2022 Volvo C40 Recharge
The Volvo XC40 Recharge electric vehicle introduced us to the Swedish company’s battery-electric lineup. It is now joined by a similarly-sized Coupe-SUV that provides a visual evolution for Volvo – the C40 recharge.
Volvo continues to push electrified vehicles across its lineup. The C40 is just a new body style offered alongside the XC40 for consumers to choose between a practical model and a fun one. The C40 only comes as a battery-electric model with no other gasoline-fueled propulsion options.
Design-wise, the C40 could easily be mistaken for an XC40. There is the absence of a grille, replaced by a painted panel made of plastic. Cooling for the drive system comes from the lower grille area. There’s plenty of modern Volvo touches – “Thor Hammer” headlamp units, a flatter hood, and greenhouse that signifies its smaller size and mission it will undertake for its owners.
Where the C40 deviates from the XC40 is in its roofline. The coupe-SUV has a “fastback” look that creates a rakish finish to a high belt line. The taillight units are unique to the C40, but they follow the current Volvo design language. The drawback is rearward vision, which is strictly limited due to its roofline. Finishing off our Ultimate model’s look are a set of five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels.
You may also find some similarities to the XC40 recharge in the C40 inside, as well. The 9-inch Google-driven infotainment screen houses some vehicle functions are controlled to the minimalist switches below it, on the console, and on the steering wheel. Instrumentation is a full digital screen complete with all of the necessary information you will need. The good news is that Apple CarPlay compatibility has returned to the new Volvo infotainment system.
Just like the XC40 Recharge, the C40 is turned on automatically when you step inside. That is, as long as you have the key with you. The vehicle turns off when you press Park and step out of the vehicle.
The mix of leather and suede materials are found across both rows of seats. The front seats are supportive and comfortable. You get power adjustments for height, rake, recline, and lumbar support for the driver. Space is very good up front, but headroom is slightly limited in the back. Cargo space is limited, due to its sloping roofline. Cargo-wise, you have 15.0 cubic feet with rear seats up, expanding to 49.0 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. You also get a sizeable compartment underneath the hood.
The C40 is powered by two electric motors – one at each axle – rated at 402 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. Both motors drive the electronic all-wheel drive system for further traction. Acceleration is very good, while the C40 simply settles in to simply cruise once you’re up to highway speed.
Volvo claims you can go 226 miles from a full charge at 100%. At around 92%, we were able to muster up to 190 miles of range through DC Fast Charging.
Our C40 Recharge tester exhibited a more balanced ride that absorbed rougher surfaces very well. It makes highway driving less of a chore. You will find some softness in the cornering, even with quick response through key handling maneuvers.
The steering wheel had a very soft feel with some on-center softness at lower speeds. The turning radius could be tighter, but response at the wheels is quite good. The brakes worked well in both regular and one-pedal drive situations. Pedal feel is good and can turn in solid stops in normal and panic situations.
The 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge Twin starts at $55,300. Our Ultimate tester came with a sticker price of $60,540.
The C40 is no longer a unique proposition as an electric coupe-SUV. It competes head-on with the Audi Q4 eTron, Tesla Model Y, Genesis GV60, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQB, and BMW iX1.
Looking different may be a good selling point for the Volvo C40 Recharge, it is a new entry into a growing segment of electric vehicles. It like being stylish and live a sustainable lifestyle, the C40 might be one to consider.
Story Credits: CarSoup Editors
