The C40 is smaller than a Tesla Model Y, but cheaper, too.
Volvo didn’t need to make its smallest EV this powerful or this fun, but I’m glad it did. The acceleration is great and the range is sufficient, but the native Android operating system leaves a lot to be desired.The Volvo C40 Recharge is smaller than a Tesla Model Y, but it’s cheaper, too.More and more manufacturers are rolling out their second or even third generation of EVs, battery-powered cars rolling on chassis specifically designed to hold electric motors, not engines.
A laminated, tinted glass roof caps it all off, letting in plenty of light without the glare. At night, the door and dash inlays emit a glow so subtle you’ll think at first you’re seeing things. It’s a stellar effect that’s less gaudy but no less memorable than the technicolor LEDs common on so many modern German luxury machines.
Again and again, over multiple loans, I exceeded the EPA rating while finding the integrated range estimates from Google Maps to be on the money. That’s not only encouraging but also impressive because, when I’m driving this thing, I can’t resist a little speed.You see, this may look like a buttoned-up and slightly cute crossover SUV, but it’s actually a little bit of a rocket ship. The C40 Recharge delivers 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque from its pair of electric motors.
My favorite part of the sound system is the giant volume knob with an integrated play / pause button that Volvo is still kindly putting in all of its cars. That knob has enough weight that giving it a good counterclockwise spin to mute the audio is incredibly satisfying. Meanwhile, I’m always left wondering why more manufacturers don’t include dedicated play / pause buttons, as I find myself using them all the time on any Volvo I test.