C40 Recharge

Make
Volvo
Segment
SUV

Things at Volvo are changing quickly both with the exciting move to EVs and the less exciting cancellation of its V90 and V60 station wagons (the Cross Country models stay). Its first big step is the new Volvo C40 Recharge, which was designed from the beginning to be purely electric. Preorders began online in March and customer deliveries will happen later this year, but we didn't know a price until today.

The 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge will start at $58,750 before federal tax credits (destination is $1,095). That's a little more than the estimated price of the Audi Q4 e-tron ($48,000) and the Tesla Model Y ($53,000, if you can find a base model). But it does have a lot to offer.

The C40 Recharge rides on the same platform as boxier XC40 Recharge, but only offers a two-motor, all-wheel drive electric powertrain. The two motors, one for each axle, make 402 hp and 486 lb-ft combined, good for a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.7 seconds. Its battery is just slightly larger than the XC40's at 78 kWh. Volvo says it can charge 80% in 40 minutes on a fast charger.

Volvo notes that with the XC40 Recharge it reduced its trims to just Plus and Ultimate. The new C40 will only be offered in the Ultimate level, with almost everything the company makes. That includes the Android operating system with Google, a fixed panoramic moonroof, 84-pixel LED lights, Pilot Assist (assisted driving), Harman Kardon premium sound, surround view camera and unique 20-inch wheels.

The C40 Recharge is the first model in the company's history to feature a leather-free interior. Saving the cows sort of goes along with saving the planet. It'll be offered in seven exterior paint colors, four of which can be spec'd with special Fjord Blue carpet for no extra charge.

Also announced today, Electrify America will be providing 2022 Volvo owners with 250-kWh of complimentary charging on the EA network, to be used within the first three years. Unless our math is off that's about three full charges and some change. However, you'd rarely be catching a 100% charge on one of these, so buyers could probably stretch it out. After that customers can sign up to charge at discounted rates.

Look for the C40 on dealership lots this fall.