Not that you’ve been living under a rock, but in case you weren’t aware, Volvo now offers a single-motor version of its cutesy XC40 Recharge electric compact SUVs, adding options to those who like their EVs with a little bit more oomph. Of course one would think that a less powerful setup means lag, these machines certainly have their charms. Well, with that, here’s my time with the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
In terms of looks, the single-motor XC40 Recharge sports a familiar look. It’s exactly like its ICE counterpart we’ve made acquaintance with over the past 9 years. The only difference here is the blocked out front grille. As all electric vehicles do because there’s no need for any air intakes – right. Right. Those signature Thor daytime running lights are ever so striking. Then there’s new 19-inch wheel designs.
Inside, you get the infamous but ageing Vovo interior with the 9-inch tablet-like infotainment screen right in the centre. Both he infotainment and instrument cluster are powered by Google and feature a host of Google service like maps and voice assistance which really add to the experience – in a good way. Apple CarPlay is supported, strangely only wired. The rest of the interior is clean and stylish, with some Scandanavian easter eggs to add texture and eco-conscious premium materials.
When it comes to driving, the best way I can put it is that what the single-motor XC40 loses in power, it makes up for in driving character and on-road manners. The driving range is rather welcomed, as are the charging speeds. You certainly don’t miss the extra power from the dual-motors. This is perfect for running about town, daily drives to work, school runs and everything else in-between. The rear-wheel drive gives the models a unique handling boost, one that I quite plenty enjoyed. There’s no sense to understeer if you find yourself in a tight corner.
When it comes to charging, the XC40 Rechange can accept DC fast charging, with the bigger packs in the single motor being able handle a much higher rate. Filling up at the 200 kW charger at Mall of Africa is a treat. From a single charge alone we got about 430km of pure electric range, while Volvo’s own numbers sit at ‘up to 485 km’. Max engine power is a feisty 175 kW and 420 Nm which is quite impressive for this little runabout.
When I look back at the XC40, I see loads of appeal, with the single-motor making it so much easier to like. The price of the XC40 Recharge Single-Motor (Plus) comes in at R1 108 000. Its the not most affordable, but for the price tag you get so much more car. I’d rather have one of these than, say, a Mercedes-Benz EQB.
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