2023 Volvo XC40 and XC40 Recharge Review: Gas or electric?

2023 Volvo XC40

2023  Volvo XC40 and XC40 Recharge Review: Gas or electric? You can’t go wrong

• Pros:

  • Cute and functional design
  • efficient powertrains
  • a good overall value

• Cons:

  • Recycled materials can feel cheap
  • Recharge has average EV range
  • doesn’t qualify for federal EV tax credit

The subcompact luxury SUV market has a lot of contenders, but the 2023 Volvo XC40 stands out as one of the most visually impressive options. With its boxy design and well-proportioned body, this SUV features the iconic Swedish style that we know and love.

This year, Volvo made some updates to the XC40, including improving the powertrains for a more enjoyable overall driving experience. If you’re looking for even more excitement, the all-electric XC40 Recharge offers sprightly acceleration and better handling without emitting CO2 or requiring gas station stops.

Overall, we highly recommend the XC40 as a top choice for subcompact luxury SUVs thanks to its size, style, and quality, which justifies its higher price over non-luxury options. Even the gas-powered models, especially the upgraded B5, provide a great value compared to their rivals, and the Recharge offers impressive performance for the extra cost.

What’s new for 2023?

For 2023, the xc40 range, which includes the xc40 recharge, receives several minor updates. These modifications comprise a new front bumper, a frameless grille, and “pixel” LED headlights. Additionally, new hues and wheels are now accessible.

To improve efficiency, the gasoline-powered xc40s have been equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems. Furthermore, non-leather upholstery has been included in the recharge, while all versions now use the Google-based infotainment system, which was previously only available in the recharge model.

What are the XC40’s interior and in-car technology like?

2023 Volvo XC40

The XC40 by Volvo boasts a neat and contemporary interior design that sets it apart from previous models. The materials used are of high quality, with comfortable textile upholstery being standard and the option for leather or even more eco-friendly alternatives such as Microtech textile or a wool blend.

What makes the XC40 unique is its well-designed center console, featuring numerous compartments to store and secure devices, practical cup holders, and even a designated place for garbage.

The XC40 also incorporates advanced technology, including a 9-inch infotainment screen with Google-based software and a 12-inch digital instrument panel.

The integration of Google Maps and Google Assistant makes this system feel like an extension of your smartphone, while alternative options such as Apple CarPlay also work seamlessly.

Overall, the XC40 exhibits thoughtful design and innovative technology.

How big is the XC40?

While the XC40 falls under the subcompact luxury crossover category, its back seat may be a bit cramped for larger adults, as is typical for this segment. However, the vehicle’s boxy shape and well-designed ergonomics make it quite practical, with ample rear headroom and easy installation for child car seats.

While the cargo space behind the second row may be on the smaller side, with a maximum capacity of 57.5 cubic feet, it still outperforms many competitors. The floor offers a clever feature that allows for separate sections to keep items from falling together. Although the Mercedes GLB is notable for its ability to carry more cargo, the XC40 offers a taller area for easy loading and even a small frunk for additional storage if you opt for the recharge model.

The XC40 faces smaller and larger rivals, including the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLB, but it offers practicality and functionality that many others lack.

What are the XC40’s fuel economy and performance specs?

The 2023 XC40 offers three different powertrains: the B4, B5, and Recharge. The B4 has a 2.0-liter mild-hybrid turbocharged four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive only. It generates 194 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque and is very fuel-efficient at 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

Its zero to 60 mph acceleration time is 8.1 seconds. For all-wheel drive, the XC40 B5 is required, which has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain earns 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined, and can go from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

Finally, the XC40 Recharge, which has a 78 kWh battery pack and an electric motor on each axle, produces an impressive 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It can go from zero to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and has an EPA-estimated range of 223 miles. When charged using an applicable DC fast charger, the maximum charging speed is 150 kW, and it can go from a 10-80% charge in 37 minutes according to Volvo.

What’s the XC40 like to drive?

The Volvo XC40 is a departure from the norm of the 60 and 90 series, as it exudes a level of playfulness and lightweight that sets it apart. Despite feeling nimble and precise, its somewhat tall and narrow body results in more body roll than usual and a notably high seating position, making it feel more like a classic SUV rather than a car-like entry.

The driving experience is unusual and subjective, with some editors finding it charming while others disliked it. Ride comfort depends on the options chosen, particularly wheel sizes, and the engine type – with the B5 variant offering more power and speed than the B4. However, driving the electric XC40 Recharge offers an entirely different experience.

With instant torque from its electric motors, it offers vastly superior acceleration to the gas-powered variants and even outperforms non-luxury EVs like the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The Recharge’s handling is also much improved, thanks to the battery pack pushing the center of gravity downward. Despite not being a performance vehicle, the XC40 Recharge is surprisingly fun to drive.

What is the 2023 XC40’s price?

The 2023 XC40 B4 FWD Core model has a starting price of $37,645, which includes the destination charge.

For just $2,000 more, you can get the B5 model which offers all-wheel drive and significantly better performance. There are three trims available: Core, Plus, and Ultimate.

The Core model comes with generous standard equipment for a subcompact SUV, such as 18-inch wheels, automatic climate control, and an eight-speaker sound system.

The Plus trim adds fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, and more advanced features, while the Ultimate includes 19-inch wheels, a Harman Kardon audio system, and numerous driver-assistance features.

2023 Volvo XC40

The Recharge model is similar in features to the gas-powered XC40 and also comes in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims.

The Recharge model offers a “climate” package option that includes a heat pump to extend the range in cold weather conditions. The starting price for the XC40 Recharge is $54,645.

• XC40 B4

  • XC40 B4 Core: $37,645
  • XC40 B4 Plus: $42,045
  • XC40 B4 Ultimate: $45,795

• XC40 B5

  • XC40 B5 Core: $39,645
  • XC40 B5 Plus: $44,045
  • XC40 B5 Ultimate: $47,795

• XC40 Recharge

  • XC40 Recharge Core: $54,645
  • XC40 Recharge Plus: $57,345
  • XC40 Recharge Ultimate: $60,595

What are the XC40’s safety ratings and driver assistance features?

The 2023 Volvo XC40 comes equipped with several standard safety features such as front and rear collision warning, blind-spot warning, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, oncoming lane mitigation, lane-keeping assist, road sign information, and a driver inattention and drowsiness warning system.

Additionally, the ultimate trim level includes adaptive cruise control with lane-centering steering assist and stop-and-go functionality, as well as a 360-degree camera. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded the XC40 a five-star safety rating for overall, frontal, and side crash protection.