Volvo EX40 – Recharge reload

VOLVO’S commitment to becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030 shows no sign of stalling and in the new EX40 mid-size SUV the Swedish brand has a model that sets a stunningly high standard.

We say new EX40 but in truth the only new element of the car is its name, that moniker being a consequence of Volvo’s move to standardise its model names for EVs – so what was once known as the Volvo XC40 Recharge is now called the EX40.

It is operating in a crazily competitive area of the new EV market, coming up against the likes of the Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW ix1, Genesis GV60 and Kia EV6, all of which are serious premium players in their own right.

But the beauty of the EX40 is that it is such an outstanding all-rounder, a real master of all trades.

There’s plenty of choice for buyers too, with a range that features no less than four electric powertrains with rear or four-wheel drive offering a potential driving range of between 296 and 343 miles.

Our tested variant was the Single Motor Extended Range two-wheel drive model in top spec Ultra trim which uses a powerful 78kWh battery providing enough wallop for the Volvo to reach 62mph from standstill in 7.3 seconds.

We also managed to get within 20 miles of the official figure of 332 miles before heading for a charge point – pretty good given the cool autumn conditions.

Nor do drivers who don’t have or can’t have a home wallbox need fret because they can replenish from 10 to 80 per cent in 33 minutes at a public rapid (155kW) charger.

Out on the road the EX40 purrs along effortlessly in both urban and rural conditions, though its steering does feel on the light side. That said, the car has plenty of punch for overtaking and excellent stability at speed.

Key to its comfort is a solid build quality and emphasis on well-made, robust and durable fixtures and fittings – from tough plastics to the Fusion Microtech/textile upholstery.

The XC40 range has been available for more than seven years and while it is officially labelled a compact SUV, there’s appreciably more space for passengers and luggage than you may imagine.

Space up front is more than adequate for tall adults with seats offering plenty of support and adjustment while those in the back are also treated to ample leg and headroom.

A centre rear passenger may get that piggy in the middle feeling though, having to make do with a narrow, if soft, perch – okay for short trips but less so if faced with a long journey.

Stowage space is not a problem, with useful areas like a lidded central box with two cupholders ahead of it, a storage area in front of the auto gearshift, door bins with large bottle holders in each, a glovebox and magazine nets on the front seat backs.

The boot is practical too, with a fold-up divider to section off shopping, and an overall carrying capacity of 452 litres, which rises to 1,319 litres with the rear seats flipped down.

A digital instrument panel is standard and there’s a nine-inch vertical touchscreen with sat nav, DAB radio, Apple CarPlay (though not Android Auto) and Volvo’s On Call emergency access at the centre of the dashboard.

Otherwise buyers can rely on an impressive degree of kit, starting with the £46,300 entry grade Core model which includes wireless phone charging, a rear parking camera, powered tailgate plus that central touchscreen with built-in Google functions.

Our tested range-topping Ultra model adds a 360-degree parking camera set-up, panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon sound system and advanced Pixel LED headlights.

Beautifully crafted and elegant, if still quite understated, the Volvo EX40 is practical, classy, comfortable and has an excellent driving range between charges.

*Customers placing an order via Volvo Loan or PCP via Volvo Car Financial Services UK Ltd can save up to £4,000 on EX40 models.