Volvo C40: Price, Versions, and Range of the Electric SUV

More sporty and exclusive variation of the Volvo XC 40, the C40 SUV offers a choice between three trim levels and three powertrains.

For several years now, we have been seeing a rise in coupe SUVs, notably from BMW with its now famous X4 and X6, but also from Mercedes with its GLC and GLE coupes. This segment is also of interest to French brands, such as Renault, which sells its Arkana quite well. At Volvo, owned by the Chinese group Geely, the XC 40 served as the basis for our C40, but only in the 100% electric version.

Dimensions and Interior of the Volvo C40

Whether you like Swedish vehicles or not, it’s clear that the Volvo C40 features a unique line that differs from the typical SUVs we see daily. The front of the C40 is largely similar to that of the XC 40, but it is distinguished by its rear design, with a sharply inclined roofline, very broad shoulder lines, and a tailgate that tapers in a ducktail style… appealing to GT enthusiasts! Finally, the double spoiler emphasizes the “bad boy” side of the C40 and enhances its aerodynamics, mainly to improve efficiency rather than top speed, which is limited as expected on an electric.

The dimensions remain fairly compact for the French market, measuring 4.44 meters in length, 1.87 meters in width, and 1.59 meters in height. The fairly generous body protections will appeal to city drivers.

The interior of the Volvo C40 Recharge is identical to that of the XC40 Recharge. It benefits from the same high-quality craftsmanship with carefully finished recycled plastics and assembly comparable to top premium vehicles. Notably, Volvo has eliminated genuine leather in its interiors, using alternative materials that do not quite match the warmth or smell of leather but do the “job” effectively.

In terms of technology, the digital screen with a 9-inch diagonal is distinctive and quite readable. The central tablet, 12 inches, is developed in partnership with Google and runs on Android software. While information updates are real-time and over-the-air, the interface feels outdated and navigating through various menus can be tricky. As for space, it is sufficient for four passengers, especially given the generous wheelbase. The trunk is modest (413 liters), but the C40 offers a bonus with a second front trunk (31 liters).

Motors and Performance of the Volvo C40

At launch, only one powertrain was available for the Volvo C40. With an electric motor on each axle, the C40 Twin boasts a combined output of 408 hp and an enormous torque of 660 Nm! Acceleration is almost instantaneous, pinning the driver and passengers to their seats. With a 0 to 100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds, even Porsche needs to watch out.

The more recent version, introduced at the end of 2022, with a single electric motor, delivers a respectable 238 hp and 330 Nm of torque. It achieves a very respectable 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds.

The new feature for 2023 is called Extended Range, which, as its name suggests, offers a better battery. Its power is set at 252 hp.

Range and Charging of the Volvo C40

The smaller 69 kWh battery provides a range of 477 km for the Volvo C40, representing about a 30 km increase compared to the previous generation. The new Extended Range version offers a significant improvement with an 82 kWh unit, allowing for an estimated 534 km on a full charge according to the WLTP cycle.

For the Twin version, with its 408 hp, the range now reaches 507 km with some modifications, representing a 60 km increase in estimated range.

Charging times have also improved, especially for the Extended Range version with larger batteries, with quick charging capability up to 200 kW in DC, allowing a recharge from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes.

Price and Versions of the Volvo C40

In the French market, as of the time of writing, the 2023 Volvo C40 lineup is composed of the following: Start, Plus, and Ultimate.

Start: Android infotainment system with Google services, Panoramic sunroof, Front and rear parking sensors, Reversing camera, Collision mitigation system…

Plus: Pilot Assist, Blind Spot Information System BLIS™ with rear traffic alert, Electric tailgate, Adaptive cruise control (ACC)…

Ultimate: Premium Harman/Kardon sound system, 360-degree panoramic camera, Electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, High-pressure headlight washers…