? Every other car I've driven has these on/off controls. #4. Rear seats don't have the ability to recline or adjust in any way #5 coat hooks in the rear. Why not supply them with the car? Seems silly to have to buy those separately #6 No heated wipers....aren't these made in Sweden? #7 it's an adventure vehicle I think a cargo hitch should come standard....but that's a small complaint
I’m just going to buy an xc90 t8 2023…I’m indecisive about picking it up from the dealer. I’m already driving a beautiful V90 CC d5 2019, with driving modes wheel selector, lights dimming button and sensus navigation, that btw was already working with google maps, especially when you use your phone Volvo App to send destinations to your car. I’m really indecisive about picking up a new one…I might just buy a 2021 for 30% less and at least the old good sensus. Is legit to spend more than 100k swiss francs and then have two buttons on the steering wheel that serves as garnishing? 😢 I love Volvos…My dream as a child was to drive one…but nowadays we’re living in dark ages. How can we as consumer let our voices speak out louder?
Maybe that works for you. But for me it's a useless decision removing physical buttons and putting it into the touchscreen. Much better with the adjustment wheel
I just got the petrol version and it's underpowered and slow. The car feels cramped and choppy. It looks great and I like the tech, but I prefer a much faster roomier car. I bet the electric version is much faster.
What engine did you go for? Didn't you testdrive it before purchase? I would gladly take a petrol version over a electric one. Speed aren't everything, but yeah it's blistering fast 🔥
@@volvo_kristian I got the Momentum with the smaller engine. I test drove it and it was fine, but I didn't go up hills. I think I would rather the electric over the gas. Blistering fast sounds very appealing.
Swedish are NERDS and I admire them, unfortunately the passion that comes from experiences of driving and the daily functionality of a car can't be solved on a computer or paper.
I think most of these are not pain points... Most settings in cars should be set while its stationery or as default settings. I don't see why people need to connect smartphones and have them fully functional on a car infotainment...🤔😌
One rason is when You don't pay for a online service plan like the 4 years included on this car. U already have internet on your phone and google maps, so just connect it to the infotainment system and you're a go. But not in this volvo ;)
you are bitching about the lights on the dash and console lighting intensity?, 1st world problems dude, I drive from Fagernes (innlandet) to Oslo a couple times a week, ALL year (early morning and early evening when dark periods at high in the winter months), look at the road not the car interior
Hahaha 🤣🤣 and you are bitching about my personal opinion about a car.. You don't have to agree 🤣 Easier to just accept that we have different preferences.. If the lights doesn't bother you then that's great. If you even own the same car. We all have our different pros and cons with cars. Or maybe you don't have any 1st work problems in your life? 🤣 stupid comment
Hello. Don't know if you got any experience with the Android system in Volvo's, but you can't solve any of these issues with hey Google. So that's sadly not true.
So you mean that Hey Google will adjust the display brightness? On what command? And take on/off steer assist? On what command? I'm waiting 🤣 Same with Google navigation. The voice command can't change your itinerary.. But by all means. Please prove me wrong
My Skoda automatically adjusts the display- and dashboard-lighting depending on the outside light-conditions, very nice!
I miss the physical buttons for seat and steering wheel heating. Hate to do it on the touch screen
Yeah. Somethings are just so much better with physical buttons. I'm waiting for a digital button for the indicator lights 🤣 Probably easy to install on BMW 🤣
You can just say what you want to do. What for any buttons?
I totally agree that the pilot assist must come back! It would have been nice if they had given all the buttons on the steering wheel one more layer. For instance with pressing both left arrow on left side, and skip forward on right side simultaneity that it would have activated a "shift" function for 5 seconds or so. Then you could have had another layer under the functions that is there by default.. nice if this could be customized by the user what "shift" function each button should have...
Totally agree on the pilot assist moving. There are now 2 buttons on the steering wheel that don't even do anything!
Nice video 👍 Now two years with mine and I like this car a lot. Was unlucky with t2 engine. First, high oil consumption required dealer intervention to pistons and turbo. Now engine often gets stuck around 3500 rpm in 4th gear or higher, when accelerating, can’t take more torque, and shifts up or enters turtle mode. Hope to get it fixed over the coming holidays.
