While looking for luxury SUVs, a Volvo may not be most people’s first choice. After all, the Swedish carmaker is known for its understated design and underrated sense of fun. Nevertheless, buyers looking for sturdy, safe, and supremely functional vehicles should look no further than a Volvo. The Volvo XC40 is the perfect option, especially for older adults. The XC40 has a comfortable and ambient cabin, is a superb highway cruiser, and is not overly expensive.

Models
Volvo offers three trim levels: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. Within these trims, one can choose from two engines: the base B4 (a 2.0-liter turbocharged 194-hp four-cylinder engine) with front-wheel drive or the B5 247-hp engine with all-wheel drive. The base Volvo XC40 model is priced at $37,445.

Key senior-friendly features
Safety
Safety is usually a priority when buying a vehicle. The new Volvo XC40 is among the safest options for seniors today. With Volvo’s commitment to building reliable cars, the XC40 comes with an impressive array of safety features like City Safety, which can detect and mitigate potential collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals. The Run-off Road Mitigation feature helps prevent unintentional lane departures. Further, Volvo has added large windows and slim pillars to the SUV, offering excellent all-around visibility. This feature enhances safety by reducing blind spots and making it easier to navigate in heavy traffic or tight parking spaces.

Comfortable seating and ergonomic design
With high-quality materials and sophisticated design, the XC40 creates an inviting and premium ambiance that enhances the overall driving experience. For senior drivers, comfort becomes increasingly important, especially on long drives. The Volvo XC40’s interiors are ergonomically designed with comfortable seating and easy-to-reach controls. The seats provide ample support for the back, reducing the risk of discomfort or fatigue on long journeys. Further, the higher seating position allows for a better view of the road, enhancing confidence while driving. 

Infotainment and assistive technology
The Volvo XC40’s user-friendly infotainment system ensures that connectivity and navigation are hassle-free for seniors. The SUV offers the Sensus Connect infotainment system with a user-friendly touchscreen enabling seamless integration with smartphones, hands-free calling, music streaming, and access to navigation tools. For those who appreciate additional support while driving, features like adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, and blind spot information system enhance overall driving confidence. This helps drivers maintain a safe following distance, stay centered in the lane, and avoid collisions—offering a favorable driving experience for seniors.

Easy-to-read display
The XC40 comes with a digital driver display that presents important information in a clear and easy-to-read format. Seniors can customize the display to show the details they find most relevant, such as speed, navigation instructions, and safety alerts. This feature enhances visibility and reduces the need for distractions while driving, making the Volvo XC40 ideal for seniors.

Ample cargo space
The Volvo XC40’s compact size makes parking and maneuvering a breeze, while the rear hatch opens wide, granting easy access to the cargo area. For seniors who may require additional storage for mobility aids, groceries, or travel essentials, the cargo space in the new XC40 is a major advantage. Further, seniors can take advantage of fold-flat rear seats, adjustable load floors, and hidden compartments to accommodate different types of cargo during their journeys. What’s more? The SUV offers practicality with smart storage solutions in the form of multiple cup holders, door pockets, and compartments.

Low noise and vibration levels
The XC40 excels in providing a smooth and quiet ride, which contributes to overall driving comfort, especially for older adults. Volvo cars are ideal for seniors, as the engineers focus on reducing noise and vibration levels, creating a serene cabin environment where conversations and music can be enjoyed without disturbance.

Smooth performance
For seniors in regions with extreme weather or uneven terrain, the Volvo XC40’s available all-wheel drive system ensures improved traction and stability even in such conditions. Improved traction, combined with driving assistance programs, lowers the risk of casualties or mishaps. Additionally, the SUV’s suspension system offers a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease. So, seniors with back or joint issues can have a gentle and pleasant driving experience with the XC40.

Easy entry and exit
Getting in and out of the SUV is easy due to its ergonomic design and well-placed grab handles, making entry and exit effortless for seniors. The keyless entry feature also adds to the convenience. Further, a hands-free tailgate allows for convenient loading and unloading of cargo by simply waving a foot under the rear bumper. The clear, easy-to-read interface minimizes distractions, ensuring that drivers can focus on the road without feeling overwhelmed. 

Driver profile settings
The XC40 allows drivers to create personalized profiles that store preferred settings for seating positions, climate control, and infotainment preferences. For those sharing the vehicle with other family members, this feature offers hassle-free adjustment to their ideal driving settings.

Remote access and assistance
Volvo’s smartphone app offers remote access to the SUV, allowing seniors to lock or unlock their car, preheat or cool the interior, and find the parked vehicle remotely. Additionally, the app provides access to Volvo On Call assistance for emergencies or car breakdowns.

Generous warranty coverage
Volvo offers generous warranty and maintenance plans that add to the appeal of the XC40 for seniors. The powertrain warranty extends up to four years or 50,000 miles, while scheduled maintenance lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

While functionality and safety are crucial in an automobile, the XC40 also comes with a stylish and modern exterior design. So, one can enjoy driving a car that looks as good as it performs.