Cars/ First-drive/ Volvo C40 Recharge | Wolf In Sheep's Clothing | First Drive Review

Volvo C40 Recharge | Wolf In Sheep's Clothing | First Drive Review

The XC40 Recharge was quite a success for Volvo, and now, to bank on that success is their second EV.

For

Ballistic Performance, practicality, best-in-class audio system

Against

I've honestly got nothing bad to say.

Overview

As a brand, Volvo is known for its minimal approach and sophisticated interiors. It's a brand we usually associate with buses, but lately, their products have turned heads and lured folks away from the Germans. The XC40 was one such vehicle that didn't only dominate as diesel and petrol but even as an EV. Built on Volvo's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), the C40 also shares its platform with the XC40 Recharge, with specific improvements essentially down to aesthetics. The XC40 Recharge was always understated, which was part of its charm. But it existed in a segment where flamboyance seems to be in demand; with the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the KIA EV6 bringing in their stylish versions, it was about time Volvo did something to spice things up. Thus, the all-new C40 Recharge.

Is the C40 Recharge worth the purchase?

It's a big yes for me. But for someone looking for a more practical purchase, I can see why someone would gravitate towards the IONIQ 5, which packs enough performance and much more practicality. These two cars shouldn't attract the same buyer. The C40 Recharge buyer seeks simplicity with a touch of glitz and is a petrol head converted from combustion to electrification. The quality touches sprinkled across the cabin, the elegance, the mind-numbing performance, and the orgasmic sound system come together to sway any petrolhead. I feel like one of those guys, and I would love to get my hands on a C40 Recharge. However, I hope Volvo manages to undercut its competition, making this quite a bargain. 



TopGear Magazine April 2024