"Hey google, set screen brightness to 5%", works for me in my XC40 Recharge 2023 Ultimate
Have tried a bunch of times today without luck.. Are that the exact voice command you say?
Fully agree - driving at dusk my screen was too bright : very distracting to go to a menu to change it 😢
Mechanics of the XC40 are brilliant 😊
Great review and very accurate. Making Adjustments via multiple pages in that screen is a huge distraction and not safe
Thanks a bunch 🙌 Yeah agreed
You ever owned one ?
@NOELLE YANG Owned what? I've owned a bunch of Volvo's. Both with Sensus system and the Android system. Also driven nanny many thousand kilometres with different Android presscars. So much experience
@@noelleyang8147 Ok. Didn't know
yea I also test drove a new Volvo with the android system and the lack of toggling of full pilot assist and radar cruise control is BAFFLING!
Kristen: Thank you for your video analysis. It is very accurate. I once drove an XC60, Volvo dealer loaner and had to pull off the road to change a radio station. I am in my mid-70s and find the display information on the speedometer panel and the center screen, too difficult to read, due to the small numbers. My 2000 V70 XC had a very clear dash display, and I could change settings without my eyes leaving the road. My present 2012 XC70 is alright but hard to read at times. The fog light switches are very small and hard to find by touch. Considering that Volvo is safety conscious, I believe its designers must completely redesign the dash modules a on all of its models. We have 4 Volvos and the older cars have better ergonomics. Thank you.
I like when he says maybe he'll need anger management after this. It's a great review because it's genuine anger at the inconveniences introduced by non-car people. I hope Volvo watches this and makes the changes to include what they already had in their previous cars. This is the kind of review that helps makes the product better.
I really love my xc40 T5 AWD. I dislike missing real buttons for camera (i have a narrow exit at my home with nearly no view on people walking or biking. Used to use front cam for these situations. My Volvo hasn't a physical button, though our BMW iX3, Hyundai Ionic 5 and Volkswagen Touareg have a button. Volvo let's take me several steps on screen. Not safe.)
And the showstopper:
I almost ordered a new full electric one. I cancelled. Why? I love to use the pilot Assist funcion. For me a live saver. I use it all the time. Switching between steer assist on the highway and bigger roads and back to ACC in towns, exits etc. I'm not going to buy a car were i have to do this on screen. Not going to happen. Of course, our car from Bayern and the one from Korea did choose to use physical buttons. So i totally agree with the video.
Very annoying and unsafe is that tge function for speed limit us sometimes accidentally set via the steering wheel wile turning it. I will never use the function, now its only annoying me. Last one: i would like my car to remember the last drive mode setting. Now it automatically returns to the comfort settings. I still love my current Volvo! Happiest car I ever had.
I'm glad I watched this! Thank you for making it.
Thanks for watching.. Just be aware that it depends where your coming from and how you interact with the infotainment..
Thank you for your review.
I just tested an XC40 B3 (mild hybrid).
Wont comment on mechancis, which were excellent, but FULLY agree with your point on lighting.
I alos live in the countryside, with no street lighting, and you definitely NEED the lowest dash lighting you can get.
Was also hugely disappointed to see that now, it is no longer possible to switch off the center screen totally, as was feasible with the former models.
And worse, that the crystal gear lever is lit from the inside - and impossible to switch off ! Feels like a torchlight inside the car…
Was very disappointed by android as well, compared to the old Sensus. One more problem - when connectivity disappears … you lose your guidance (or can’t start planning a trip).
Volvo has become just another “gadget” brand.
All in all, it cost Volvo the sale of this car. A true pity. I hope they realize their mistake soon and fix it.
I agree with you regarding the light control but Volvo could have implemented a light sensor with the option to use it or not.
I got my xc 40 2023 recharge twin a few weeks ago. Agree with your points👍
Yeah, it's really weird how cut down the Android Automotive apps are compared to their phone versions. I ran into the same thing my first trip out regarding Maps and multiple destinations, except I couldn't even figure it out at the time. It's so easy to do on the phone though! TH-cam Music is also missing so much stuff. For example, when searching for an artist, you only can see 3 or so albums. There does not appear to be an option to view all, so if you were wanting to look through what was available, you are out of luck. Yet again, the phone interface has no issues with this. I hope they work to try to enable some of these missing features.
