The Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury SUV produced for the US market from the 2019 model year onward. It has been offered in multiple powertrain configurations across its production life, including turbocharged gasoline engines, mild hybrid powertrains, a plug-in hybrid variant, and a fully electric version sold under the Recharge name. Towing capacity varies by drivetrain and powertrain type, with AWD gasoline and plug-in hybrid configurations carrying the highest published trailer weight ratings.
This guide covers Volvo XC40 towing specifications by model year for the US market, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight limits, payload capacity, and hitch class. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, all-wheel drive system, and braking components from overload damage across all powertrain variants.
Quick Navigation
2025 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B4 (194 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B5 AWD (247 hp); 2.0L PHEV Recharge T5 AWD (262 hp combined); Recharge Pure Electric (see notes) |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD gasoline/PHEV with tow package; FWD not rated |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (AWD gasoline and PHEV models only) |
The 2025 Volvo XC40 AWD gasoline and Recharge PHEV models support a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs when equipped with the factory tow package. FWD B4 models do not carry a towing capacity rating in the US market. The Recharge Pure Electric variant’s US towing specification should be confirmed directly in the owner’s manual, as published ratings for this configuration differ between markets.
2024 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B4 (194 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B5 AWD (247 hp); 2.0L PHEV Recharge T5 AWD (262 hp combined); Recharge Pure Electric |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD gasoline/PHEV with tow package; FWD not rated |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (AWD gasoline and PHEV models only) |
The 2024 Volvo XC40 maintains the 3,500-lb maximum towing capacity for AWD gasoline and Recharge PHEV configurations with the factory tow package. Tongue weight must not exceed 350 lbs on any equipped model, regardless of total trailer weight. Payload capacity must account for all occupants and cargo before trailer tongue weight is added to the total vehicle load.
2023 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B4 (194 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B5 AWD (247 hp); 2.0L PHEV Recharge T5 AWD (262 hp combined); Recharge Pure Electric |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD gasoline/PHEV with tow package; FWD not rated |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (AWD gasoline and PHEV models only) |
The 2023 Volvo XC40 AWD gasoline and PHEV towing specifications remain consistent with the prior model year at 3,500 lbs maximum trailer weight. Towing near the rated maximum on grades or in high temperatures increases thermal load on the transmission and all-wheel drive system. An auxiliary transmission cooler reduces this risk on vehicles used for frequent or sustained towing.
2022 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B4 (194 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl Mild Hybrid B5 AWD (247 hp); 2.0L PHEV Recharge T5 AWD (262 hp combined); Recharge Pure Electric P8 AWD (408 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD gasoline/PHEV with tow package; FWD not rated; Pure Electric — verify in owner’s manual |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — AWD gasoline/PHEV only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (AWD gasoline and PHEV models only) |
The 2022 Volvo XC40 introduced the B4 and B5 mild hybrid designations for the gasoline powertrains, replacing the T4 and T5 naming from prior years, while towing capacity remained unchanged at 3,500 lbs for AWD models. The Recharge Pure Electric P8 AWD was also available this model year; its US towing rating should be confirmed in the owner’s manual as Volvo’s published US specification for this variant differs from European market data. FWD B4 models do not carry a US towing rating.
2021 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl T4 FWD (187 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl T5 AWD (248 hp); 2.0L PHEV T5 Recharge AWD (262 hp combined); Recharge Pure Electric P8 AWD (408 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — T5 AWD/PHEV with tow package; T4 FWD not rated; Pure Electric — verify in owner’s manual |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — T5 AWD/PHEV only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (T5 AWD and PHEV models only) |
The 2021 Volvo XC40 added the Recharge Pure Electric P8 AWD to the US lineup, alongside the existing T4, T5, and Recharge PHEV configurations. Gasoline T5 AWD and Recharge PHEV models retain the 3,500-lb maximum towing capacity when the factory tow package is installed. The T4 FWD remains without a published US towing rating for this model year.
2020 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl T4 FWD (187 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl T5 AWD (248 hp); 2.0L PHEV T5 Twin Engine AWD (262 hp combined) |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — T5 AWD/PHEV with tow package; T4 FWD not rated |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — T5 AWD/PHEV only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (T5 AWD and PHEV models only) |
The 2020 Volvo XC40 added the T5 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid AWD to the US lineup, which carries the same 3,500-lb towing capacity as the gasoline T5 AWD when the factory tow package is installed. Plug-in hybrid models operating in electric-only mode should not be used for sustained towing near the rated limit, as electric-only range and motor thermal output are not calibrated for the same towing demands as combined hybrid operation. T4 FWD models remain without an approved US towing rating.
2019 Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl T4 FWD (187 hp); 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cyl T5 AWD (248 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD / FWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — T5 AWD with tow package; T4 FWD not rated |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) — T5 AWD only |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 960 lbs (435 kg) — verify on door jamb sticker |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II (1-1/4-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (T5 AWD only) |
The 2019 Volvo XC40 was the launch year for this model in the US market and offered two powertrain options: the T4 FWD and the T5 AWD. The T5 AWD with the factory tow package supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and a tongue weight limit of 350 lbs. The T4 FWD does not carry an approved US towing capacity rating and should not be used for trailer towing.
Towing Equipment and Setup Tips
The Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV with a Class II hitch receiver. Towing equipment selection and setup follows standard passenger SUV guidelines. The following covers the key equipment requirements for safe and compliant towing within the XC40’s rated limits.
