Global Courant
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The sporty Volvo C40 Recharge has arrived in South Africa. The automotive industry has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including production interruptions, logistical challenges, rising raw material prices and delayed model launches. As a niche brand in our market, Volvo South Africa has had to face quite a few challenges, but the worst is over and the brand is on the rise. Volvo has an exciting new product range planned for our country, starting with the stylish coupe SUV, the C40 Recharge.
The Volvo C40 Recharge, the brand’s first dedicated BEV excluding the Polestar sub-brand, enters the market as a competitor to emerging models such as the BMW iX1 and Mercedes-Benz EQA/EQB. Essentially, the C40 Recharge is a sportier version of the hugely successful XC40 premium compact crossover. Just as the Q3 Sportback differs from the Audi Q3, Volvo’s debutant has a sloping roofline and tailgate that deviates from the traditional square rear. This streamlined silhouette isn’t just for show; Volvo claims the optimized aerodynamics contribute to the BEV’s extended range.
In terms of range, the C40 Recharge is equipped with a 78 kWh battery that gives an impressive estimated range of 444 km according to the WLTP test. Charging options are varied, ranging from the slowest, a 3.5 kWh home plug, to a Volvo-installed free wallbox with a capacity of 11 kWh (provided your home can supply three-phase electricity). The wallbox produces 50 to 60 km of power per hour, allowing a full charge in about 8 hours. Those with access to a 150 kWh DC charger can charge the C40 Recharge from 10% to 80% in about 37 minutes.
The C40 Recharge is powered by a two-motor setup driving all four wheels, resulting in impressive performance figures. Volvo’s first brand BEV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, thanks to an output of 300 kW and a torque of 660 Nm. These specifications suggest a departure from Volvo’s reputation for safe and conservative vehicles, and emphasize the performance-oriented nature of the C40 Recharge.
The cabin of the C40 Recharge immediately makes a lasting impression. With premium materials and impeccable fit and finish, the interior exudes minimalist elegance. A fully designed space incorporates smart packaging and design elements, such as leather-free seats and the use of recycled materials in much of the interior.
You have an impressive view of the surroundings while sitting in the driver’s seat, giving the impression of being behind the wheel of a larger vehicle. The interior panels feature a beautifully illuminated pattern reminiscent of a topographical map, adding a touch of sophistication, especially in low-light conditions. Volvo South Africa offers the C40 Recharge in the Ultimate trim level, which includes a panoramic roof, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a Harman Kardon audio system and an electrically powered tailgate.
Blind Spot Monitoring, Pilot Assist, Lane Tracking System, City Safety and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are just some of the safety features available on the C40 Recharge.
When it comes to optional extras, there aren’t many options. Specific exterior finishes, Pixel LED headlights and textured interior trim pieces appear to be complimentary options. It’s worth noting that the latest generation of Volvos no longer use Senses Connect’s native infotainment and systems management software, as the brand has moved to Google Automotive. This tweak allows the C40 Recharge to receive over-the-air updates and access various Google services, including Maps and Google Assistant, as well as popular apps such as Spotify, Waze and YouTube Music. Apple users need not worry, as CarPlay is also supported. In particular, Google Maps has been adapted for the model, allowing users to quickly find nearby charging stations.
Now let’s talk about the driving experience of the Volvo C40 Recharge. We were grateful for the 4-wheel drive system at our launch event because the roads were wet. The ease of use of the model is refreshing: unlock the car, get in, select Drive or Reverse on the transmission lever and you’re ready to go. Unless you opt for single-pedal driving, which maximizes regenerative braking, there’s no start button or drive mode to navigate.
The C40 Recharge delivers exhilarating acceleration thanks to its peak power of 300 kW and torque of 600 Nm. When the accelerator pedal is fully depressed, the Volvo accelerates remarkably well, both when starting from a standstill and when overtaking on the road.
While the straight-line performance of the C40 Recharge is enjoyable, it lacks the same power in corners. The steering lacks the desired weight and feedback, and the model feels somewhat top-heavy. Nevertheless, this feature isn’t necessarily a drawback, as the average C40 Recharge owner is unlikely to drive aggressively through twisty mountain passes. Instead, owners will likely appreciate the Volvo’s quiet and refined cabin, occasionally using the power at their disposal to quickly pass slower traffic. Despite the car’s large 20-inch alloy wheels, the ride remains composed even on rougher tarmac sections. However, some small potholes and ruts have a noticeable impact on the cabin. It would have been preferable to have a 19-inch wheel with a higher profile tire as an option.
Finally, let’s see how much the Volvo C40 Recharge costs in South Africa. The vehicle includes a maintenance plan and warranty of 5 years/100,000 kilometers, with the battery pack covered for an additional 8 years/160,000 kilometers. Volvo also supplies a wallbox charger with an additional 7 meter charging cable when purchasing the vehicle.
R1,285,000 is the price of a Volvo C40 charging in South Africa.
