The new Volvo XC40, EX40 and EC40 get new lights and bigger screens

Volvo has updated its 40 series cars via the traditional method of updatification: new lights, bigger screens, more technology. Welcome to the new XC40, EX40 and EC40.

Those latter ‘E’ badged cars are the electric ones don’t forget, offering up to 357 miles on a single charge, while the XC40 is the 2.0-litre petrol hybrid.

The ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights have been tweaked, there’s a new front grille, and new treatments for the bonnet and arches too. Messrs XC40 and EX40 gets new tail-lights, tailgate and a redesigned rear bumper, while the EC40 gets… nada. Aww.

All three get a bigger 11.2in touchscreen – yay? – which has been updated to make it “faster and easier with fewer taps needed to access key functions”. This sounds promising.

Naturally, all three get artificial intelligence shoved in there too so you can have a “natural conversation” with a computer (have we learned nothing from Terminator 2?) via Google Gemini. More everyday human upgrades also arrive in the form of ‘smart’ storage, a better wireless phone charger, better upholstery and the option of – gasp – leather!

Other gasps arrive in the shape of a door opening alert warning about oncoming cyclists, an upgraded ‘pilot assist’ system, and a 3D view for the (optional) 360-degree camera. These are all possible thanks to new frickin’ radars all round, a new front camera, new ultrasonic sensors and even a new parking camera.

Prices haven’t yet been announced, but the current XC40 kicks off from £32,860, the EX40 from £42,360, and the EC40 from £44,860.