Wolf In Sheep's Clothing

VOLVO C40 RECHARGE

- Gavin Rodrigues

As a brand, Volvo is known for its minimal approach and sophisticated interiors. It's a brand we usually associate with buses, but lately, their products have turned heads and lured folks away from the Germans. The XC40 was one such vehicle which didn't only dominate as diesel and petrol but even as an EV. Built on Volvo's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), the C40 also shares its platform with the XC40 Recharge, with specific improvements essentially down to aesthetics. The XC40 Recharge was always understated, which was part of its charm. But it existed in a segment where flamboyance seems to be in demand; with the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the KIA EV6 bringing in their stylish versions, it was about time Volvo did something to spice things up. Thus lo and behold the all-new C40 Recharge.

WHAT'S NEW ON THE C40 RECHARGE?

Though it may appear the same from the front, one would miss the new headlamp equipped with Volvo's Pixel Technology which allows the headlamp to only illuminate parts of the road without dazzling oncoming traffic. It essentially works like a set of MATRIX LED lights, and the C40 Recharge is Volvo's first car to feature this setup. Move along the side, and you'll notice a brand new design for the 19-inch wheel, which Volvo claims is more aerodynamic and paired with a pair of specially designed low-resistance tires to help increase efficiency.

The overall roofline is now lowered thanks to the coupe-like roofline, making the Volvo appear much sportier and muscular. This also calls for a change in taillamps. Volvo's now equipped the C40 Recharge with beautiful LED taillights that house sequential turn indicators and showcase a welcome and goodbye feature when you lock or unlock the vehicle. Combined, Volvo claims that this makes the C40 Recharge about 4% more aerodynamically efficient, extending range ever so slightly.