Many shoppers end up trusting an automaker’s reputation when deciding whether a vehicle is safe. And of course, Volvo is one of the first brands many people associate with safety. But does the 2021 Volvo XC40 live up to the luxury manufacturer’s legacy?

Let’s explore how the experts evaluated the XC40 and look into what safety features this subcompact luxury SUV offers.

Is the 2021 Volvo XC40 safer than before?

It might not be fair, but the automotive industry holds Volvo to a higher standard when it comes to safety. XC40 models of the past might not have lived up to expectations, but Volvo significantly improved its subcompact SUV for 2021.

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2020 XC40 the Top Safety Pick award. However, it rated the SUV’s standard headlights as “poor.” 

But, Volvo isn’t one to settle for safe enough. After all, this manufacturer performs insane safety tests for its vehicles.

Volvo fixed the issue as one of its major updates for the model year by making adaptive LED headlights standard equipment. The IIHS rewarded the Swedish luxury car company by naming the 2021 Volvo XC40 a Top Safety Pick +.

Notably, the IIHS gave the 2021 XC40 its highest rating of “good” in all six of its crashworthiness tests. Additionally, the organization deemed the SUV’s front crash prevention systems to be “superior.”

The only blemish on the 2021 Volvo XC40’s safety record is its LATCH system, which the IIHS rated as “acceptable.”

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also praised the 2021 XC40. It gave the Volvo’s smallest SUV a five-star safety rating with top marks in frontal and side crash tests. However, the XC40 only scored a four-star rating in the rollover test, as it had a 15.5% rollover risk.

What makes the 2021 Volvo XC40 so safe?

This underrated subcompact luxury SUV is undoubtedly structurally sound. But how does it help you prevent a crash in the first place?

Volvo loaded the vehicle with an incredible assortment of driver-assistance technologies. These include vital systems like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. 

Plus, the 2021 Volvo XC40 also has next-gen safety systems like oncoming collision mitigation, lane-keep assist, and much more. Shoppers can also add available features like automatic parking assist and a surround-view parking camera.

Those who want all the latest smart safety systems will love the XC40’s available Pilot Assist. This semi-autonomous driver-assist feature is like an advanced adaptive cruise control system. 

Simply set your desired speed, and it’ll use radar and cameras to help your vehicle maintain a safe distance between your XC40 and the car in front of it. Meanwhile, it also utilizes steering assist to keep the SUV centered in your lane.

Volvo’s subcompact luxury SUV sets the standard for its class

Safety is understandably the top priority for many drivers. Thankfully, the 2021 Volvo XC40 excels in this category.

However, this model isn’t a one-trick pony. It also features a wealth of amenities, luxurious Scandinavian design, and a fuel-efficient engine. And eco-conscious drivers will be happy to learn that the all-electric XC40 Recharge is quite a thrill-ride.

All-in-all, the 2021 Volvo XC40 proves that a safe ride doesn’t have to be a boring one. You can take full advantage of this SUV’s luxurious features and cutting-edge tech while riding with complete peace of mind.