Volvo has expanded its C40 Recharge lineup with a more inexpensive single-motor variant. The new entry-level C40 does away with the rear motor seen on pricier versions in favor of a single-engine driving the front wheels.
The front wheels are powered by a single-motor C40, which is powered by a 69-kilowatt-hour battery. That's less than the 78-kWh battery in the dual-motor variant. Volvo claims the single-motor crossover will have a range of up to 434 kilometers, although that figure is based on the WLTP testing cycle, and real-world mileage may vary. The dual-motor C40 has a range of 338 km per EPA and 420 km per WLTP.
Volvo hasn't revealed any performance numbers, but we do know that the dual-motor arrangement produces 402 horsepower and 660 Nm of torque. The XC40 Recharge, which is also available in a single-motor variant, is powered by the same powertrain.
That arrangement produces 231 horsepower, and it's expected to power the C40 as well. A fast-charging mechanism, according to the manufacturer, can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in roughly 32 minutes.
The XC40 now has a new front bumper and a redesigned, frameless grille. The Thor's Hammer lighting signature was also modified using pixel LED light technology for adaptable headlights. Volvo also adds additional exterior color options, rim alternatives, and leather-free interior options to the vehicle.
Prices and availability for the new single-motor C40 in the United States have still to be determined, but initial UK deliveries are planned in autumn 2022, by which time the XC40 Recharge makeover and other model changes should be pushed out globally.
Volvo did not provide a release date for the single-motor C40 or the redesigned XC40. The company also did not provide pricing information.