Volvo is a leader in many segments of the automotive industry. Many experts consider their vehicles as the safest. It is obvious that everything goes greener like it always happened. There are no too many dislikes on the design end. We would say wheels are some of the bests in the industry. Everything said is going to be included in the 2022 Volvo XC40. Modern styling, attractive parts, advanced safety features… Plus, the small crossover is introducing the EV system, which is definitely a highlight of the 2022 YM.
Fans and experts were not surprised when the carmaker announced all the changes for the compact crossover. The 2022 Volvo XC40 is expanding the drivetrain lineup, and it will be again based on a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine. Styling is another strong side, although this is the smallest crossover by Volvo. Now, with the EV configuration, called Recharge, the new dimension is there. Being a luxury vehicle, it will deliver plenty of advanced options as standard features. High-end packages are the state of art.
The First All-Electric Volvo Crossover
No doubt, this is only the first one in the lineup. Shortly after the 2022 Volvo XC40, we will also see XC60 and XC90. For the mid-size SUV, there is the Recharge version already, but it is the plug-in hybrid. The XC40 is based on the V40 car, which is also in the same way. The Swedish company was always known as the carmaker that takes care of the environment. So, a big electrification plan is not a surprise.
What is 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge?
The Recharge is a new nameplate in the lineup. We can call it a trim level, but many are going to consider it as an all-new vehicle. Well, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge shares styling language with the base model. But, the key difference is under the hood, or we can say seats. Instead of a conventional petrol engine, Volvo delivers an all-electric drivetrain. Zero-emission plans start to work out. the Recharge crossover is going to get power from a dual-motor system good for 400 horsepower. Converted to miles the electric crossover can cover, that is around 300. Such power also means crisp acceleration. XC40 now needs less than 5 seconds to reach 60 mph. Recharging time is something that will be shorter in the future. The car can restore 80 percent of the battery in 40 minutes.
Besides the powertrain, the XC40 Recharge all-electric crossover is also going to use a unique package of features. A nine-inch screen is the center of the infotainment system. Among other accessories, we would highlight 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated seats, wireless charger, and some high-end safety measures, such as emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, or automatic parking. Volvo is using its own infotainment, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay, although it is Android-based. Harman Kardon is going to deliver premium audio.
2022 Volvo XC40 Redesign
Besides the new electric model, the rest of the lineup will be unchanged. Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription are the trim levels. But, all of them are introducing a fresh look. The redesign is a part of the mid-cycle update since the crossover debuted in 2018. Volvo is not wasting time and tries to make the XC40 competitive in the compact SUV segment. Like the exterior, the interior will also bring some serious changes. A lot of optional features are now standard, such as rear-seat USB ports, cargo area power outlets, adaptive headlights, and rear cross-traffic alert. The AM tuner is not part of the infotainment system anymore.
Optionally, you can upgrade the offer with R-Design and Inscription packages. Of course, some of the technologies found there could be obtained through separate purchases. The R-Design is adding a panoramic roof, power-adjustable seats, and navigation. The 2022 Volvo XC40 Inscription brings unique interior details.
Specifications and Price
The all-electric model is the third option for the small crossover. Well, 400 ponies output seems to be too much for its size. But, some drivers are going to like it. A base version cracks 187 horsepower, which is more suitable for the luxury crossover. A 2.0-liter turbo-four also creates 220 lb-ft and returns 27 mpg combined. Even a start/stop system didn’t help it achieve better gas mileage. An eight-speed automatic gearbox sends power to front wheels only, on a such-called T4 configuration. A T5 increases power and torque outputs to 248 hp and 258 pound-feet. It will cost you extra fuel and the mileage drops to 22/30 mpg. But, you are also getting all-wheel drive.
After the redesign, the price will go up. The MSRP starts at $34,000 for the 2021 YM. Updated crossover is gaining at least $1,000. R-Design and Inscription already sit above $40,000. The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge all-electric model is going to be priced from $55,000 before optional upgrades. The company is yet to announce which packages are going to be available.
