While Polestar, Volvo’s electric vehicle sub-brand, has been garnering much of the attention for the Swedish automaker’s all-electric push, but models like the XC40 Recharge shouldn’t be overlooked. The compact crossover is just as stylish and reasonably practical as its internal combustion sibling while packing over 400 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, and a respectable-enough driving range.
The XC40 Recharge has its downsides, such as its relatively high asking price, shorter driving range versus some competitors, and single-choice drivetrain, but it does provide ample performance, good looks, a Google-powered infotainment system, and an upmarket cabin that separates it from the crowd. And its looks have improved heading into 2023 with the model being refreshed slightly for its third year in production. The Volvo is certainly worth a look for those seeking a small EV crossover.
2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge
- 19-Inch Wheels
- Power-Folding Rear Headrests
- Google-Powered Infotainment System
- 12.3-Inch Digital Gauge Cluster
- Synthetic Leather Seats
- Harmon/Kardon Sound System
- Model: 2023 XC40 Recharge
- Engine:: Dual Electric Motors
- Power Output: 402 HP
- Torque: 486 LB.-FT
- Range: 223 Miles
- Transmission: 1-Speed
- Driveline: AWD
- MSRP: $54,645
- Sprighlty Performance
- Agreeable Styling
- Quick Charge Times
- Subpar Driving Range
- So-So Interior Quality And Styling
- Some More Practical EV SUVs Are Cheaper
2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge Performance And Capability
The 2023 XC40 is available in three trims:
- Twin
- Twin Plus
- Twin Ultimate
While some competitors offer a choice of battery sizes or drivetrains, Volvo has taken a one-size-fits-all approach for its compact electric crossover. All XC40 Recharge models are fitted with dual electric motors offering a notable 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. All models come standard with all-wheel drive with an electric motor powering each set of wheels.
With near instantaneous acceleration, the XC40 Recharge will sprint from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds and zip by the quarter-mile mark in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph. The Recharge’s 0-60 time is nearly two seconds faster than the 247-horsepower internal combustion XC40 with all-wheel drive. It’s also more rapid than either the Ford Mach-E or Tesla Model Y Long Range can manage.
Though it might not have the outright agility of its corporate cousin, the Polestar 2, when the going gets twisty, the Recharge is nevertheless agile. Yet, it retains the comfort fitting of a daily driver with a compliant ride quality — an appreciated blend of athleticism and a relaxed demeanor no matter the driving situation.
The EPA has rated the 2023 XC40 Recharge at 85 MPGe with a total driving range of 223 miles. That figure puts the Volvo on par with the Audi e-Tron, though it trails some of its fellow luxury compact EV SUVs, like the Jaguar I-Pace, Model Y, and Mercedes-Benz EQB, though the latter also offers far less power.
The Recharge is fitted with DC fast charging capability as standard, which Volvo claims will re-juice the 75kWh battery pack from 10 to 80 percent in 37 minutes. With a 240V source dishing out 11kW, the automaker claims a full charge in eight hours. Both of those figures are relatively speedy among competitors. Drivers can also increase range using a one-pedal driving mode.
While most don’t associate its segment with off-roading or towing, the Recharge can do both in a limited capacity. The Recharge comes with an all-terrain mode for hill descents, and it is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds.
Exterior Design
The 2023 XC40 Recharge has been refreshed with an updated look that includes more pronounced headlights, a slightly revised and more squared-off front bumper with a tweaked grille. These alterations bring the XC40 Recharge more in line with its fastback sibling, the C40 Recharge. The short front and rear overhangs, bulky C-pillar, indentations on the lower side of the doors and overall boxiness gives the Recharge a slightly rugged and certainly handsome appearance that isn’t too overstated.
The two lower trim models are fitted with 19-inch wheels while the Ultimate wears 20-inch versions. The base Recharge is only available with an all-black interior, but the Plus and Ultimate trims offer dark blue trim. It may not be the most visually striking among EV SUVs, but it sports a stylish wrapper that’s easy to appreciate.
Length | 174.8 in. |
|---|---|
Width | 80.1 in. |
Height | 65 in. |
Wheelbase | 106.4 in. |
Ground Clearance | 7.1 in. |
Curb Weight | 4,679 lbs. |
Exterior Colors | Price |
|---|---|
Black Stone | $0 |
Sage Green | $695 |
Silver Dawn | $695 |
Thunder Gray | $695 |
Fjord Blue | $695 |
Crystal White | $695 |
Interior Quality And Technology
The XC40 Recharge’s cabin won’t wow its passengers with its minimalistic approach. The touchscreen is housed in a simplistic and driver-focused inlay on the dash and is flanked by rectangular vents above one row of physical controls and a rotary dial, and the center stack is also minimalistic with its small cubby area and short gear lever. There are some curves to be found around the digital instrument cluster, but the most notable styling feature is a backlit interior trim. When lighted, it showcases a topographical-like map of a national park in Sweden.
