2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric SUV REVIEW

It’s neat, it’s petite, it’s sweet. The Volvo XC40 Recharge Electric is the bee’s knees. There is a ton of power, and handling that’s not disgraced by most drivers.

The inevitable march towards electrification can’t be stopped, not even by the appallingly expensive grid we’ve paid to upgrade. It still isn’t up to task, so the grid’s private owners had better get their skates on or risk being left behind. Even the doubting dinosaurs running the government can no longer deny that within a generation, only EVs will be available in showrooms.

So, to the Volvo XC40 Recharge. We drove the Volvo XC40 Charge Plug in Hybrid and although we liked it, we didn’t love it. It seemed a bit of a half-hearted effort and as we’ve pointed out, most won’t bother to plug it in, ever.

The ever-expanding electrified offering from the Swedish Volvo Car company includes the upcoming C40 fastback SUV High Riding Hatch. Volvo’s sister brand, Polestar, shares this platform for its Polestar 2.

The XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is a different kettle of fish to the PHEV we last drove. The flat fronted grille and discrete rear badge are the only clues as to the Pure EV drive secreted within its bowels. 20” wheels are standard on this range topper.

For those not needing the AWD dual-motor version, you can have a FWD model for fewer shekels, with a mere 170Kw/330Nm. It has a slightly longer 510km range, and a slightly slower 0-100 of 7.4 seconds, which is still nippy by any measure.

Our dual motor version boasts a lusty 300kw and 660Nm driving all 4 wheels without the need of drive modes.

Sadly, the Hammer of Thor headlights are sans Matrix function thanks to a lack of semiconductors, something that will be fixed in due course.

This Week Review: 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric Dual motor REVIEW

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ABOVE: 2022 Volvo XC40 Range

Inside:

Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric comes with the new Google OS which Volvo has been using as new models or facelifts are rolled out. We’ve mentioned the immense benefits of an OS that is built in, yet uses the power of a software titan. Google Android OS comes in Volvo XC60 and makes life so much easier. Once logged in, it can control car functions, and if connected, any home devices.

The Volvo App allows even more remote control, such as the ability to heat or cool your car, and monitor your charging status. It works through an online service so the car has to be in cell range to function.

The cabin is cosy and very quiet, even at speed. Volvo feels premium with the inherent snobbery we’ve experienced in some of the German models. it is laid out so that knobs, buttons, levers, and screens, are all easy to use.

The cargo hold is slightly comprised by awkward spaces created by the electric drive and batteries. The under-floor cubby hole stores charging cables needed for adaption to other chargers, either public or at home.

Although there is an excellent digital driver readout, there is no HUD, which is a shame.

Get the full range specifications HERE: XC40 Online Spec Sheet_JULY22

The drive:

If you don’t intend to go long distances, keep the batteries below 80%. Like most batteries, if doesn’t like fast charge past 80%. I managed a top up from 48% to 98% in the time it took to do a spot of shopping at my local Coles.

(Top Tip: the Zetland Chargefox 50Kw charger is broken so is set to free charging)

Normally, charge fox 50Kw charging costs 40c/Kwh with a 20% discount for NRMA members. You can install an 11kw outlet at home for slightly better results than from a conventional household plug.

Steering is incredibly light, but can be told to behave more sportily if needed.

On the highway, all assistants can be called into action for near autonomous driving. Don’t be fooled, they are not intended to be used to make idiot TikTok videos. We’ve all seen the “fail” videos, so just don’t do it. You’re meant to be driving, and always in charge. As with all semi-autonomous aids, there is the occasional misdemeanour. Even when using the smart radar-guided cruise, keep your foot handy near the brake just in case.

Ride is fairly firm, but those on board manage a regal glide experience in near silence. Should you wish, mashing the loafer onto the Axminster will get the little SUV to 100kph in 4.9 seconds.

The handling isn’t exactly sporty, but setting expectation is the key to really enjoying the drive. And, when you get where you’re going, an excellent 360⁰camera is better than most mirrors could possibly be. The emergency braking should take care of any lapses.

Although the cabin has a spacious feel, those in the rear can feel a little closed in with the window sill cut upwards at an odd angle.

Conclusion:

If you fancy a less expensive option, you can go for a base ICE model for under 50 grand.

The 78kwh battery is good for at least 400km, and with the promise of chargers being rolled out along well-traveled roads, interstate trips become possible.

All 2022 models are sold, with order books now open for 2023 XC40 models.

Find all the details of our test car HERE:

2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric

Price: $76,690
Motor: dual 150kw, one front and one rear
Battery: 78Kwh
Power: 300Kw/660Nm
Trans: single speed automatic
Range: Approx 415km (450km claimed)
Charging time: Approx 45mins
Max Charge Speed: 150Kw

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