2022 Volvo C40 Recharge Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

Volvo has chopped the roof on its electric XC40 Recharge SUV to create the more stylish 2022 C40 Recharge. It shares a lot with the XC40 Recharge, including its all-electric powertrain: two electric motors that provide a whopping 402 horsepower, and standard all-wheel drive. The interior is also similar to the XC40's, including that model's clever storage solutions, high-tech Google Android-based infotainment system, and lofty seating height. A large battery pack with 75-kWh of usable energy storage is said to provide an estimated 225-mile driving range per charge. The C40 Recharge will compete against a growing number of small luxury EV SUVs, including the Audi Q4 e-tron, the Mercedes-Benz EQB, and the Tesla Model Y. But don't expect to see the C40 Recharge at your local Volvo dealership as it will be available exclusively via online ordering.

What's New for 2022?

The C40 Recharge, despite sharing much of its mechanical bits and interior design with the XC40 Recharge, is an all-new model for the Volvo lineup.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Although the boxier XC40 Recharge is offered with the entry-level Plus trim, the more stylish C40 is offered only in luxury Ultimate trim, which adds niceties such as a panoramic sunroof, a Harman/Kardon stereo system, and a 360-degree exterior camera system.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

All C40 Recharge models come with two electric motors—one mounted in the front and one in the rear—which can deliver up to 402-hp; all-wheel drive is standard. This powertrain can be found in the XC40 Recharge as well as the Polestar 2 electric car, so it's no surprise that the C40 Recharge drives much like its squareback sibling. At our test track, the C40 Recharge recorded similar results as the XC40 Recharge, including an identical 4.3-second zero-to-60-mph time. Its ride is compliant and its handling is composed, but it lacks the crisp steering and eager demeanor that endears us to rivals such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

Under the floor of the C40 Recharge lies a battery pack with 75-kWh of usable energy storage, which Volvo says should deliver about 225 miles of driving range per charge. Speaking of charge, all C40 Recharge models will be capable of 150-kW DC fast charging, which is said to provide 80% charge in just 40 mins. For those who plan to charge at home, hooking the C40 Recharge up to a 110-volt or 220-volt outlet is also possible, but charging times will be slower. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, we observed a 200-mile highway range.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA estimates that the C40 Recharge is good for 94 MPGe city and 80 MPGe highway, which is slightly higher than the XC40 Recharge, which is rated for 85 MPGe city and 72 MPGe highway. For more information about the C40 Recharge's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The cabin of the C40 Recharge mirrors that of the XC40. That means a high seating position, clever storage solutions throughout the cabin, a large panoramic sunroof, and high-end materials and finishes. Don't expect to see leather upholstery on the options sheet though: Volvo says the C40 Recharge is the first Volvo model to be completely leather-free. Also unique to the C40 Recharge are backlit trim panels on the dashboard and doors that illuminate to reveal an abstract representation of a topography map. Another big difference between the C40 and XC40 models is the former's more dramatic rear roofline. This coupe-like rake cuts into cargo space somewhat, but drivers are less likely to notice that and more likely to notice the much larger blind spots that such styling creates.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A touchscreen infotainment system running Volvo's latest Google Android-based infotainment system is standard and is capable of receiving over-the-air software updates. The system provides navigation through Google Maps and voice commands via Google Assistant. So far we've found the new interface to be more responsive than Volvo's outgoing Sensus system, but its on-screen buttons are smaller and more difficult to actuate while driving. Additional apps will be available for download through the Google Play Store. A digital gauge display and a premium Harmon/Kardon stereo system are also both included.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Volvo offers a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features as standard on the C40 Recharge, including an adaptive cruise control system, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. For more information about the C40 Recharge's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Volvo offers a well-rounded warranty package on its new cars, including a complimentary scheduled maintenance plan that spans three years or 36,000 miles. The C40 Recharge is also available as part of the Care by Volvo subscription service, which also includes insurance, a home charging station, and an extended maintenance plan.

• Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Battery components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles
• Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specs