For the latest Volvo XC40 Recharge pricing and information:
https://www.kbb.com/volvo/xc40-recharge/

While this may look like a run-of-the-mill Volvo XC40, or should I say run-by-the-mill XC40, it’s not.

This is the all-electric XC40 Recharge.

For the next couple of minutes, we’re just going to talk about the new powertrain, so if you’re looking for a full review of the excellent combustion engine XC40, then check out our full review here.


This electric XC40 rides on the same platform as the gas-powered mini-ute, but that’s because it was initially designed to accommodate an EV version. Engine options our, two motors and a battery in.

The results on the engine to motor swap are tangible.

Acceleration times are quick. 0-60 takes about 4.7 seconds. That’s not a lot of time for a small hauler like this one.

You can thank that time for the Recharge’s power. 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque respectively, which of course, because this is electric, is instant. Yummy.


The second bonus is the way that substantial power is put down by all four wheels.

Where in the gas-powered models the XC40 experienced some tire spin, and perhaps even some torque steer, this Recharge version sees none of that. It’s just true power being put down when and where you want it.


The XC40 Recharge’s balance doesn’t feel thrown off for the new motor configuration. It gets real-life one-pedal braking, which you can disable if you prefer, which I actually do, and cargo space hasn’t been greatly compromised either. Hey, look, there’s a little frunk.


Some spots that might leave you a bit blanched include its price. The premium for the Recharge is steep, to the tune of a $55,000 base price.


The other drawback is its range, in that it’s only got 208 miles of it from a 75kW battery.

Back in the plus column for Google users, both the 12.3-inch gauge cluster and 9-inch infotainment screen now take orders from Android Automotive, which syncs contacts, calendars, and addresses for easier navigation integration.


Overall, color us intrigued by Volvo’s march into the subcompact crossover future. At KBB, we’re already huge fans of the XC40.

We named it a Best Buy in the subcompact luxury category for 2019.

And we happen to think the XC40 Recharge is going to generate a lot of buzz, too. Get it, buzz, cause that’s how the motors sound?

00:00 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge
0:16 Motor
1:14 Driving Impressions
1:52 Pricing
2:15 Interior