Tow Package
The factory tow package for the Volvo XC40 includes the Class II 1-1/4-inch receiver hitch, a four-pin or seven-pin trailer wiring harness, and associated electrical components. The tow package is available only on AWD gasoline and Recharge PHEV configurations; FWD and Pure Electric variants do not have a factory tow package option in the US. The published maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs is contingent on factory tow package installation.
Trailer Brake Controller
Trailers above 1,500 lbs typically require a trailer brake controller under most US state and Canadian provincial regulations. The XC40 does not include a factory-integrated electronic brake controller. An aftermarket proportional brake controller is recommended for trailers in the 2,500- to 3,500-lb range to provide adequate stopping performance and reduce load on the vehicle’s brake system.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
The Volvo XC40 uses a Class II hitch with a 1-1/4-inch receiver. Standard weight-distributing hitch systems require a Class III 2-inch receiver and are not compatible with this platform. Proper tongue weight distribution, maintained between 10 and 15 percent of total trailer weight and within the 350-lb limit, is the correct method for managing axle load balance on this vehicle.
Transmission Cooler
Sustained towing near the 3,500-lb maximum trailer weight, particularly on grades or in high ambient temperatures, increases fluid temperature in the automatic transmission. AWD models used for regular or frequent towing benefit from an auxiliary transmission cooler, especially when the factory tow package does not include one as standard equipment. Monitoring transmission temperature during extended towing sessions reduces the risk of fluid degradation.
Proper Tire Load Ratings
All four tires must be rated to carry the combined weight of the vehicle, occupants, cargo, and tongue weight from the trailer. The XC40’s door jamb placard specifies the correct inflation pressures for loaded driving conditions. Proper tire inflation under towing load is necessary to maintain handling stability and prevent heat buildup in the tire carcass.
Trailer Sway Control
The XC40 includes Dynamic Stability Control, which applies selective braking to counteract trailer sway. Sway risk increases when tongue weight falls below 10 percent of gross trailer weight or when trailer cargo is loaded too far rearward. Within the XC40’s 3,500-lb towing limit, correct physical trailer loading is the primary sway prevention measure, with electronic stability systems providing a secondary layer of control.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Configuration Factor | Light Load (Under 1,500 lbs) | Heavy Load (2,500 to 3,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Trailer Brake Controller | Not required | Recommended or legally required |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not compatible / Not required | Not compatible with Class II receiver |
| Transmission Cooler | Standard cooling sufficient | Aftermarket cooler advisable |
| Tire Inflation | Standard pressure | Verify against door jamb load chart |
| Tow Package | Required | Required |
| Tongue Weight Verification | Estimate acceptable | Scale measurement recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Volvo XC40?
The Volvo XC40 has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on AWD gasoline and Recharge PHEV models with the factory tow package installed. FWD models do not carry a US towing capacity rating. This specification has been consistent across all US model years from 2019 onward for applicable AWD configurations.
How much can a Volvo XC40 tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package installed on an AWD or PHEV model, the Volvo XC40 can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The tow package includes the Class II receiver hitch and trailer wiring. Without the factory tow package, the vehicle is not approved for trailer towing regardless of powertrain configuration.
Does AWD affect Volvo XC40 towing capacity?
Drivetrain selection directly determines whether the XC40 carries a towing capacity rating. AWD models are rated at 3,500 lbs maximum towing capacity with the factory tow package. FWD models have no published US towing rating and should not be used for trailer towing.
What trailer weight is safe for a Volvo XC40?
For AWD models with the tow package, any trailer within 3,500 lbs gross weight is within the manufacturer-specified limit. Operating at or below 80 percent of the maximum towing capacity, approximately 2,800 lbs, reduces transmission and drivetrain thermal stress. Tongue weight must remain between 10 and 15 percent of gross trailer weight and within the 350-lb limit.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Volvo XC40?
A weight-distributing hitch is not compatible with the XC40’s Class II 1-1/4-inch receiver and is not required within the 3,500-lb towing limit. Tongue weight management must be achieved through correct trailer load placement. Verifying tongue weight with a portable scale before departure is advisable when towing loads above 2,500 lbs.
Can the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric tow a trailer?
The Recharge Pure Electric XC40 has a towing capacity in European markets, but the US-market specification should be verified directly in the owner’s manual for the specific model year in question. No factory tow package is offered for the Pure Electric variant in the US market. Operators should not assume the European towing rating applies to US-specification vehicles.
Conclusion
The Volvo XC40 offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) across all AWD gasoline and Recharge PHEV configurations from the 2019 through 2025 model years. FWD variants do not carry a US towing rating. The factory tow package, available only on AWD and PHEV models, is a required component for any trailer connection and for achieving the published towing limit.
The Class II hitch receiver and 350-lb tongue weight limit define the trailer types suitable for the XC40. Conventional trailers, small boat trailers, and light recreational trailers within the 3,500-lb gross weight are within this vehicle’s towing range. The Recharge Pure Electric variant’s US towing specification requires direct verification in the owner’s manual, as it is not consistently published in US market consumer-facing documentation.
Always verify towing specifications using the vehicle’s owner’s manual and door jamb placard before towing, and confirm that the factory tow package is installed before connecting any trailer.
