Volvo XC40 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid T5 review
Should I buy one?
With our running limited to Volvo’s test track, we’ve yet to do enough mileage in the XC40 Recharge PHEV to offer a definitive verdict and so are withholding a star rating for now – but our first impression is that the new powertrain makes a strong package even more compelling. It keeps everything that ensures the XC40 remains one of our favourite small SUVs, and adds a compelling new powertrain option.
As ever with a plug-in, much will depend on what you’re buying it for, and how you intend to use it. Keep the battery topped up and make the most of EV mode and you’ve got an ideal city cruiser that can also cope effortlessly with long cruising journeys. Economics comes into it, too: the £40,905 price of the R Design model we drove compares with £36,585 for the most powerful 244bhp petrol variant in similar R Design spec (but offering all-wheel drive).
Another benefit is the reduction in CO2 output – 41g/km, compared to 127g/km for the XC40 T3, powered purely by the three-cylinder 1.5 petrol engine, and a fuel economy of 141.2mpg (an NEDC correlated figure based on the WLTP test cycle).
Of course, those looking for a compact Volvo SUV capable of pure-electric running might want to think about the forthcoming XC40 Recharge Full Electric. Such are the dilemmas that come from Volvo’s decision to offer one model with multiple powertrains…
Volvo XC40 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid specification
Where Gothenberg, Sweden Price £40,905 On sale March Engine 3 cyls, 1477cc, turbocharged, petrol, plus 80bhp electric motor Power 258bhp at 5800rpm Torque 313lb ft Gearbox 7-spd auto Kerb weight 1741kg (est) 0-62mph 7.3sec Top speed 127mph Fuel economy WLTP figures TBC CO2 41g/km WLTP Rivals BMW X1 xDrive 25e, Lexus UX
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-revie...ves/volvo-xc40-recharge-plug-hybrid-t5-review






