The Volvo XC40 Recharge, the electric version of the gas powered XC40, is the first fully Volvo electric vehicle (EV). Originally introduced for the 2020 model year with two electric motors that deliver 486 lb-ft of torque, an impressive 402 horsepower, and 233 miles of electric range, the XC40 Recharge is a serious contender in the electric SUV space. With a similar design to its gas powered counterpart, the XC40 Recharge has a luxurious look and feel with many desirable safety and convenience features.

While originally being introduced with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, its 2024 refresh introduces an additional base model with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a larger 82 kWh battery and a more efficient dual-motor AWD model named XC40 Recharge twin. The XC40 isn’t short of high-end features with higher trims including 20-inch wheels, automatic high-beam headlights, a Harman/Kardon stereo system, adaptive cruise control, and a semi-autonomous driving mode.

Like many other EVs, the XC40 Recharge has a small front trunk or “frunk” area which can hold several small bags. In terms of tech, the XC40 Recharge provides a new generation of software developed in conjunction with Google's Android Automotive. The XC40 Recharge’s cousin, the Polestar 2, also has this infotainment system.

According to the EPA, the 2020-2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge has about 223 miles of electric range when fully charged . The 2024 XC40 Recharge provides up to 293 miles in RWD and XC40 Recharge Twin with AWD at 254 miles. This range allows the XC40 Recharge to compete with the Audi Q4 e-tron and the Jaguar I-Pace, but it loses out to the Tesla Model Y, which allows for more than 300 miles per charge. To combat range anxiety and preserve battery life, Volvo recommends Level 2 charging the battery up to 90% capacity for typical daily driving and avoiding letting the battery fall below 20%.

To take full advantage of fast home charging, XC40 Recharge owners will want to install a 48 amp home EV charger, such as the JuiceBox 48, which has a standard SAE J1772 plug that works with any electric vehicle on the market. For longer road trips, drivers can use DC fast chargers to charge the XC40 Recharge Twin from 10% to 80% in around 37 minutes.