Completely agree on the tailored wool though. It's so comfortable!
Wish we could get more of that phone userface in terms of functionality. Didn't know about the TH-cam restrictions. Interesting
It’s interesting I test drove an XC40 way back in 2017 or so and found the sensus system to be absolutely horrendous (after having driven bmw for a decade).
However now I’ve ordered a fully electric XC40 and it having the google system was a big part of my decision.
Hey!
I agree with you totaly.
Both the light adjustment and Pilot assist.
I jused it often in my last xc60 d4 awd 2019. Now with mycket new xc40 P6 2023 I'm so annoyed and irritated over the whole new infotainment system. It's just not Volvo anymore and so much worse than before.
Valid points! I also do use the interior adjustment ..
I drive a 2019 Kinetic one (the cheapest end least well equipped) - and it has automatic cluster brightness adjustment. But for the rest, yes, the infotainment is less than ideal. But, as I see, I can be happy to have the old one in my car.
Thanks Kristian, great points worth noting in there. Did Volvo made an update about these issues? or possible that they will be addressing it in the near future? Thanks heaps!
My take: 1. Not that important. 2. Can't believe they have done that. It surely must have been an oversight in an update because they KNOW the buttons are there. They put them there! 3. Generally speaking, preferring a map system that requires an external device and multiple steps to get updated and is as clunky to use as the Sensus is over a system that I can use in cross-platforms (I am an Android user. If I search for a destination in my phone and the time to get there to know when to leave home, it will be the first option to appear in the search box in the car system when I actually start the trip), that preference can only come from someone who is not yet fully adapted to Google Maps. As for the "Search this area" problem, it must be a bug in that particular version of Google Maps, because it is not how it works.
Looved this review. I live in Florida it rains a lot here and the water catching im the back door hinges is a deal breaker for me. Thanks
Can you use Google assistant to control the screen brightness to avoid doing it manually on the touch screen?
Sadly that's not possible 😕
Totally agree why is there no customisation of the driver display? I should be able to see my maps, or music, different views of maps, etc.
i totally agree the route navigation is totally useless specially when you want to charge somewhere. Another thin that is more ammoying is that we can't see when he is pre-heated for charging
I just got my C40 recharge - still have my beloved XC60 T5 for a few weeks ;) - and one of the first things i missed, were the ones you mentioned in your video (I have to add, that I'm missing the Active High Beam, too). I'm pretty disappointed that Volvo has given up on these usefull features.
Love your videos Kristian!
Fully agree with you from a safety standpoint
But could these features be done via voice command ? - I saw in a video that 1 pedal driving can be enabled/disabled via voice command (our XC40 Twin is on order)
One last question:
Why the XC40 and not Polestar 2?
I live in France where Polestar was banned at the time I placed the order (logo issue with Citroen)
Hello. Great to hear 👍 Sadly these functions can't be activated/deactivated with voice command.
There's mann pros and cons with these cars. And they have their own strengths, but the strongest XC appeal for me are following. Compared to Polestar 2. Increased practicality, more interior storage, opening sunroof, slightly better ground clearance and a more comfortable ride
I just tried this morning in my 2023 XC40 Recharge to add a stop along the destination. It appears that one can now search for places along the route by typing, and not only by voice. It's still not possible to rearrange the order of the stops.
Thank you for your feedback.
Another problem :
No connection between Google Maps on my android phone and Google Maps on y car.
Just the last destinations in the history.
that's all.
We should be able to prepare the trip on our phone, add the intermediate destinations, exchange between 2 destinations and then push the trip on google maps of our cars.
It's not possible.
And when you used google maps on your phone, and google maps with the same account on your car : there's not pop up like in youtube when you use it on your phone and on your tv at home.
TH-cam put a warning : "do you want to synchronise the two devices on the same video?"
My car doesn't ask the question...
No link between the two devices.
When I ordered my electric xc40, I said "Yes, google in may car, it will be a good user experience!!"
But I'm very disappointed.
We just have google maps on the car and no connection with our mobile... And full of faults as you mention in this video.
