The 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge Ultimate is a great looking small SUV and comes equipped with lots of standard features that may be of interest. Volvos are known for their comfort more so than their performance but with the XC-40, you get to experience both. Although its electric driving range is not the greatest, it is a speedy SUV. If you are wanting a small electric vehicle with great power, then this XC-40 Recharge might be what you are looking for.
Engine/Transmission
The 2023 XC-40 Recharge is a twin-electric motors AWD crossover SUV. It produces 402hp and 486lb-ft of torque with a 78kWh battery. The XC-40 Recharge can reach 0-96km (60 mph) in just over 4 seconds. Like most EV vehicles, the launch is quick but with the XC-40, it is quicker and has no issues reaching above the speed limit. It is a fun speedy EV SUV. It has an electric range of about 359km (223 miles) which is not that much compared to its competitors.
Handling/Performance
The XC-40 is perfect for city driving due to its size as it is easy to maneuver in and out of parking lots and on narrow roads. Although it is not a large SUV, it does not sit low so it feels as if you are driving a bigger vehicle than what it is because of the high driving position. Driving the XC-40 is a lot of fun, you will realize it gets addicting to accelerate faster than the norm at every stop. Doing so of course drains the battery more than you’d like or want. It has a bit of a sporty feel when driving which is what makes it all that more fun to drive. The XC-40 Recharge can charge up to 80% in under an hour with a DC fast charger. Home outlets will of course take a day or two to fully charge. The battery efficiency could be better, but it may or may not affect you depending on your driving style and how far you commute. During my time with the XC-40, I averaged 22.3 kWh/100km.
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Comfort
Front seats in the XC-40 are comfortable enough for daily commutes and trips with enough adjustments to suit your seating position. The backseats are spacious enough for average height people. They can be a bit on the firm side, so you don’t want to go long periods without standing up and stretching. I was able to sit comfortably in the backseat with the driver’s seat pushed back without any issues. My knees did not touch the front seat and I did not feel squished. Normally, in small SUVs or sedans, I usually have trouble fitting comfortably in the back with my long legs but that was not an issue with the XC-40. While driving over uneven pavement, you will feel the bumps more so because of its firm drive. It is not as smooth as you’d want but it is still a decent ride.
Interior
Although the 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge does not look like a big SUV, it sure doesn’t feel as tiny as it may look. It is equipped with a 2-zone climate control, air purifier, heated front and back seats, interior lighting, suede, and leather seats to name a few cool features. It is equipped with a 12.3-inch driver display and a 9-inch touchscreen that is simple to use. Volvo is known for its glitchy system but luckily, I had no issues during my time with the XC-40. The interior feels and looks great. One thing I really like about the Ultimate trim level is the sound system. The Recharge Ultimate is equipped with the Harman Kardon sound system which makes the drive all that more enjoyable with great music. The XC-40 Recharge has storage space in the frunk for small items and of course the trunk has decent amount of cargo space.
Exterior
The XC-40 Recharge is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels. I will be honest; I am not a fan of the way it looks. It doesn’t stand out to me comparing to other less expensive vehicles. For what its worth, I would want it to be noticeable and eye catching. One thing I will say is that I did like that it didn’t sit low. It was easy to get in and out of the XC-40.
Pros and Cons
If you are looking for a small SUV that is fast, then the 2023 Volvo XC-40 Recharge is one you can consider. The XC-40 is available in three trim levels and all levels have quite a few features as standard. It is comfortable and spacious enough even though it is a crossover SUV. If you enjoy driving engaging vehicles, then you are in luck with the XC-40. It is fast! and as I mentioned earlier, you get addicted to the quick acceleration. Styling isn’t all there for me but it may for you so this may not be an issue. Electric driving range is less compared to its competitors but again all depends on how you intend to use the SUV. If you are someone that does not go out on long road trips or random long drives, then the XC-40 can be an option. The starting price for the XC-40 Recharge Ultimate as equipped is $74,350 CAD ($55,578 USD) so note that it is a bit on the higher end.
Thank you to Volvo Canada for providing the vehicle. www.VolvoCars.com
2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge Gallery
