2024 Volvo XC40 and C40 recharge models get upgrades and pricing for Australia

A larger battery capacity and faster DC charging capability comes with a price hike

Volvo's newly revamped electric SUVs, the C40 and XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, are anticipated to reach Australian shores in the third quarter of 2023, even earlier than previously announced. Interested buyers can now place their orders for these promising EVs.

The single-motor versions of both the XC40 and C40 Recharge Pure Electric models are now priced at $76,990 and $78,990 plus on-road costs, reflecting an increase of $3000. Meanwhile, the Twin dual-motor versions of the XC40 and C40 Recharge are now priced at $85,990 and $87,990 before on-roads, marking a rise of $4500.

In a shift from tradition, these single-motor models transition from front to rear-wheel drive, marking Volvo's first foray into rear-wheel drive vehicles since the retirement of the flagship S90 and V90 in 1998. Powering these models is a rear-mounted electric motor, which generates 175kW of power, 5kW more than the outgoing front-wheel drive variant. Volvo claims the XC40 and C40 Recharge Single Motor RWD will sprint from 0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 180km/h.

The energy source remains a 69kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering a respectable WLTP-tested range of 460km for the XC40 and 476km for the C40 in their single motor configurations. These ranges mark improvements of 35km and 38km, respectively, over their predecessors. Volvo states these entry-level single-motor variants will achieve a 10-80% fast charge in approximately 34 minutes at a maximum rate of 130kW.

The more potent Twin models are now equipped with an in-house developed permanent magnet electric motor on the rear axle that produces 183kW and a new asynchronous electric motor on the front axle that delivers 117kW. Despite the upgrades, total system outputs remain steady at 300kW and 660Nm.

The Twin variants boast a larger 82kWh battery pack, extending their range to an impressive 500km for the XC40 Recharge and 507km for the C40 Recharge Twin Motor AWD, according to WLTP testing. This represents a boost of 62km and 56km, respectively. Volvo has also improved the fast charging capability of these models, enabling them to charge at up to 200kW on a DC charger, promising a 10-80% charge in just 28 minutes.

Aesthetically, both the XC40 and C40 Recharge models have received minor exterior changes to optimize efficiency. Notably, a new aerodynamically-advanced 19-inch alloy wheel design aims to reduce drag. While Volvo Car Australia hasn’t mentioned the Single Motor Extended Range variants of the XC40 and C40 Recharge Pure Electric, these models could potentially offer a range of 515km and 533km respectively.

As Australia prepares for the arrival of the 2024 Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharge Pure Electric SUVs, it’s clear that Volvo is committed to advancing the capabilities and design of its electric offerings. While prices have risen, the benefits of improved efficiency, power, and range promise to deliver a more refined and capable electric driving experience.