Understand your frustrations. But I only ever set my illumination once in 5 years. Agree about the steering assist and unused buttons on steering. Now, Google maps ... I get my XC40 next week and will test all this ...but ... I make multiple stops in a day and plan them on my laptop which then sends to my phone which I currently project by Android Auto. I am hoping that the pre-planning will send to the car Android Automotive and display on the main screen ... and then suggest charging stops. We will see. I like the look of the wool, but I really hate that Crystal drive selector - give me the stock black one😁
Interesting to hear if the pre-planning via laptop works better 👍
W
@@volvo_kristian preplanning only sets one destination at a time, rather than a route with waypoints
Hej Kristian, Super video on XC40. Do you experience a screeching brake noise whenever you slowly release the brake from stationary point such as Traffic lights, basement parking ramp, when bumper to bumper traffic, the noise is big nuisance while makes whole body ralttles. Volvo saying its operational noise. I am ok when the disc is rusted, corroded, or not used more many months. I have seen in just 10km, 5000km, 62000 kms XC40/XC60 vehicles. Pls share your experience.
I'm going to test drive this car on Thursday this week. I already know about Pilot Assist. Disappointing. Thanks so much for this review.
This is my first Volvo, and something I don’t see people talk about is the passenger seat knob to recline the seat back for trips. My old Honda civic had a lever that immediately reclined back, and immediately spring forward to sit upright. I do have a Core with leather seats, heat warmers, and adjustable lumbar all electric…WHY this knob?! Is it just the Core trim?
I had many brands of cars... none of these have seats which immediately spring forward... none. even not the manual ones.
Some items I don't like about the XC40:
* Brake-lights and rear turning- lights should be LED!
* No ceiling-grips in the back!?
* Rear door panels are different from the front and look very plastic and cheap...
Yeah. Totally agree with the brake lights. Should be LED 😎
Doesn't the screen have some form.of auto adjust for brightness?
I have used that function I previous cars maybe a few times per year...
Can pilot assist be turned on or off using voice commands?
No. Not as far as I know, and I've tried
Looking forward to the tailored wool video. I am getting a XC40 recharge in a few weeks but with black interior, only because it was a cancelled order that I snapped up. I really like the look of the wool interior but I am curious about the stain resistance and the potential of looking dingy over time. The Tesla white interior is known to be very good in this respect but of course it is a totally different material, so I'd love to know how much of an issue this is with the Volvo wool. Perhaps you can do us a solid and dump a cup of coffee or some chocolate cake on the seat just for our benefit? Sure you will get a lot of views with that content!!!
Hehe 🤣🤣 I've actually thought about that for a while. Spilling coke or chocolate 🤣 Have to get it approved by Volvo Cars if I want to do it on their presscars.. but it's on my mind
there is a darker (maybe not where you live) shade of woold blend seats.... i would definitely choose those...
I get my xc40 next week anf the pilot assist is just stupid as you say. For me, what´s more frustrating is the lack of drivers journal. I use the car alot for work so that will be a bummer.
It can be corrected by software update, the programming can be change and use those buttons for convenience. Sometimes there’s a hack on pressing buttons just to activate some functions 😂
Hey. Thanks for the video. I watched dozens of reviews and almost all of them neglected the downsides of XC40. I was testing XC40 in the past few days and I was massively disappointed. Especially I love the Volvo brand, my old S40 (2012) and really wanted to continue my car journey with Volvo. I agree with you about the overall user experience.
I guess it's a matter of personal preference, but I really don't like the trend of moving all of the functionalities to the tablet. Dimming the interior lights is one of them (although never used it frequently). But things like air conditioning, seats heating... They are used quite often and pressing the right button on the tablet while driving on bumpy roads is always a challenge. I'm not even commenting on removing the pilot assist from the buttons on the wheel... The voice steering is also annoying. I was finding myself repeating the command 2 or 3 times because it either misunderstood me or I misspelled something. Even more annoying that you cannot stop the procedure if you already know you said something incorrectly and command is not going to work. You need to let Google analyse it, inform you that it didn't understand and only then you can try again. The simple thing like turning the heating takes 5-15 seconds and could take 1 sec if there was a button or knob. Memorising the voice commands is another issue. Not sure about English but in Polish Google e.g. understands "stop navigation" but cannot understand "cancel navigation". Discovering all of the working / not working variations is a steep and frustrating learning curve.
