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.
This story is from the September 2023 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2023 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mi5 SILENT, POSH AND LETHAL!
With its reimagined design language, BMW has done what it does best-divided opinion with the kind of fervour usually reserved for debates about pineapple on pizza.
A VIRAL ESCAPE
The last time I visited Hampi in Karnataka was back in 2021, just as the world began to shake off the COVID-19 travel bans.
FROM UNDERDOG TO CHAMPION
Thierry Neuville's Journey to WRC Glory
Max Verstappen: FOUR-TIME CHAMP UNDER THE VEGAS LIGHTS
From dominance to resilience, Verstappen cements his legacy while Mercedes shines in Sin
VOLKSWAGEN VIRTUS GT PLUS SPORT: SEXY+SPORT
Volkswagen has a knack for keeping their loyal and enthusiastic customers grinning from ear to ear. The German manufacturer has almost become synonymous with build quality, safety and performance.
BE GE AND XEV 9E Sexy and Ballsy!
Starting a review can be quite a challenge, especially when it's hard to pinpoint the flaws!
CAPTURING THE ESSENCE
Chilly, cold mornings and Mumbai is a rare combination that we seldom see in this part of our beautiful country.
BATTLE OF TWO GOLIATHS
When Luxury Meets Performance, Who Takes the Crown?
THE E-MPV THAT DARES TO DREAM BIG
The MPV market, dominated for aeons by Toyota's Innova, has always felt like a rather predictable place. It's the type of vehicle you buy not out of passion but practicality-like a pair of orthopaedic shoes.
IMPRACTICAL YET IRRESISTIBLE
Exactly ten years ago, I took my first international trip. It was to Bahrain, a country of endless desert and skyscrapers, where my aunt and uncle lived. Among their friends and neighbours, one particular gentleman, upon learning I was a budding petrolhead, took an entire day off work to take me around the city’s showrooms to see some “normal” Middle East traffic.
