2025 Volvo XC40 vs. 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

2025 Volvo XC40 vs. 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Compact SUVs rarely feel this well-balanced. The 2025 Volvo XC40 keeps the ride smooth, the tech simple, and the cabin quiet. That's not the approach taken with the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, which is busier inside, heavier around corners, and less grounded in day-to-day comfort. Both premium crossovers appeal to the same audience around Portland, OR, but only one lands the details better.

Cabin Layout and Everyday Function

An uncluttered Volvo XC40 cabin sets a high bar. The dashboard stays clean, with real buttons for volume, defrost, and climate-no digging through menus just to change the fan speed. The touchscreen responds quickly and leaves core functions to physical controls, making simple tasks easy. Storage feels thoughtful, with large door bins, a center tray, and an underfloor compartment in back. Materials feel solid, and cabin noise stays low, even at highway speeds. Drivers from Tualatin to West Linn, OR, who care more about comfort and ease-of-use than cumbersome touchscreen prompts will feel at ease in the Volvo XC40.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class takes a different approach. Dual screens stretch across the dash, blending gauges with infotainment. It has a screen display, but routine tasks like changing the temperature or turning on seat heaters take too many steps. Voice controls work, but not often enough to count on. The setup looks modern but doesn't feel easy to use.

Ride Quality and Traction

The 2025 Volvo XC40 suspension settles quickly with quiet, steady control, smoothing cracked pavement, potholes, and patched highway seams without bouncing passengers around. Steering remains light for parking and precise at higher speeds, which helps on long drives or in tight city streets. Road noise stays low, even on grooved or uneven surfaces. Lake Oswego, OR, commuters and weekend travelers will enjoy every mile in the relaxed and composed new Volvo XC40.

The GLB-Class uses a firmer setup, making road texture more noticeable. Sharp bumps, expansion joints, and uneven gravel send more vibration into the cabin. Lane-keep assist and steering corrections feel aggressive, even on straight roads. It corners well, but the ride never fully settles. Drivers may fight the car's systems more than trusting them on daily commutes.

Space and Practical Use

Thanks to its low floor and wide-opening liftgate, loading gear into the Volvo XC40 feels easy. The Volvo XC40 makes smart use of its compact size. A wide liftgate and low cargo floor simplify loading, whether it's a stroller, suitcase, or grocery haul. The flat cargo area offers 20.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 57.5 cubic feet with them folded-plenty for weekend trips or daily errands. Hooks, compartments, and tie-downs keep smaller items from rolling around. Families around Beaverton, OR, making daily school runs and weekend outings, will like how easy the Volvo XC40 makes loading and unloading bags and gear.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class offers slightly more total cargo space at 62 cubic feet, but its design feels less flexible. The optional third row cuts into usable space and leaves limited room for anything beyond a backpack. With that row folded flat, the floor still rises in awkward spots. The Volvo XC40 may have less space on paper, but its layout feels easier to use in real life.

The Better Choice

The Volvo XC40 delivers a more thoughtful drive from start to finish. Every control, feature, and surface feels designed to reduce distraction and stress. Drivers from Gresham, OR, to nearby Vancouver, WA, will like how the new 2025 Volvo XC40 avoids clutter and distraction, as every feature serves a purpose. It moves with control, keeps the cabin quiet, and focuses on what matters.

Visit Jim Fisher Volvo Cars Portland to learn more about the Volvo XC40, test drive your favorite model, and start your new lease or purchase today.