The whole Android Automotive looks like it was unfinished, and released too early due to the deadlines. My biggest fear is that they will never patch the issues and the users will end up with half baked product that won't be developed anymore once Volvo releases new car models (the same way as e.g. smart watches lifecycle).
There's also another thing that I cannot understand. I'm very tall (203cm) and I was looking for a crossover/suv where I can fit well (holding my arms on the armrests comfortably). Only Volvo XC40 and Mazda CX30 fulfil that requirement. Volvo allows to move back my seat so far that I can almost stretch my legs (which is fantastic), but a steering wheel is so distant that I'd have to have chimpanzee arms to hold it. Seriously - why the heck did they allow to move the seat so much if a driver cannot reach a steering wheel? Also steering wheel is quite small and I had to hold it in unnatural tight position. Not sure about wool, but leather seats are very hard, I can almost feel the texture of the seat scaffolding. Overall XC40 is beautiful, but lacks of ergonomics :(
There's no speed camera notification audibly from Google maps either on Android automotive which is available in android mobile
Why did you order an XC40 now when the MY24 is opening for orders soon?
Impatient 🤣 With the changes in BST270 delivery I will try to postpone the XC40
@@volvo_kristian I understand. I’m the same 😂 but heard that could be a long range version of the XC40 in MY24. Not sure if it’s true though or only a rumour.
@@fmsantoscar could not find it anywhere.
@@fmsantoscar my24 means?
@@lordvoldemort2564 Model Year 2024. Cars produced from Spring 2023
Hei,
Var i kontakt med Volvo Norge ang. det med pilot assist. De hadde meldt i fra til Volvo Sentralt. Men jeg er ikke jammen meg ikke sikker på at det hjelper 😢 Har du hørt noe mer?
Hei. Ja har hørt svært mange har klaget på dette. Fordelt over alle modellene. Gjelder tross alt alle Volvo's med Android. Volvo fjernet dette via OTA, mens Polestar fremdeles har det på rattet. Eneste jeg har hørt er at hvis mange nok klager så kommer det tilbake.
Isn't it possible to set all by voice command?
I will get mine in spring and I will test it out and give my Feedback ;)
Set what? Light adjustment or Pilot Assist? That's not possible. Destinations can be set by voice
Did you notice an electrical buzzing sound coming from the front when the topography lights are on? I just got a brand new xc40 2023 recharge with ultimate package and I have this sound. Also saw many people complain about this issue on new xc40’s with topography decor.
Haven't noticed any buzzing myself, but I've heard a couple of people mentioning that. Both in XC40, C40 and Polestar 2.
yes i noticed a faint buzzing , couldn't really tell where it was coming from , didn't seem to be coming from the speakers
Doesn't it auto adjust the screen brightness?
I won't get this now, more impressed with the Mazda CX30 from safety pov
i also am pissed especially for pilot assist buttons so what you would suggest how to make a complain and make it effecitve, where to make those complains about it
I think most of your concerns are around Geely's cost saving? I also think this screen is too small
Hm interesting video, I wonder what is ‚your‘ reason to go for the XC40 and not the XC60? Only because it‘s a full electric car?
I have the C40 Recharge Twin Ultimate and happy that it‘s just the CbV abo, so I only have to keep it for 3 months.
I am so annoyed about the vibrations in steering wheel between 100-120 km/h (Volvo doesn‘t care), the buzzing noise of the ambience lighting, which is so annoying I had to switch it off (again, Volvo doesn‘t care), the bad headlights (thx to Pixel-LED not available right now), and these standard LED lights are so so bad, for a car of about 65k€.
What I like though is the interior, the comfort, the power. But I can get this from ‚real‘ premium cars as well. My first Volvo and my last Volvo.
Hello. Just to be totally clear. The XC60 are a much more superior car than XC40. The whole 60 series are a step up. 90 series are several steps up. Volvo's 40 series aren't premium cars compared to their 60 and 90 range. So if I could choose freely I wouldn't go XC40. If you want sweet luxury the V90 or S90 are magical. I'm picking XC40 only because of the powertrain. Want/need a electric car. Yes I'm a huge fan of the XC40 exterior. The cool and urban style, but I'm motivated by lower running costs. Fuel are expensive and there's a high road tax on non electric cars..
