Since the introduction of the Volvo XC40 as a compact SUV in 2017, sales figures in Europe have increased steadily from year to year. The purely electric SUV version combines the zero-emission drive with a sophisticated armada of assistance systems. Volvo wants to continue to set the safety standards in automotive engineering and is therefore upgrading the current cars with driver assistance systems and noticeably increasing occupant protection. In the relatively mild winter, we were able to extensively experience the purely electric and probably future-oriented technology of the Volvo XC40.
The speed of converting to purely electric cars has been continuously updated by the Swedish manufacturer in recent years. The presentation of a new electric model is firmly planned for each year in the model offensive. As early as 2030, the curtain falls on the last combustion engines in order to strive for the next goal of climate-neutral production by 2040. The XC40 can already be described as a successful clock. In the version we tested with front-wheel drive and a 170 kW/231 hp electric motor, the motor is sufficient for European requirements. In the top speed range, it is capped at 160 km/h. The attractively designed XC40 can confidently shed the old cliché of the car for teachers and study councillors. It has long been in direct competition with the BMW X3 or Audi Q3.
The security philosophy
Thereby can Volvo score well in terms of security. The carmaker has long announced that no more passengers should be injured or killed in the new models. And so this philosophy was carefully realized in technical solutions. The result was already impressive in 2018 during the first NCAP test. In the area of occupant protection, 97% of all requirements have already been fully met. Among other things, the blind spot assistant, the collision avoidance and the lane departure warning system are helpful. The emergency brake assistants for obstacles and crossing traffic work just as effectively when parking and exiting.
Comfort and ergonomics
The traditional values of high-quality seats with very good lateral support and configurations that can be saved individually offer high-quality long-distance comfort. Extended with the heated and ventilated seat elements, the driving comfort can be fully utilized. The multifunction steering wheel includes all the essential controls for speed, media and telephone functions and adaptive cruise control. A head-up display, which is actually common for the premium segment, is also desirable for the future.
On the test track
For the test drives, we mainly chose trips in the third mix over the state of Schleswig-Holstein in the mild winter temperatures. The dynamics and the smooth running in all speed ranges were interesting. A very comfortable suspension is achieved thanks to the independent wheel suspension with good damping characteristics. The adaptive cruise control also impressed with its simple activation and quick speed setting using the left thumb. After stopping at traffic lights, the system is reactivated by gently pressing the power pedal.
Volvo registration numbers in Europe
Volvo XC40 (all models)
2021 123.847
2020 110.254
2019 82.457
2018 47.298
2017 117
Source: carsalesbase.com
Prices and special equipment
The 360-degree all-round view on the trapezoidal display makes maneuvering very easy for the compact SUV. The total supervision and the obstacles are reported visually and acoustically. During our trips, an average consumption of 28 kWh was displayed with all consumers switched on. That's not really surprising, because with a total weight of well over 2 tons and the high air resistance, these are realistic values at low outside temperatures of around 5 degrees. In the summer there are still a few savings potentials due to the savings in the air conditioning sector. The combined WLTP-Range is specified by Volvo as 416 kilometers. After all, this allows you to plan a relaxed summer trip and also a relaxed holiday trip.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric Single Ultimate with the highest equipment package still has a base price of 56.690 euros in the current model year. Volvo's online configurator currently only offers leasing models for the current versions. Here the monthly leasing rate starts at 939 euros per month for the basic model "Essential". (January 2023)
Summary
The XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is a very popular model in Europe. With an attractive price-performance ratio, it is in tough competition with Audi, BMW and Mercedes in the compact SUV premium segment. The increasing sales figures in Europe clearly speak for the Volvo XC40. The chances in competition are good with the very attractive design and the extensive safety equipment.
Addendum
Practical test in winter 2022/2023
How do you like the Volvo XC40 Pure Recharge?
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