2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge Review

Intro

The 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge stands as a testament to Volvo’s commitment to electrification, offering a refined balance of style, performance, and sustainability. This compact luxury electric SUV sees a notable update this year with the addition of a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant, providing extended range compared to the dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) version. With its sleek Scandinavian design, Google-powered infotainment, and advanced driver-assistance features, the XC40 Recharge aims to blend luxury with practicality.

Thanks to Volvo Canada, I had one week to test drive the 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge. Below is my unbiased review.

Exterior

True to Volvo’s design philosophy, the XC40 Recharge maintains its signature minimalist aesthetic while incorporating bold, modern elements. The compact crossover features clean lines, a high beltline, and a boxy yet sophisticated stance that gives it a distinctive presence on the road. Despite its slightly rugged silhouette, the XC40 Recharge leans more towards elegance than off-road aggression.

Key Exterior Features:

• Thor’s Hammer LED Headlights: Signature Volvo design that adds a sleek, futuristic appeal.
• Closed Front Grille: Since it’s an EV, there’s no need for a traditional grille, giving the front end a smooth, contemporary look.
• 19-inch 5-Spoke Black Diamond Cut Wheels (standard on Core and Plus trims, with 20-inch wheels available on Ultimate trim)
• Two-Tone Paint Options: The blacked-out roof contrasts nicely with select body colors, enhancing its sporty edge.
• Vertical LED Taillights: Extending up the pillars, these lights reinforce the premium look while maintaining Volvo’s distinctive rear-end styling.

Overall, the XC40 Recharge looks premium and stylish, making it a head-turner without trying too hard.

Interior

Stepping inside the XC40 Recharge, you’re welcomed by a beautifully executed Scandinavian interior that focuses on sustainability and simplicity. Volvo has cleverly used recycled materials throughout the cabin while maintaining a luxurious feel.

Cabin Highlights:

• Sustainable Materials: The use of partially recycled textiles and microtech upholstery enhances the eco-friendly ethos.
• Illuminated Topography-Inspired Trim: A unique touch that adds character to the dashboard, especially at night.
• Panoramic Sunroof (available on Plus and Ultimate trims): Enhances the airy feel of the cabin.
• Minimalist Center Console: Offers ample storage while keeping clutter to a minimum.
• Seating Comfort: The front seats are well-cushioned and supportive, ideal for long journeys. The rear seats, while comfortable for shorter trips, might feel a bit tight for taller adults.

While the cabin design is visually stunning, some usability concerns exist, particularly with the placement of some controls within the infotainment system. The lack of dedicated physical buttons for features such as activating a steering wheel warmer is an unfortunate trend in the industry.

Infotainment

Volvo has fully embraced Google’s ecosystem, with the XC40 Recharge featuring a Google-based infotainment system. While it offers excellent functionality, there are some quirks.

Key Infotainment Features:

• 9-inch Touchscreen: Responsive but sometimes slow when switching between menus.
• Google Maps Integration: Provides seamless navigation, but occasional glitches were observed during testing.
• Google Assistant: Allows voice control for navigation, climate settings, and music playback.
• Apple CarPlay: Wired-only, which is a drawback for those who prefer wireless connectivity.
• 12-inch Digital Instrument Cluster: Crisp and easy to read, offering useful driving data.

A major downside is that climate controls are embedded within the touchscreen, requiring multiple taps to make simple adjustments. This can be distracting while driving.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Volvo has always been synonymous with safety, and the XC40 Recharge is no exception. Standard across all trims are numerous advanced safety features designed to protect both the driver and passengers.

Standard Safety Features:

• Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping Assistance
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Adaptive Cruise Control (found in higher trims but with slightly late braking tendencies)
• 360-Degree Parking Camera (Ultimate trim)

Overall, the safety package is comprehensive, though adaptive cruise control could benefit from smoother operation.

Driving Experience

The XC40 Recharge is offered in two powertrain options:

• Single-Motor RWD: Producing 248 hp, it provides a well-balanced drive with improved efficiency.
• Dual-Motor AWD: Packs 402 hp for a more dynamic, quicker acceleration experience.

Driving Impressions:

• Acceleration: The single-motor version is adequate for daily driving, but the AWD variant is significantly quicker (0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds).
• Handling: The switch to RWD gives the XC40 a more traditional, balanced driving feel.
• Ride Quality: The weight of the battery is noticeable but well-managed, with the suspension absorbing road imperfections smoothly.
• One-Pedal Driving: Available for energy recuperation, making city driving more efficient.

With a fuel efficiency rating of 19.7 kWh/100 km, the XC40 Recharge is fairly efficient in its class.

Cargo Space & Storage

For a compact crossover, the XC40 Recharge is impressively practical.

Cargo Capacity:

• 452 L behind the rear seats
• 1,328 L with the rear seats folded flat
• Small Frunk for additional storage
• Rear Cargo Area Features: A clever built-in divider helps organize items, preventing them from rolling around.

While the rear seats are slightly cramped for adults, families with young children will find the space adequate.

Conclusion

The 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge is a compelling choice for those looking for a premium electric crossover with a Scandinavian touch. The introduction of a rear-wheel-drive variant improves efficiency and extends range, making the vehicle more appealing to a broader audience. While the minimalist interior design and high-quality materials create a luxurious cabin, the infotainment system’s usability quirks and climate control integration could be improved. On the road, the XC40 Recharge delivers a well-balanced and refined driving experience, with solid power and a smooth ride. Practical cargo space and Volvo’s commitment to safety further bolster its appeal. However, at a starting price of $62,570, and an as-tested price of $75,770, it sits at the higher end of the segment. That said, for those who value Scandinavian style, advanced safety, and a premium electric experience, the XC40 Recharge is an attractive option in the luxury EV space.