@@volvo_kristian i see, hopefully there will be more electric cars from Volvo soon, so for example XC60 as BEV. I also wouldn‘t go back to combustion engine.
I bought new one xc 40 b3 mild hybrid 2 months ago. Straight away I have issues with kers system. Service changed few components due to noise while braking. Now latest they ordered ISGM Module and problem takes 2months and still ongoing. Not to mention their customer service isnt the best either. Bad experience so far. Will be my last volvo for sure.
Is there no auto brightness adjustment like on a phone?
It's buried in the touchscreen
I bought b3 mild hybrid and I have problem when braking is making strange noise from time to time. In service they saiy it is kers emotor. What a damn shame brand new car from factory to have issue like that. Volvo quality and reliability really?
The biggest thing for me so far has been the lack of Android Auto support. As android automotive supports so few apps e.g.Waze - sometimes I need android auto from my phone. Or a guest might borrow my car and want to use their android auto.
Wait... Its android based infotainment. But it does not support android auto from the phone?
@@0tispunkm3y3r yeh. The app exists now for android auto apparently. But Volvo haven't allowed it as of yet. Emailing them they say it's not yet planned....
I have owned at least 10 different cars that had the brightness adjustment and I always set it to one brightness and forget it. This problem is mostly your own preference... I tested the XC40 twin and liked it a lot but went with EQC 400 in the end. Down here Volvo has a bad rep as a hillbilly wagon lol.
Guess you don't live in the Nordic countries? Here the wheel are a super convenient part. A part that I loved. And also good for safety. Everything in all my videos and such are own preferences 👍 Always my opinions. On good and bad 🤣
What country are you from by the way?
@@volvo_kristian I live in Finland...
Can you say “ok google, dim my display to 30%?”
I buy xc 40 core B3
Very good car!
10mins in and you're still complaining about dimming the lights...how many people actually change that multiple times per day like you? I think most people set it once and leave it.
Hehe 🤣🤣 Did you even see the 10 minutes? The part where I talk about the lights only lasts 3 minutes. And I guess you don't live in Norway 🤣 Have a great day
@@volvo_kristian yeh...this video is Titled what you hate. And the first thing you talk about hating is the internal lighting brightness control? 10mins in and that's as far as you've got.
@Simon Hunter Introduction, and also mentioned a couple of other things as well.. Well well.
Most of the screen functions are now voice controlled so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road and the new Android system does that much better than the old system. That and the far superior Google maps are the main reasons Volvo switched to android.
Many functions can be done by voice, but not the ones I'm talking about here. (Beside maybe the light adjustment). Well superior and superior. As I said in the video the maps are fine, but it's way less functionality than Volvo's previous system
Very interesting video Kristian, I saw your past videos some months ago in which you already compared Sensus and Android showing lacks of physical buttons like drive mode selector for instance, and other problems like poor display information or customization. I totally agree with you (and for this I preferred to buy another XC40 my22 instead of a My23 in April..), but you didn't mention two other things that in my opinion are more serious: first one, the fact that Google Services are included for only the first 4 years of the car, then you have to pay a sum that in this moment we don't know to renew, otherwise some functions stop working (Google Assistant for instance, and so what the heck happens with vocal commands? Still work or not?); it will be very useful for every new buyer to know this things BEFORE buying the car, not AFTER 4 years... can you please give us more info about it and especially about the renew costs? Some months ago in the XC60 Price list it was like 900€ for other 3 years if I remember well (that in my opinion is absolutely huge cost), then Volvo took it away and now there isn't any information. Apart from the fact that for me is totally absurd to pay anything for a fundamental part of the car that you already payed when you bought the car, but this is my thought... then another big lack was the impossibility to read and play music from USB pen, so only from internet (and what if you loose connection in some zones?)... maybe that now they have fixed this OTA or not? Thanks and cheers from Italy!
Hm. I don’t see the problem. I’m very happy with the google maps navigation. Don’t care about physical buttons. You get used to the display.
Yeah, as I said it depends where your coming from. These are my opinions. I care about physical buttons you could operate on muscle memory. Not having to take your eyes off the roads. Well well. We like different things
Now had m XC40 for 2 weeks The only really bad thing - and this is really bad ... Reversing light illumination is poor. Living rural with no street lighting and select reverse I can not see anything in the mirrors and the camera screen is a car surrounded by pitch black. The reversing lights need to be much brighter
You could have made this video so much longer you barely scratched the surface. I agree I love the design and styling alot chich is why bought mine. But here's my list:
#1 Trip / odometer is so confusing...why not just stick with what works?
