What is that?
Volvo is undergoing a major transformation. It wants to electrify 50% of its vehicles by 2025 and 100% by 2030. It recently produced its last diesel-powered XC90, ending the era of the popular seven-seater.
Volvo is increasing its EV sales with the C40 to meet these goals. How does it drive, and does the interior have Volvo quality? so We are learning about Volvo XC40.
Some news?
The C40 is a sleeker and more aerodynamic SUV than the XC40. Unlike the XC40, only electric motors are offered in the attractive design of the C40.
Since our test, Volvo has renamed its smallest SUV. The C40 will thus become the EC40 and the XC40 the EX40. It joins new models like the EX30 and EX90 without changing powertrains.
Under the hood?
Volvo offers several engine options for the C40, depending on the needs of your electric car. The range-extended single-motor version can go 345.4 miles per charge, but the same motor can be had with a smaller battery and lower price, but the range drops to 299.5 miles.
In the most powerful variant, twin motors are installed on each axle. According to Volvo, it can go from 0-60 mph in a sports-car-scary 4.5 seconds and return up to 339.9 miles. With a DC fast charger, you can charge from 10 to 80% in 28 minutes.
How is the management?
Driving the C40 is relaxing when you want it to be. Smooth and smooth, the ride is only disturbed by larger potholes, but otherwise, it is quiet and pleasant. The C40 is especially quiet at highway speeds, thanks to the lack of engine noise.
The C40 feels heavy, especially in tighter corners, but the massive drivetrain makes it quick in a straight line. Lower speed work isn’t difficult, but the C40’s thin rear window and thick pillars limit rearward visibility.
It looks like what?
The C40 is a sleeker version of the Volvo XC40. The X4 is a more streamlined version of the BMW X3, and Audi’s Sportback range gives its SUVs a coupe-like design.
It also complements the C40 and gives it more character than the XC40. Despite the usual cameras, it’s harder to see out the back than in the regular XC40, making parking difficult.
How is it inside?
Many solid materials are used in the C40 to ensure Volvo’s usual high build quality. Like the Swedish station wagon of old, the C40’s interior is well equipped and durable. In 2021, Volvo stopped using leather in all its electric cars, but the high-quality wool inside makes up for it.
Practically, the C40 is fine. The 413-litre boot is square and easy to access, although it’s smaller than the XC40’s 452-litre boot. Under the hood is a useful “hood” for charging cables. You don’t have to put wet cables in the luggage compartment with the goods, which is handy when it’s raining.
What are the specs?
The C40 is well-equipped in all models. It’s expensive, but it has a fixed panoramic roof, an efficiency-boosting heat pump, and a Google-powered infotainment system with built-in apps like Google Maps and the Google Play Store that update wirelessly.
Statement
The C40 has a good mix of modern and traditional Volvo elements. Solid build quality and an intuitive interior with high-end accents are typical for this Swedish brand.
The twin-engine version feels exciting when you first step on the gas, but the standard single-engine version has more range and is more useful outside the lights.
Fast facts
Tested model: Twin-engine Volvo XC40 Recharge Ultimate
Motor: Dual electric motors
Power: 402 hp
Torque: 670 Nm
Top speed: 112 mph 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
MPG: NA
Emissions: 0 g/km Range: 339.9 miles
Maximum charging speed: 250 kW