The C40 Recharge, pictured here in Fjord Blue Metallic, is the first model from Volvo designed to be fully electric from the start. (Volvo)
As Volvo Cars (Volvo) edges closer to its deadline of becoming an all-electric brand by 2030, it is introducing several new electric vehicle models to fulfill this promise. Among them is the all-electric C40 Recharge crossover coupe. Volvo recently invited a select group of automotive journalists to attend a preview event where we could touch, feel, and experience the car. Here are a few noteworthy impressions.
The C40 Recharge is a Fresh Look for Volvo
As the first model from Volvo designed to be fully electric from the start, the C40 Recharge’s design indicates a significant departure for the Swedish automaker. While the C40 Recharge maintains the clean and distinctly Scandinavian lines we’ve come to expect from Volvo, the car has a wider stance and large wheels. To be sure, the C40 Recharge’s look is undeniably its own; it is not just a modified version of its SUV counterpart, the XC40 Recharge.
The Panoramic Glass Roof is a Rear Passenger’s Best Friend
Sitting in the front seat, the driver may not feel the difference between the XC40 and the C40 Recharge. That experience is more or less the same. But because a sloped rear roof is indicative of coupe styling, back-seat passengers have a lot to lose. However, thanks to the panoramic glass roof in the C40 Recharge, most rear occupants will not feel cramped or claustrophobic.
Google Built-In Makes Voice Command a Breeze
The C40 Recharge is unique in the marketplace because instead of featuring just Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it also has Google Built-In. This means that the voice commands are native to the system, powering Google Play, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. This experience provides seamless integration between the voice activation and the installed apps, which is particularly useful for the Google enthusiast.
Leather-free Doesn’t Mean Sacrificing Luxury
The new C40 Recharge features the first leather-free interior from Volvo. Because leather is commonly associated with a luxurious interior—and because Volvo is a luxury brand—it could be hard to reconcile these differences. However, the upholstery in the C40 Recharge’s interior continues to feel upscale, and the leather-like upholstery is elevated, soft to the touch, and hardly a poor substitute.
The Bold Color Options May Surprise You
Volvo painted the vehicle we experienced at the preview event Fjord Blue Metallic. It is a somewhat neutral hue on the exterior, but it became bold as it continued into the interior, creating an exciting contrast from the dark seating. According to the Volvo reps, all exterior colors will continue to the interior in the C40 Recharge. This is great news for consumers looking for a distinct look in their vehicle’s cabin.
While the automaker has yet to announce official pricing on the all-new C40 Recharge, we expect it to be not far above the starting MSRP for the XC40 Recharge ($53,990 before taxes and incentives). The C40 Recharge is expected to be on sale in early 2022 and will only be available for purchase online.