By: Charles Molefe
In the saturated market of SUVs, finding a vehicle that genuinely stands out and excites is a rare gem. This time, I had the distinct pleasure of test-driving the Volvo XC40 Recharge, an SUV that often flies under the radar for many South African consumers. Unfortunately, such a remarkable vehicle goes unnoticed, perhaps due to marketing challenges or the persistent stereotype that Volvos are vehicles for an older demographic. I aim to dispel this myth and share my exhilarating experience with this electrifying SUV that even outpaced a nimble German sports coupe.
Aesthetics
Volvo has consistently stayed true to its distinctive design philosophy, producing vehicles that exude a unique blend of elegance and class through bold yet understated aesthetics. The XC40 Recharge perfectly embodies this ethos, presenting a look that is sophisticated enough for the golf course yet spirited enough to turn heads wherever it goes. My test vehicle was dressed in a striking Vapour Grey paint, reminiscent of the iconic Nardo Grey from a renowned German automaker. This hue, with its subtle matte like finish, enhanced the XC40 Recharge’s premium appeal, making it an undeniable presence on the road.
From the signature, Thor’s Hammer LED headlights to the clean, sculpted lines that define its silhouette, the XC40 Recharge makes a statement without shouting. The design is both modern and timeless, ensuring it remains stylish for years to come. Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The minimalist dashboard, adorned with a sleek, tablet-style touchscreen, integrates seamlessly with the rest of the interior, providing both functionality and a touch of futuristic charm.
Performance
To put it simply, the XC40 Recharge delivers explosive performance from the moment you press the accelerator. There’s no lag—just instant power that propels the vehicle with startling force. Driving an electric car for the first time can be a revelation, with the immediate torque providing a thrilling experience akin to a roller-coaster ride. The XC40 Recharge generates an impressive 300 kW and 660 Nm of torque, enabling this 2.1-tonne SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4.8 seconds. Power is seamlessly delivered to all four wheels, maintaining traction and stability even under hard acceleration, up to its limited top speed of 180 km/h.
This kind of relentless performance is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, making every drive a delight. The twin electric motors work in perfect harmony, ensuring smooth and effortless acceleration without the noise and vibrations associated with traditional internal combustion engines. The ride quality is superb, with the XC40 Recharge absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease, providing a comfortable and composed driving experience.
Running Costs
Throughout my test drive, I frequently encountered questions about how electric cars operate, leading to enlightening discussions about the automotive industry’s push towards sustainability. Although the battery manufacturing process has environmental impacts, the overall shift to electric vehicles marks significant progress in reducing carbon emissions. With an expanding infrastructure, transitioning to a fully electric car is becoming increasingly practical.
Charging the 82kWh XC40 at home proved to be convenient, especially during a period free of load shedding. On a prepaid municipal system, recharging from 15% to 52% costs roughly R50. While home charging is slower, it’s manageable considering my typical daily commute of 95 km, which uses about 30% of the battery. The claimed range of 500 km is optimistic but I doubt it is achievable, with a light foot; however, spirited driving will reduce the range, as is the case with any vehicle.
Conclusion
The Volvo XC40 Recharge is an outstanding SUV that combines exceptional performance, stylish design, and the practicality of electric power. It’s unfortunate that more consumers aren’t aware of its capabilities, but those who discover it will find a vehicle that exceeds expectations and offers a glimpse into the future of driving.
This SUV is not just a car; it’s a statement of progress and a testament to modern engineering excellence. The XC40 Recharge stands as a beacon of what modern SUVs can offer: sustainability without compromising on luxury, performance, or style. For those willing to look beyond the usual suspects, this vehicle promises a truly thrilling driving experience.
Gottagged Rating
9.5 / 10
Price
R1,298,000.00 including 15% VAT
Warranty
5-year / 100,000 km vehicle warranty & 8-year / 160,000 km battery warranty**
Maintenance
5-year / 100,000 km full maintenance plan**
Features
- Volvo on Call for 5 years
- Charging Cable for public charging stations
- Home charging wall box
- iCUP with Google Automotive Services
- Intellisafe Assist (includes City Safety with pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection and front and rear collision warning with full auto brake)
- Road Sign Information (RSI)
- Lane Keeping Aid (LKA)
- Keyless entry with remote tag and Power operated tailgate
- 360° camera
- Panoramic sunroof
Recharge Care Package
- Volvo on Call for 5 years
- Charging Cable for public charging stations
- Home charging wall box
- Harman Kardon Premium Sound
- Wireless phone charging**
- Heated steering wheel and front & rear seats
- 20″ 5-spoke Black Diamond-cut Alloy wheels
