Driven | Volvo XC40 Recharge Single Motor PLUS
Quick Facts:
175 kW and 330 Nm
- Battery Capacity: 69 kWh
Range: Up to 400 km (on a full charge)
- Priced from R1 108 000
The transition to electric vehicles is well underway, and Volvo is at the forefront, bringing sustainability and luxury together in the stylish Volvo XC40 Recharge Single-Motor.
Exterior Design:
Volvo has always been synonymous with minimalist yet elegant design, and the XC40 Recharge is no exception. The exterior’s clean lines and seamless contours give it a sophisticated, premium look. The iconic Thor’s Hammer LED headlights illuminate the front, instantly recognizable as a hallmark of Volvo’s design language. Since it’s fully electric, the front grille is closed off to enhance aerodynamics, improving range efficiency.
The XC40 Recharge rides on 19-inch alloy wheels that blend practicality and performance. The black mirrors and black roof contrast nicely with the body color, while the sleek “Recharge” badging reminds you that this is an all-electric SUV. A significant feature is the electric tailgate, offering a convenient 452 litres of boot space, further emphasizing the car’s practicality for family use.
Powertrain and Performance:
The XC40 Recharge is powered by a 69 kWh battery, producing 175 kW (238 hp) and 330 Nm of torque, all delivered instantly thanks to the electric motor. It’s rear-wheel drive, which brings a sportier feel to the handling, and though it has a single motor, it doesn’t lack power. It’s quick off the line and handles with precision, making city driving a pleasure. Volvo claims a range of around 400 km on a full charge, making it suitable for both urban commutes and longer journeys.
Charging options are flexible: an AC charger (8-10 hours), a DC fast charger for quicker top-ups (around 37 minutes to 80%), or the option of installing a home wall box charger. Living near a fast charger makes daily life with the XC40 convenient, especially when utilizing public charging stations.
Interior:
Stepping inside the XC40 Recharge, you are greeted by premium materials and Volvo’s typical understated luxury. The eco-friendly leather seats are electrically adjustable with memory functions, ensuring comfort for all drivers. Soft-touch materials and plush surfaces contribute to a sophisticated ambiance, while the Harman Kardon sound system elevates the in-car audio experience.
The 9-inch infotainment screen is powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, allowing easy voice control using "Hey Google." From navigation to climate control, Google Assistant manages it all. Apple CarPlay is available via a cable connection, and the driver benefits from a fully digital instrument cluster displaying essential information such as battery level and range.
Notably, the XC40 Recharge has no traditional start button—simply step in, place your foot on the brake, shift into drive, and the car is ready to go, seamlessly blending modern technology with ease of use.
Driving Impressions:
One of the standout features of electric vehicles is their silent operation and the XC40 Recharge doesn’t disappoint. Volvo’s attention to soundproofing ensures a refined cabin experience, where even the wipers seem louder than the motor. The rear-wheel drive layout brings a touch of agility to the driving dynamics.
Volvo has prioritized range in this model, offering a slightly lower power output than the dual-motor variant but a much-improved range, which is critical for EVs. Whether commuting in the city or enjoying the open road, the XC40 offers an enjoyable, composed drive.
Technology and Safety:
As expected from Volvo, safety is paramount. The XC40 Recharge comes with a suite of advanced driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking. The Volvo on Call app allows remote access to car functions like pre-conditioning the cabin or checking battery status.
On the tech front, the XC40 offers USB Type-C ports throughout the cabin, ensuring your devices stay charged on the go. The simplicity of the infotainment system and its integration with Google Services provides a seamless and intuitive user experience, making driving and living with the XC40 Recharge effortless.
Verdict:
Volvo’s XC40 Recharge Single-Motor is an exciting step into the electric future. It combines stylish design, premium materials, and sustainable technology into an SUV that is practical, family-friendly, and great to drive.Priced from R1 108 000, it’s certainly positioned in the premium segment, but it delivers on all fronts with luxury, innovation, and performance.
For those looking to make the switch to electric without sacrificing style or comfort, the XC40 Recharge is an excellent choice, proving that Volvo is not just keeping up but leading the charge in the EV revolution.
