I recently had the pleasure of test-driving the 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge, Volvo’s compact luxury electric SUV. This year, the XC40 Recharge added a Single-Motor model that generates 249 horsepower and has an extended driving range of up to 293 miles. This battery upgrade addresses one of the critical concerns for EV owners.
The 2024 XC40 Twin Motor model also gets updated electric motors, improving its driving range to 254 miles per charge. The XC40 Recharge now supports faster DC fast charging, reducing the time needed to replenish its battery. This feature gave me confidence on long drives without stopping and recharging the battery.
The XC40 Recharge, which sits at the compact end of Volvo’s SUV lineup beneath the larger XC60 and XC90, is designed for urban dwellers and small families looking for a premium, eco-friendly vehicle. This model, reflecting Volvo’s Scandinavian design philosophy, offers a minimalist yet luxurious interior with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to sustainability with the use of recycled materials throughout the interior.
Volvo’s design team has ensured that the 2024 XC40 Recharge retains its distinctive look while incorporating subtle updates. The SUV features a closed grille and sleek LED headlights, signifying its electric nature. The clean lines and bold stance give it a modern, sophisticated appearance. Inside, the cabin is crafted from high-quality materials, focusing on sustainability—recycled materials throughout the interior.
Models/Price: Volvo offers the XC40 Recharge in three trim levels, each catering to different preferences and budgets. The base Single and -Twin Motor Core trims are well-equipped with essential features, while the Single and -Twin Motor Plus trims add more comfort and convenience options, such as a panoramic sunroof and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The top-tier Ultimate trim includes luxury touches like ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera system, and advanced driver assistance features. The MSRP for the 2024 XC40 Recharge starts at around $53,000 for the Single Motor Core trim, with the fully-loaded Twin Motor Ultimate trim priced at around $61,000 MSRP.
Power/Performance: Under the hood, the entry-level XC40 Recharge is powered by a single, rear-mounted electric motor that generates 248 horsepower. However, the Twin Motor models have dual motors that produce a staggering 402 horsepower and 486-lb-ft of torque, making it one of the market’s most powerful compact electric SUVs. It accelerates from 0-60 in just 4.3 seconds, according to test drivers at Car and Driver.
Battery/EV Range: The Single Motor models have a 79.0-kWh battery that averages around 293 miles per charge, while the Twin Motor models have a 75.0-kWh battery good for 254 miles. Another improved enhancement is charging time. The XC40 Recharge only takes 37 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% on a DC fast charger. A 240-volt Level 2 home charger takes about eight hours.
Whether driving on the highway or navigating city streets, the XC40 was among the most exhilarating EVs I’ve driven.
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