The XC40 Recharge is chock-full of technology and creature comforts. All models are fitted with a vertical, nine-inch touchscreen powered by Google with Google Maps built into the system (though Apple CarPlay connectivity is also standard). Also standard is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and an eight-speaker sound system.
The mid-range Plus model adds a power-adjustable front passenger seat, power-folding rear headrests, a panoramic moonroof and a bird’s eye view camera system. The top-spec Ultimate is fitted with a Harmon/Kardon sound system, the aforementioned larger wheels, heated rear seats and steering wheel, and additional driver’s aids.
With its compact footprint, passengers over six feet might feel slightly cramped in the Volvo’s confines, but those under that height won’t be uncomfortable even in the rear seats. For stuff, the cargo area offers 21.7 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and 57.5 with the back seats folded away, which is respectable given the Recharge’s size. There’s also a small frunk for the Recharge’s charging cables or other small items.
Seating Capacity | 5 |
|---|---|
Headroom (front) | 37.6 in. |
Headroom (second row) | 38.3 in. |
Legroom (front) | 40.9 in. |
Legroom (second row) | 36.1 in. |
Shoulder room (front) | 56.7 in. |
Shoulder room (second row) | 56.3 in. |
Cargo Room | 21.7 cu.-ft. |
2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge Price And Availability
The 2023 XC40 Recharge is available now with prices starting at $54,645 and topping out at $60,595 for the Twin Ultimate trim. With just $6,000 separating the three trims and all carrying the same drivetrain, you will be left only with a choice of how decked-out and specced-out you want your model to be. It should be noted only one color is standard with all others requiring a $695 upcharge. Opting for 20-inch wheels in the Plus model rings it at $800 while Fjord Blue interior trim adds $1,100.
Build your 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge here.
Trim | Price |
|---|---|
Twin | $54,645 |
Plus | $57,345 |
Ultimate | $60,595 |
Safety
The XC40 Recharge has not yet been rated by the NHTSA. All models come standard with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and corrective steering, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The Plus model includes a bird’s-eye view camera, and Ultimate trim adds adaptive cruise control.
Main Competition
The XC40 Recharge lines up against the Audi Q4 e-Tron, Tesla Model Y, Genesis GV60, and Jaguar I-Pace in the luxury compact EV SUV segment, and due to its similar price point and power, the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
The e-Tron offers a more spacious cabin, about 40 more miles of range on a charge, and it starts about $5,000 cheaper than the Volvo, but that’s only for the base “40” model which has far less power (201-horsepower,). The e-Tron 50 still has just 295-horsepower, to the Volvo’s 402-horsepower, though it’s added practicality could sway some buyers.
The Tesla Model Y is slightly pricier than the Volvo and less powerful, but it charges faster and has a bigger cabin. The GV60 starts above the asking price for the top-spec Recharge, though it does come with more features, faster charging, a larger infotainment screen and a range of up to 248 miles.
The I-Pace has similar power at 394-horsepower,, but it takes far longer to charge and it is significantly more expensive with a starting price of over $72,000. The Mustang Mach-E starts around $6,000 less than the Recharge and has similar charging times, a comparable list of amenities, and similar exterior dimensions, while the Recharge has 14 less cubic feet of storage space.
However, the electrified Mustang has just 266 horsepower, and springing for the 480-horsepower, setup requires an MSRP of at least $65,795. It should be noted that up against any of these models, the Recharge’s driving range is only similar to the lowest ranges of its competition, and plenty offer significantly more miles per charge.
To summarize, given the XC40 Recharge’s power, range, and size, it doesn’t have much of an absolute direct competitor. But considering Volvo has always been a bit of a left-field choice among luxury buyers, this seems somewhat fitting. Ultimately, the Recharge seems best aimed at those wanting a supremely sprightly and quite compact EV SUV who prioritize performance over driving range.
FAQ
Q: What is the actual range of the Volvo XC40 Recharge?
The 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge has an EPA estimated range of 223 miles.
Q: What is the battery warranty on a 2023 Volvo XC40?
Volvo offers a 8year/100,000 mile warranty on the battery pack of the Volco XC40 Recharge.
Q: How much is the new Volvo XC40 Recharge?
The 2023 Volco XC40 Recharge carries a starting MSRP of $53,550.
Q: Can I charge XC40 to 100%?
In order to extend the life of the battery, it is recommended that you maintain a charge between 20-80 percent. Charging that battery pack to 100 percent regularly is not recommended.
Q: What is the tax credit for the Volvo XC40 Recharge in 2023?
The Volvo XC40 Recharge no longer qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit.