As part of Volvo’s aim for EVs to make up half of its global sales by 2025, Volvo has launched a brand-new addition to its award-winning XC40 line-up – the XC40 Recharge. And while it isn’t a pure EV – that’s coming later – there’s plenty to shout about in the plug-in hybrid variant of this sleek compact SUV.
Part petrol. Part electric.
The XC40 Recharge plug-in hybrid has an electric motor that delivers just enough power – 80bhp from a stop – to see you around town. But if you need some extra oomph for overtaking on motorways or to tackle steeper hills, the 1.5-litre petrol engine will kick in when you need it to. And it’s easy on fuel, too. The XC40 Recharge features up to 28 miles of pure electric range and takes three hours to fully charge, and – according to Volvo – can cover up to 700 miles with petrol and electric power combined. As always, your mileage will vary depending on where and how you drive.
A sustainable drive
Sustainability takes centre stage without compromising on comfort, safety or driving pleasure. There are zero tailpipe emissions while driving around town as well as lower CO2 emissions (47–55g/km) when you’re using the car’s petrol engine. But what makes this car really special is its use of sustainably sourced materials for its interior – most notably, all of the XC40 Recharge’s carpets are crafted entirely from recycled plastic.
Industry-leading safety features
When you buy a new Volvo, you know you’re in safe hands – Volvo is committed to eliminating deaths and serious accidents in all their new cars. It’s an audacious goal, but looking at the XC40’s extensive range of safety kit, it’s one that feels fully attainable. There’s a 360-degree camera to help navigate even the tightest of parking spaces; a suite of driver assistance technology to avoid collisions with pedestrians, animals and other vehicles; and even driver alert systems including cross traffic alert and warnings for oncoming vehicles.
Innovation at its heart
This wouldn’t be a Volvo without clever Scandinavian-style touches. Not only is the XC40 Recharge a pleasure to drive, but it’s also designed with family life in mind. There’s a generous amount of space in the back and lots of storage options from bag hooks to roomy door bins, plus hidden storage compartments to help avoid clutter in the cabin. You can make the most of sunny days with the XC40 Recharge’s ‘tilt and slide’ panoramic roof, or crank up your favourite playlist with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, too.