2025 Volvo XC40 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Comparison Overview
The 2025 Volvo XC40 bursts onto the scene with a spirited 247 horsepower, instantly promising a more engaging drive than its polished rival, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB. While the GLB counters with superior efficiency, boasting 28 combined MPG versus the XC40's 26 combined MPG, the Volvo's greater power output provides a dynamic edge. The GLB offers a slightly more practical package, extending 182.4 inches in length and providing 22 cubic feet of cargo space, marginally eclipsing the XC40's 20.4 cubic feet. However, the XC40 starts at a compelling $40,650, undercutting the Mercedes by $3,150. Torque figures are identical at 258 lb-ft, yet the AWD capability of the Volvo contrasts with the GLB's standard FWD setup, painting two distinct portraits of premium compact utility.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB offers better fuel economy with 33 highway MPG compared to the XC40's 30 MPG, making daily runs cheaper.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
The GLB provides marginally more utility with 22 cubic feet of cargo capacity and a slightly larger overall footprint at 182.4 inches long.
2025 Volvo XC40
The 2025 Volvo XC40 provides a more thrilling output with 247 horsepower versus the GLB's 221 horsepower.
2025 Volvo XC40
The Volvo undercuts the Mercedes significantly, starting at $40,650 compared to the GLB's $43,800 MSRP.
Choose the Volvo XC40 if...
- You prioritize outright performance, as the XC40 delivers 247 horsepower.
- You desire standard All-Wheel Drive capability for varied conditions.
- Sticking to a tighter budget is essential, given the XC40's $40,650 base price.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLB if...
- Maximum efficiency is key, highlighted by the GLB's superior 28 combined MPG.
- You need maximum hauling space, with the GLB offering 22 cubic feet of cargo.
- You prefer the extended length of 182.4 inches for a more substantial road presence.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Volvo XC40 | Mercedes-Benz GLB |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 174.8" | 182.4" |
| Width | 73.7" | 72.2" |
| Height | 65.0" | 66.7" |
| Wheelbase | 106.4" | 111.4" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | — |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | — |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | — |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | — |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Folding Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Drying | — | ✓ |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | — | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | — | ✓ |
| Front Fog Lights | — | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | — | ✓ |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 247 hp @ 5400 rpm | 221 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 258 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | front wheel drive |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | — |
Fuel
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (recommended) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 23/30 MPG | 25/33 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 26 MPG | 28 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 326.6/426.0 mi. | 397.5/524.7 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.2 gal. | 15.9 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | — |
| Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Simulated Alloy Trim on Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | — | ✓ |
| Driver Assisted Parking Assist | — | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | — | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | — | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 9.0 in | 10.25 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stereo Power | 250W | — |
| Speaker System | 8 | — |
| Android Auto (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 6 months |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | — |
| Reverse Tilt Dual Mirrors | ✓ | — |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Remote Keyless Entry | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.0 in. | 40.7 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.9 in. | 41.1 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 56.7 in. | 55.9 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 54.7 in. | — |
| Seat Material: Cloth | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 2 | 3 |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 8-way | — |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | — | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | — | 8-way |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | — | 3 |
Rearseats
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 39.1 in. | 39.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 36.1 in. | 38.1 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 56.3 in. | 54.9 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 54.6 in. | — |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | ✓ | — |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | ✓ | — |
| Reclining Rear Seats | — | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | — |
| Wheel Diameter | 18 in | — |
| Tire Type | All Season | — |
| Tire Size | 235/55R18 | 235/55R18 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | — |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | — |
| Wheel Material | — | Alloy |
| Wheel Size | — | 18 x 7.5 in |
| Run Flat Tires | — | ✓ |
Suspension
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 3 yr./ 30000 mi. | — |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | — | 6 yr./ 62000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Volvo XC40 and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB.
How do the driving dynamics compare between the AWD XC40 and FWD GLB?
The 2025 Volvo XC40 comes standard with All-Wheel Drive, which often translates to more assured handling in adverse weather and a more stable feel. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB is FWD, prioritizing efficiency and daily usability over performance traction.
Is the performance gap between the two crossovers significant for daily driving?
Yes, the Volvo XC40 has a noticeable power advantage, generating 247 horsepower compared to the GLB's 221 horsepower, meaning the Volvo will feel quicker off the line despite having the same 258 lb-ft of torque.
Which vehicle offers better long-term running costs based on fuel?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB appears more economical, achieving 28 combined MPG versus the XC40's 26 combined MPG. However, the Volvo only 'recommends' premium fuel, while the Mercedes 'requires' it.
What is the price difference and how does it affect the value proposition?
The 2025 Volvo XC40 is $3,150 cheaper, starting at $40,650, immediately making it the better financial choice. This lower entry cost balances the slightly higher efficiency offered by the pricier Mercedes.
Which crossover has more room for luggage and supplies?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB wins slightly on capacity, offering 22 cubic feet of storage space. The 2025 Volvo XC40 trails marginally with 20.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
Are the transmissions fundamentally different in operation?
Yes, the XC40 utilizes a traditional 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, offering smooth, conventional gear changes. In contrast, the GLB uses an 8-speed automated manual, which employs clutches and acts differently during operation.
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