Designed as the more fashion-forward companion to the Volvo XC40 Recharge, the 2023 C40 Recharge boasts a fastback top and tweaked design features to differentiate it from its boxier sibling. Design aside, the C40 Recharge contributes just about anything else with its XC40 Recharge sibling, including its 402-hp electric motor, basic cabin design, and internal tech features. The C40 Recharge boasts an EPA-estimated driving range of 226 miles, which isn’t nearly as generous as its closest competition, the Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback that’s EPA-rated to drive 242 miles on a full charge. The C40 Recharge is quick, though. Despite our lack of enthusiasm for its Google-backed entertainment system, Volvo’s small SUV is fully loaded with several of the Swedish manufacturer’s most coveted technological features.
Contents
What’s New?
For 2023, the entry-level Core and mid-range Plus trims will be added to the C40 Recharge lineup. The year before sole Greatest trims stay on as the C40’s big star. The two new models are available with an additional Climate package, which features heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a heat system to help keep the cabin toasty in cold weather. There is a new interior upholstery fabric called Charcoal Fusion as well as a Midnight Zinc wool-blend option. The compartment of the C40 Recharge largely mimics that of the XC40. This calls for elevated seating, clever storage arrangements throughout the cabin, and premium materials and finishes.
Motor, Range & Performance
All C40 Recharge models are equipped with two electric motors; one at the front and one at the rear which deliver up to 402 hp; all-wheel drive is standard. This powertrain is also available in the boxier XC40 Recharge, as well as the Polestar 2 electric car. The C40 Recharge drives similarly to its square-back sibling, as was to be expected. Although the C40 Recharge has a smooth ride and composed handling, it lacks the sharp steering and spirited attitude that make the more reasonably priced Ford Mustang Mach-E so appealing to us. Under the floor of the C40 Recharge is a battery pack with 75-kWh of usable energy storage, which the EPA claims should offer roughly 226 miles of driving range on each charge.
All C40 Recharge models have 150-kW DC fast charging capabilities, which are said to provide an 80 percent charge in just 40 minutes. For those who plan to charge at home, plugging the C40 Recharge up to a 110-volt or 220-volt outlet is also doable, but charging periods will be slower.
Mileage
| 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge Mileage | City | Highway |
| C40 Recharge | 94 MPGe | 80 MPGe |
According to the EPA, the C40 Recharge gets 94 MPGe cities and 80 MPGe highways, which is better overall than the XC40 Recharge’s 92 MPGe cities and 79 MPGe highways.
Dimensions, Space & Airbags
| 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge Dimensions | |
| Length | 174.8 in |
| Height | 62.8 in |
| Width | 73.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 106.4 in |
| Cargo Volume | 18 ft3 |
| Airbags | 8 Airbags |
A screen infotainment system using Volvo’s latest Google Android-based entertainment system is available and is capable of getting over-the-air software updates. The system provides navigation through Google Maps and voice commands via Google Assistant. So far, we’ve discovered the new display to be more reactive than Volvo’s former Sensus system, although its on-screen controls are smaller and more challenging to operate while driving. Extra apps are accessible for downloading through the Android Play Store. A digital gauge display is also standard, and the loaded Ultimate trim comes with a premium Harman Kardon stereo system.
Pricing
| 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge Trims | Price (USD) |
| Core | $56,395 |
| Plus | $57,945 |
| Ultimate | $61,195 |
We’d go for the mid-range Plus trim, as it adds plenty of equipment to warrant its rise in price over the entry-level Core. Noteworthy additions include a 360-degree exterior camera system, power-folding rear headrests, a power-adjustable passenger’s seat, a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area, and an adjustable cargo-area load floor.
Specifications & Top-Speed
| 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge Specifications | Specs |
| Engine | permanent-magnet synchronous AC |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Horsepower | 402 hp |
| Torque | 486 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.3 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 10.8 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 12.9 sec |
| Top-Speed | 115 mph |