Software updates has helped
I have a 2017 (April 2017 manufacture date) and I have not had a problem with the modem. In fact I have found that the modem connection and subsequent Pandora is better than just using my iPhone 8+ So I use the car for playing music rather than my phone through Bluetooth or direct connect. Interesting that you are saying that perhaps the 2016 had a 3G and that the 2017 has a 4G. I wonder how we can verify?
Manny
Too be sure, from what the Shop tells me, the 2016 model was equipped with a 3G modem, but upgraded to 4G in the 2017+ line. Go figure that one out in this day and age. My model was ordered in September of 2015 and delivered in December of that year. All in all........worth the wait.
Apparently my issues were somewhat anomalous but have been largely "cured" by a sting of software updates. Credit to the shop in Greensboro for being proactive in having the vehicle in for a look by Volvo's Master Technician. After installing additional software and certificates (beyond the typical updates for Sensus) the problem was arguably resolved and the system is much more reliable.
I doubt seriously that Pandora had anything to do with the connectivity issues rather I think it "suffered" from it and was the problem's most visible indication of a larger issue. The majority of my connectivity issues now are related to simply being "out of my coverage" area. Totally understandable.
I agree wholeheartedly that the feature is better than Bluetooth streaming, if nothing else than being "one less button to push" to enjoy the ride!