2021 VOLVO XC40 EV DRIVING REVIEW - POLESTAR 2 GENES, SUV BODY TYPE

EV Channels Review

The 2021 Volvo XC40 EV (Recharge P8 AWD) is presented as a compelling electric SUV, leveraging the familiar XC40 design with significant EV enhancements. The reviewer highlights its strong performance, with around 400 horsepower and rapid acceleration, making it feel agile and fun to drive, even more so than its combustion engine counterparts. The Android-based infotainment system, powered by Google, receives high praise for its responsiveness, real-time traffic data, and seamless integration, particularly noting its superiority over many in-house developed systems. Positives also include good build quality, a comfortable interior with optional unique trims, and practical features like a usable frunk and a well-designed trunk. However, the reviewer expresses significant frustration with the lack of a visible remaining range indicator in the instrument cluster, deeming it an "irritating" omission. While the interior materials are good, the reviewer notes it's not yet fully animal-free, though Volvo is reportedly working on this. The price point, around €60,000-€70,000, is acknowledged as premium, but comparable to high-spec petrol models, especially when considering subsidies. The real-world range achieved in a mixed driving test was approximately 440 km (270 miles), a solid result comparable to the Polestar 2, though less than some competitors like the Tesla Model 3.