Volvo XC40 Recharge (EX40) Pure Electric

Overview

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Pure Electric was a cracking entry into the premium compact electric SUV scene, offering signature Scandinavian style and safety in a more accessible front-wheel-drive package. This single-motor variant, badged as the XC40 (EX40) Pure Electric and produced in Belgium for the EU market, provided a nifty balance of everyday usability. Though its production was brief, spanning only 2022, it remains a sought-after option on the used market, with prices around €30,890. It’s a smart, stylish choice for eco-conscious urbanites looking for Volvo's EV prowess.

What's New for 2022?

For the 2022 model year, the big news for the XC40 electric lineup was the introduction of this "Pure Electric" single-motor, front-wheel-drive configuration. This model broadened the XC40 EV's appeal, slotting in as a more accessible alternative to the original potent dual-motor AWD versions. It packed a slightly smaller battery but still offered very usable real-world range. Alongside this powertrain diversification, the XC40 range continued to benefit from Volvo's excellent Android Automotive OS infotainment system, which received ongoing updates for enhanced functionality, keeping the in-car tech feeling fresh and intuitive.

Design & Exterior

The 2022 XC40 Pure Electric rocks Volvo's cool, chunky SUV aesthetic with that unmistakable Scandinavian minimalism. Up front, you get the signature body-coloured covered grille plate, a hallmark of its electric nature, flanked by those striking 'Thor's Hammer' LED daytime running lights. Dimensionally, it measures a city-friendly 4425 mm in length, 1873 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and stands 1652 mm tall. The Pure Electric trim maintained the clean lines and premium feel of its siblings, offering a sophisticated presence with typically stylish alloy wheels rounding off its urban-chic vibe.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the XC40 Pure Electric and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s pure Volvo: minimalist design, impressive material quality (often featuring sustainable options), and a properly premium ambiance. It comfortably accommodates five passengers. For your luggage, there's a practical 410-litre boot, which expands to a capacious 1295 litres when the rear seats are folded flat. Plus, there's a handy 31-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet, perfect for stowing charging cables. Tech-wise, the brilliant Android Automotive infotainment system, with Google built-in, is displayed on a slick 9-inch portrait touchscreen, usually complemented by a crisp digital driver display.

Performance & Driving Experience

This single-motor XC40 Pure Electric serves up a zesty 170 kW and a healthy 330 Nm of torque from its Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, all channelled through the front wheels. It’ll scoot from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 7.4 seconds, with a top speed of 160 km/h. The driving experience is classic EV: smooth, refined, and instantly responsive. It’s particularly adept in town, with a comfortable ride and easy manoeuvrability. Volvo’s effective one-pedal driving mode is usually available, making urban crawls a doddle and maximising energy regeneration.

Range, Battery & Charging

The XC40 Pure Electric is equipped with a 67 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a real-world range estimated by Green Cars Compare at around 366 km – plenty for most daily duties and some longer jaunts. Its energy consumption is rated at an efficient 5.46 km/kWh. For home charging, its 400V architecture supports a standard 11 kW AC on-board charger via its CCS Type 2 port, meaning a full top-up takes roughly 7 hours. When rapid charging on the go, it can accept up to 150 kW from a DC fast charger, zapping the battery from 10-80% in approximately 32 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Volvo and safety are virtually synonymous, and the XC40 Pure Electric proudly carries a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. As standard, you get a comprehensive suite of safety kit, including Volvo’s renowned City Safety system (AEB with pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection), Lane Keeping Aid, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, and Road Sign Information. More advanced features like Pilot Assist (adaptive cruise control with steering assistance) and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert were often available, sometimes as part of optional packs, further bolstering its impressive safety credentials.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, new Volvos typically come with a 3-year/100,000 km basic vehicle warranty. The crucial high-voltage battery in the XC40 Pure Electric is usually covered for a more extensive 8 years or 160,000 km, warranting against excessive degradation (often to maintain at least 70% of its original capacity). Maintenance needs are generally lower than internal combustion engine cars due to fewer moving parts. Volvo's reputation for build quality is strong, and these electric models are designed for durability, offering good peace of mind, even on the pre-owned market.