2022 New Volvo XC40 Recharge Electric - Walkaround Details
1400:00 Intro
01:15 Walkaround
04:19 Colors
04:34 Charge with a plug
The regular gasoline-powered XC40 is charming and practical, and the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintains all that and substitutes a 402 horsepower electric powertrain with 223 miles of electric-only driving range. This boxy baby SUV competes with a growing number of small EV crossovers, including the Tesla Model Y and the Mercedes-Benz EQB. The Tesla offers more driving range, but it's not as handsome as the Volvo nor is it as thoughtfully designed. A Google-based infotainment system is on board the XC40 Recharge, and the Volvo includes a generous amount of driver-assistance features and other tech standard across the range. Looking for something with a little more flair? Check out the XC40 Recharge's coupe-like sibling, the C40 Recharge, which we review separately. Volvo has divided the XC40 Recharge's lineup into two trims for 2022, starting with the entry-level Plus and then upgrading to the loaded Ultimate. In addition, they've also reworked the SUV's powertrain software to extend range slightly to 223 miles per charge, up from last year's estimate of 208. A 360-degree exterior camera system is now standard, but the handy storage bin beneath the driver's seat has been deleted, as has the funky orange Lava carpeting option. The XC40 Recharge is offered in two trims, but we'd go with the loaded Ultimate model, which doesn’t cost that much more and comes with a host of additional equipment over the base Plus. The Ultimate gets unique 20-inch wheels, automatic high-beam headlamps, a Harman/Kardon stereo system, adaptive cruise control, and a semi-autonomous driving mode. All XC40 Recharge models will come with two electric motors, with one driving the front wheels and the second powering the rears giving it full-time all-wheel drive. The powertrain puts out a stout 402-hp, and rocketed the XC40 Recharge 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds at our test track. During our test drive, we noted a compliant ride and a refined cruising demeanor; aggressive drivers may find the Polestar 2 a better fit. Regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving, which is a desirable and convenient EV feature that we appreciate.