2022 Volvo C40
only vehicle without a hybrid or gas sibling. The small hatchback SUV has further forward-thinking features. It has a luxury feel and design but a leather interior is not available. Instead, seats are upholstered with synthetic fabrics made from recycled materials. It looks upscale and modern.
Swedish design touches include a contoured large panoramic sunroof. Backlit trim panels on the dashboard and illuminated doors reveal an abstract representation of a topographic map. It also defines a modern style, which also features cleverly designed and strategically placed storage areas.
Like other EVs, the C40 Recharge is surprisingly quick. Its 0-to-60 miles per hour rating is 4.7 seconds. Further, while Volvo vehicles are rarely cited for their zip, the new Volvo passed vehicles with authority. It also bolts its way after spotlights and if potentially difficult situations. The C40 Recharge is rated at 94 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) and 80 MPGe on the freeway.
As a vehicle of Volvo’s immediate future, the C40 Recharge has further uniqueness. It has a frunk, situated behind the grille less front. There’s little space in the opening, with the charging cables and perhaps a small travel bag and a blanket filling the small, shallow cavity.
Hatchbacks inherently have two limitations; the C40 Recharge shares the shortcomings. Its sloping roofline means less headroom for rear-seat passengers. Similar to Prius models, the driver’s rearview is limited and split in half by the lift-back styling.
The C40’s most unique characteristic for drivers unfamiliar with one-pedal driving is the option not to brake when it’s not necessary. It’s the same deceleration feeling offered while driving a golf cart. Release the gas pedal and the system slows the car to three miles per hour before friction brakes engage. Once a learning curve is mastered, not having to use the brakes is refreshing.
With competition from the Audi Q4, Mercedes-Benz EQA and Tesla Model Y, perhaps the only major issue with C40s changes success is its lack of availability. It can only be purchased online, with its future available at Volvo dealerships unknown.
Still, the vehicle’s strengths prevail, from its efficiency to environmental benefits. The new Volvo is eligible for HOV lane use. It’s also available for a $7,500 tax credit from the federal government and a $2,000 tax credit from the State of California.
The top-line C40 Recharge, with option packages, costs about $63,000 before a possible $9,500 tax credit. The reduced tally provides further reasoning why the new Volvo is a worthy electriccar debutante. And it’s a strong start for Volvo in its electric-only quest.