Is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge a Good Electric SUV? 3 Pros and 5 Cons Volvo joins other European brands in introducing a coupelike version of its XC40 SUV, meaning the boxy design is more elegant if less practical, with a lowered roofline and less interior space. The result is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge, an all-electric, four-door ‘coupe’.
Is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge a Good Electric SUV? 3 Pros and 5 Cons
Unlike the more traditional XC40 SUV with which it shares the platform, interior components and more, the C40 Recharge comes only as an electric vehicle; No petrol version offered. This is fine for fans of alternative energy, but not for those who buy SUVs for their extra carry and passenger room.
However, our problems with the C40 Recharge go beyond its lower ceiling and more slender shape. Competing vehicles offer greater range, faster charging times and better technology features that are easier to use.
The C40 Recharge isn’t a bad car, and it’s likely to appeal to buyers who put style over practicality but still want SUV attributes like higher ride height and AWD. They are just better options available.
For a comprehensive look at the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge, click on the link above to read Aaron Bragman’s expert review. For a quicker look at three things we love and five we want to improve, read on.
Is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge a Good Electric SUV? 3 Pros and 5 Cons
The things we love
1. Powertrain
With an electric motor per axle, standard all-wheel drive and an overall system of 402 horsepower, the C40 Recharge isn’t slow. Its power is delivered seamlessly, and Volvo claims it sprints from 0-60 mph for 4.7 seconds. The problem is that it doesn’t feel particularly fast. No “sport” mode is offered, and it requires a heavy foot to feel all that powerful.
2. Easy handler
The C40 Recharge has been tuned to provide an effortless driving experience rather than a spirited drive. This is neither good nor bad, but one of the advantages is the comfortable ride. The bumps and road imperfections are largely silent, and the ride is generally smooth. Electronically adjustable steering allows for faster response and feedback, but cranking out into the sport normally can make the C40 feel cramped on the highway.
3. Internal implementation
Volvo has done a great job with the C40’s cabin, which earns points for its clean design, high-quality materials and upscale looks. The dash is very similar to the XC40, which isn’t a bad thing. Added features include decorative trim that turns translucent at night and comfortable hard seats for long distances. There’s plenty of legroom in the front and rear, but back seat passengers may find there’s a lack of headroom.
Is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge a Good Electric SUV? 3 Pros and 5 Cons
Things we don’t like
Is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge a Good Electric SUV? 3 Pros and 5 Cons
1. Aggressive single pedal mode
Like many electric vehicles, the C40 Recharge is equipped with a single-pedal drive mode, providing increased regenerative braking to help charge the battery and increase range. The problem is that Volvo’s system is so aggressive that smooth adjustment is a challenge and can turn hapless passengers into bloody heads.
2. Cabin noise
Wind and road noise levels are surprisingly high, which may be due at least in part to the lack of a traditional powertrain and associated soundtrack. However, the noise level surprised us and kept the C40 from the quiet interior of some electric vehicles.
3. Poor vision
In addition to stealing height, another drawback of the low roofline is poor visibility. The rearview mirror provides no view of the horizon behind the car, even with the driver’s seat at its lowest. The raised belt line rises toward the rear, which results in significant blind spots, and the lack of a rear wiper means it’s hard to maintain a clear view of the rear. Recharging the XC40 has none of these issues.
Is the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge a Good Electric SUV? 3 Pros and 5 Cons
4. Limited range
With an EPA-rated range of 226 miles, the C40 Recharge isn’t the best EV of choice for road trips. Many competitors can travel farther between tolls, which can be a big problem for long-distance drivers and families. The best news is that the DC fast charging capability can take the C40 to recharge from 10% to 80% in about 28 minutes, according to Volvo.
5. Electronic errors
Volvo has worked with Google for its multimedia operating system, and the results are mixed at best. Many functions simply did not work in our test car, including voice commands for the radio. We’re also not a fan of the digital gauge cluster, which is uninteresting to look at and limited in its functionality.
