Quick Take: 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge
With electric vehicles becoming more and more popular due to rising prices of gasoline, Volvo has expanded into the fray with the all-electric C40 Recharge. Based on the popular XC40 subcompact SUV, the C40 has a sloping rear roofline for a sportier look while providing a higher-than-normal ride height for extra comfort. The Cartrast team had the chance to try out the C40 during the MPG Drive Day event in Malibu, California and we came away amazed at the amount of poise and fun we experienced.
The C40 we drove was a top-of-the-line Twin Ultimate version which brought additional features such as a 360-degree surround view camera, a Harman/Kardon sound system, keyless drive, the Pilot Assist driver assistance system, adaptive cruise control, heated rear seats, and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Numerous features came standard, such as a 12.3-inch digital driver display, a 9-inch center touchscreen for the infotainment system that came with Google Automotive Services (Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store), Pixel LED front headlights, blind spot information system, lane departure warning, a textile interior made from recycled materials, and heated power front seats with 4-way lumbar support.
Our C40 test vehicle had the Twin powertrain, which consisted of both front and rear electric motors which provided up to 402 horsepower and permanent all-wheel-drive for added traction. Range is an estimated 226 miles on a full charge. On the sinuous roads of Malibu, the C40 was definitely a handler and could power out of the corners with ease. Ride quality was exceptional as well and the cabin proved to be a very relaxing place, helped by the topography backlit panels (modeled after areas of Sweden’s Abisko National Park) in the front doors. Buyers of the C40 will likely also favor the complimentary 1-year subscription to Electrify America chargers and 4 years or 50,000 miles of factory scheduled maintenance.
Overall, we think the C40 will definitely be a standout in the electric vehicle market, offering a welcome blend of efficiency, performance, and comfort. Plenty of thought went into the C40 and it very much shows after our experience with the car. We think that whoever gets behind the wheel of the C40 will cherish it almost immediately.
