I have not noticed it and I’m usually pretty perceptive of that kind of thing so I wonder if there’s a speed variable volume setting to turn on or off, or to adjust the intensity somewhere. It’s actually been on my mind to look for it. I keep catching the volume feeling too loud when I’m stopped. Although, I do really only like that feature when the variation in perceived volume is truly almost imperceptible as it was in my VW a couple cars back. Anyway.. let me know if you figure it out.
As for the engineering, the Volvo is jam packed with all kinds of features, but I also feel the details and refinement leave a little something to be desired. It sometimes feels a bit gimmicky.. I hate to say it, but the way Chinese tech knock offs often do. Honestly my ‘17 Mustang GT felt more premium in some important ways. One example of the Volvo falling short is that you can control all the windows after you turn the car off, but not the sunroof. Tonight I parked my car and got my dog and everything out, and then realized I’d left the sunroof open. When I pushed and held the door lock, I could hear the windows trying to close (they already were) but the sunroof stayed open. I had to get back in the car and turn the ignition back on to accomplish that. A simple thing, but this is a $46k car, well over 50 after Illinois and Chicago taxes.
When I get in my stepmom’s Mercedes GLC which cost only slightly more than my fully loaded XC40, it feels like a whole different level. Mercedes and Audi have considerably more sophisticated driving characteristics too.
After 9 months I’m still very happy with my XC4 and it’s beautiful. I’m just not sure that I’ll get another one when the lease is up because I love driving and spent lots of time in my car... and the details do add up.
Each manufacturer goes for a different set of values and priorities, and so do their loyal drivers. Many people would never notice the things you’ve described. I love the uniqueness and understated luxury of the Volvo, as well as the safety, for example. But when I’m not even one year into a car and already thinking about what’s next, I realize this may not be the best match. We’ll see.