2018 Volvo XC40

Volvo EX40 is the US version of XC40 with bigger battery

A refreshed version of Volvo's popular electric crossover XC40 Recharge is getting a new name and a longer-range battery for the 2025 model year. Say hello to the Volvo EX40, a name that aligns with the brand's growing family of all-electric vehicles like the EX30 and EX90.

To avoid confusion, the XC40 name will now be reserved for mild-hybrid models, and the T8 badge will signify plug-in hybrids. This should make it easier for consumers to navigate Volvo's portfolio. The coupe-like C40 Recharge is also going through a transformation, and will return as the EC40 for the 2026 model year.

The changes go beyond just a new name. The 2025 Volvo EX40 comes with a larger 82 kWh battery pack in its dual-motor configuration, up from the previous 78 kWh unit. This means more range, with the EX40 Single Motor achieving an EPA-estimated 476 km on a single charge and the dual-motor variant reaching 418 km. Even the single-motor versions get a slight boost in charging speed, going from 200 to 205 kW.

While the EC40 (C40 Recharge) is taking a brief hiatus, the EPA website already lists two versions of the 2025 model with increased ranges: 480 km for the single-motor and 431 km for the dual-motor.

 
New entry-level Volvo XC40 in SA: price and specs

A new entry-level Volvo XC40 has been introduced to South Africa. Here’s how much you can expect to pay for the B3 Essential.

Volvo South Africa has expanded its XC40 model portfolio with the introduction of the B3 Essential. Serving as the opening gambit to the local XC40 lineup, here’s how much the newcomer costs.

The XC40 B3 Essential is equipped with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine incorporating 48 V mild-hybrid tech. The powertrain produces 110 kW and 265 N.m of torque – the latter available from a low 1 500 r/min. Power is exclusively delivered to the front axle via the Swedish marque’s Geartronic eight-speed automatic transmission. The Gothenburg brand claims the B3 Essential completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 10.1 seconds, before topping out at 180 km/h. The average fuel consumption is rated at 7.1 L/100 km.

As standard, the B3 Essential package includes such items as keyless entry, an electrically operated tailgate, fore and aft park assist, and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels, to name but a few items. Larger alloys are available as an option.

Volvo XC40 B3 Essential price in SA

Positioned as the new entry-level model in Volvo’s four-strong local XC40 lineup, thanks to the folks at duoporta we can confirm the B3 Essential is priced from R750 000. Included in the pricing are a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and a warranty spanning the same duration and distance.

Volvo XC40 B3 Essential – R750 000
Volvo XC40 B4 Plus Dark – R842 300
Volvo XC40 Recharge Single Motor Plus – R1 108 000
Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Motor Ultimate – R1 298 000

 
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