Video: Volvo C40 Recharge review – The best small EV in Malaysia?



The past year has been exciting for EV enthusiasts in Malaysia as more than 10 electric cars were launched, ranging from the ‘affordable’ ones to those in the premium segment. Last of them all was the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric which is essentially a coupe version of the Volvo XC40.

Sold in one variant only in Malaysia which is the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric Ultimate, the C40 fetches a price of RM288,888. Interestingly, the C40 can be bought through Volvo Car Malaysia’s new e-commerce platform which was launched together with the car in December last year.

The C40’s coupe styling serves more than just an aesthetic function as it makes the car more aerodynamic and thus increasing the total electric driving range from the XC40’s 438 km to 451 km. Coupe roof aside, the C40 is almost identical to the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, even bearing the same set of 19-inch five-double spoke wheels.

Powering the car is a dual-motor setup that makes 408 hp and 660 Nm. It is the most powerful EV in its price range and is also the quickest, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.7 seconds. As for energy storage, the C40 gets the same 78-kWh battery pack as the XC40, albeit offering more range at 451 km (WLTP), as mentioned earlier.

Charging can be done at a maximum rate of 11 kW with AC charging and this charges the car from 10% to 100% in eight hours. With DC fast charging, the C40 can handle a maximum charging rate of 150 kW, and this charges the car from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes.

RELATED: Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric launched in Malaysia, from RM289k

More pictures of the Volvo C40 Recharge here

Inside, the C40 boasts a 100% leather-free interior and almost everything is nature-inspired. One element that takes inspiration from nature is the topography trim that can be found on the dashboard and front door panels. These are inspired by the Swedish mountains, and they are backlit to enhance the look at night.

The EV market in Malaysia offers several other options within the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric’s price range and this includes several German and Korean options. Is the C40’s powerful drivetrain enough for it to compete with the other EVs? Watch our review to find out.

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