"[Do you think if I ask dealer to re-adjust the mount he will do it without fuss, given he already said "this
noise is characteristic to volvo & there is nothing he can do"]"

They might but it depends on the individual that you're talking to PLUS the tech who gets assigned your repair order unless you're able to speak to the technician yourself. What I mentioned isn't a "normal" proceedure but we've now seen two XCs where the car had a slight noise similar to your description and after loosening the upper mount, the engine shifted over slightly to what I'd call a "unstressed" or neutral type position as it's not pushed over, then tightened as it would have appeared. All I can suggest is that you mention this and ask.

I'm not aware of any clunking noises as being "normal" with that transmission so if you're convinced that there's something wrong, I'd suggest driving it with either your service writer or the tech involved so that they know exactly what you're referring to. You can also try driving another similar car, same trans to see if that car makes the same noises or not.