#2 The maintenance tab in the infotainment....why is the tpms data not shown? Am I too stupid to understand tire pressure?? Little green circles doesn't make me feel better show me the data. Why is that hard to understand?
#3 on my 2023 xc40 mild hybrid, why can't I turn off the traction control or vehicle stability control? Every other car I've driven has these on/off controls.
#4. Rear seats don't have the ability to recline or adjust in any way
#5 coat hooks in the rear. Why not supply them with the car? Seems silly to have to buy those separately
#6 No heated wipers....aren't these made in Sweden?
#7 it's an adventure vehicle I think a cargo hitch should come standard....but that's a small complaint
I’m just going to buy an xc90 t8 2023…I’m indecisive about picking it up from the dealer. I’m already driving a beautiful V90 CC d5 2019, with driving modes wheel selector, lights dimming button and sensus navigation, that btw was already working with google maps, especially when you use your phone Volvo App to send destinations to your car.
I’m really indecisive about picking up a new one…I might just buy a 2021 for 30% less and at least the old good sensus.
Is legit to spend more than 100k swiss francs and then have two buttons on the steering wheel that serves as garnishing?
😢 I love Volvos…My dream as a child was to drive one…but nowadays we’re living in dark ages. How can we as consumer let our voices speak out louder?
'about picking it up from the dealer ...' Some ppl can''t even afford to buy food anymore and you are 'indecisive' to pick up an up to USD 100k car?
All you have to do is pull over to the side of the road, stop the car then adjust the brightness bruh.
Maybe that works for you. But for me it's a useless decision removing physical buttons and putting it into the touchscreen. Much better with the adjustment wheel
I just got the petrol version and it's underpowered and slow. The car feels cramped and choppy. It looks great and I like the tech, but I prefer a much faster roomier car. I bet the electric version is much faster.
What engine did you go for? Didn't you testdrive it before purchase? I would gladly take a petrol version over a electric one. Speed aren't everything, but yeah it's blistering fast 🔥
@@volvo_kristian I got the Momentum with the smaller engine. I test drove it and it was fine, but I didn't go up hills. I think I would rather the electric over the gas. Blistering fast sounds very appealing.
If you hate it simple don’t buy
Oslo is beautiful
Seem pretty minor points
These are my points. That's important for me. You may have other things you like/dislike.
Mine has to return to the dillard because it has an eléctric fail, i had to call them three times in just three months. !!!! I dont recomend this car.
Swedish are NERDS and I admire them, unfortunately the passion that comes from experiences of driving and the daily functionality of a car can't be solved on a computer or paper.
I think most of these are not pain points... Most settings in cars should be set while its stationery or as default settings. I don't see why people need to connect smartphones and have them fully functional on a car infotainment...🤔😌
One rason is when You don't pay for a online service plan like the 4 years included on this car. U already have internet on your phone and google maps, so just connect it to the infotainment system and you're a go. But not in this volvo ;)
you are bitching about the lights on the dash and console lighting intensity?, 1st world problems dude, I drive from Fagernes (innlandet) to Oslo a couple times a week, ALL year (early morning and early evening when dark periods at high in the winter months), look at the road not the car interior
Hahaha 🤣🤣 and you are bitching about my personal opinion about a car.. You don't have to agree 🤣 Easier to just accept that we have different preferences.. If the lights doesn't bother you then that's great. If you even own the same car. We all have our different pros and cons with cars. Or maybe you don't have any 1st work problems in your life? 🤣 stupid comment
“Hey google” solves most of your issues.
Hello. Don't know if you got any experience with the Android system in Volvo's, but you can't solve any of these issues with hey Google. So that's sadly not true.
@@volvo_kristian I have the car and it is true.
So you mean that Hey Google will adjust the display brightness? On what command? And take on/off steer assist? On what command? I'm waiting 🤣 Same with Google navigation. The voice command can't change your itinerary.. But by all means. Please prove me wrong
you cry to much
Oslo is beautiful