MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Volvo Xc40 T4 Safety

NHTSA safety across every Volvo Xc40 T4 model year we cover.

Across the 3 model years of the Volvo Xc40 T4 we cover (2019 to 2021), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2021 at 92 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2020 at 87. No recalls are on record across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The Volvo XC40 T4 is a compact luxury SUV that slots into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed squarely at style-conscious buyers who want premium refinement in a smaller, more urban-friendly package, the XC40 carries Volvo's long-standing reputation for prioritizing occupant protection into a fresh, younger-skewing design that debuted for the 2019 model year.

The 2019 to 2021 Volvo XC40 T4 presents a compelling safety profile. Across three model years, the vehicle recorded zero federal recalls, an uncommon achievement suggesting robust manufacturing processes. The 2021 model year achieved MotorCaliber's highest NHTSA Safety Index for this generation, scoring 92 out of 100. This places it in the Exceptional band, a benchmark few compact SUVs reach. Crash-test performance supports this assessment. The strongest performing year secured a 5 out of 5 star rating in both frontal and side impact tests. Its rollover rating of 4 out of 5 stars is typical for SUVs of this type, a detail buyers focused on maximum scores should note. NHTSA records show 81 owner complaints for the XC40 T4 across the 2019 to 2021 model years. These include 7 crash-related allegations and 6 reported injuries. While these are unverified reports, potential owners should consult the official complaint database for full details. Based on its federal safety data, the XC40 T4 stands as a strong safety performer in its segment.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the XC40 for its distinctive design and upscale cabin feel within the compact luxury SUV segment. Most find it engaging and well-appointed for its class, and the brand's safety heritage tends to draw positive mention. Some reviewers note that the rear seat and cargo space are modest compared to a few rivals, but overall sentiment toward the model is consistently favorable.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2021 XC40 T4 earns a 92 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index, placing it in the Exceptional band - one of the highest scores recorded among compact luxury SUVs in this generation.
  • Frontal and side crash-test results reach the maximum 5 out of 5 stars in the best model year, reflecting strong structural and restraint performance in the two most common serious collision types.
  • The rollover rating of 4 out of 5 stars is solid but not perfect - a relevant consideration for buyers who frequently carry passengers or operate on uneven terrain.
  • Zero federal recalls were issued across the entire 2019 to 2021 model span, which is a notably clean record and reduces the risk of owning a vehicle with an open or past safety action.

Safety Index by year

BY YEARXc40 T4 by model year

Other Volvo models