Wind swept

The combination of the C40’s sophistication and astonishing performance has us excited about Volvo’s all-electric future

This Volvo senses the key fob and your presence in the driver’s seat, so from the moment I was able to get in and drive this car without needing to press any ignition button, I knew this was going to be a long-term test like no other.

Even though CAR has previously spent an extended period with an egolf, it is the nature of this fastpaced new energy segment that, in little more than the two years

VOLVO C40 RECHARGE TWIN P8 AWD ULTIMATE + Future-first styling; Jekyll-and-hyde personality

that followed our electric VW experience, the playing field has changed considerably. VW is aiming to build on the ground work done in South Africa with its all-electric Golf in 2024.

The C40 is the coupé version of Volvo’s popular XC40, which will soon be joined locally by its compact EX30 cousin (see page 46). Unlike the EX30, the C40 is currently offered only in a

Infotainment system quirks

flagship derivative, fitted with the same dual-electric-motor setup as the most expensive of the seven XC40 models.

The stand-out features of the polished-looking C40 are its sweptback roofline (with a panoramic glass canopy); LED headlamps as standard along with Volvo’s signature daytime running lights; purposeful-looking 20-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass. The car’s electrical tailgate opens high, even if it does reveal a relatively small luggage compartment. This stood out to me as I have a young family, although I do acknowledge that perhaps the C40’s boutique, headturning styling targets a more carefree, urbanised consumer, much like a Mini SE.

I was initially enthusiastic that I could perform over-the-air software updates, as well as add