Thanks to its striking good looks and impressive performance, the Volvo C40 Recharge has captured the attention of the electric car industry. However, how easy is it for a typical South African driver to buy this high-end EV? Well, it's quite difficult, as EVs are still expensive and reserved for those who earn generous salaries, and don't (fully) rely on Eskom for power.
See all Volvo C40 News and Advice here
In South Africa, the C40 Recharge Ultimate is the only available model at the moment. This all-electric vehicle has a starting price of R1,324,000 (including VAT) before extras. (In this price range, you'll also find BMW's iX1 which is priced from R 1 205 000, and the BMW iX3M Sport from R 1 361 400.)
With such a high asking price, can you really afford a C40 Recharge?
Find out how much C40 car repayments are here.
If you crunched your numbers and can afford to spend megabucks, the C40 is a great EV to own.
3 Reasons why we love the C40
1. It exudes 'quiet luxury'
Those who are used to money don't need to show off, and the C40 is the epitome of understated elegance. Handsome from every angle, it's a car that doesn't go unnoticed but is never flashy or in your face. The C40 Recharge is all about effortless luxury and comfort.
2. It has decent range and delightful power
Thanks to its dual electric motors, which produce a combined 300 kW of power and 660 Nm of torque, the C40 Recharge sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 5 seconds. And with all-wheel drive and a lower centre of gravity, you can drive with confidence, even in wet weather. It was built for weather extremes, after all! (Testing of Volvo's vehicles takes place near the freezing cold Arctic Circle as well as the Arizona desert.)
And, the C40's range of up to 380 km (trust us, we tested it) is decent enough for daily excursions and longer journeys, if you plan carefully. With its fast charging capability of up to 200 kW DC, you can quickly top up your battery while you're on the road.
View all Volvo C40 Recharge specifications here
3. Volvos are some of the user-friendliest cars around
More than just aesthetics, the C40 Recharge prioritises functionality. The high seating position offers excellent visibility, while the orthopaedic seats provide excellent support. The intuitive infotainment system with built-in Google functionality integrates seamlessly with the driver's environment, ensuring a distraction-free experience that is completely voice-activated if you wish it to be. The cabin is more spacious than you'd imagine, and the minimalist environment has a soothing effect on all occupants.
So, if you're keen on a new C40 Recharge, you're going to pay dearly for one, but in the realm of EVs, there's really only one alternative that's significantly cheaper, and that's the GWM ORA 3. If you have your heart set on an electric Volvo, however, we can recommend the single-motor Volvo XC40 P6 Recharge, new for R1 108 000 and used from about R870 000 on AutoTrader. That's a lot less than the new C40 Recharge, and it's a wonderful car!
Read our Volvo XC40 P6 Recharge Review
Other used alternatives
- BMW i3: You can find used models starting around R350,000 here. Keep in mind that the battery's range is limited (130–150 km) and that winter weather will have an impact. For more information, check out our BMW i3 REX review here. (At least the REX model offers you an ICE-backup system of around 140 km extra to get you home to your charger or to the next charging station.)
- MINI Hatch Cooper SE: This hatchback offers a range of about 200km and can be found for around R480,000. It's a good choice for those without long commutes.
