2024 Volvo XC40 Pure Electric vs Volvo C40

With the array of new all-electric SUVs on the market, finding the ideal model can be challenging. Volvo has two attractive options you may be considering: the XC40 Recharge and the C40 Recharge. These vehicles have many similarities, so you could have trouble deciding which model best suits your needs and lifestyle. To help you compare these two electric vehicles (EVs), we created this guide that explains what you can expect when you choose either the 2024 XC40 Recharge or the C40 Recharge for your next set of wheels.

Trims

The Volvo XC40 Recharge and the C40 Recharge come in three trim levels: the Core, Plus, and Ultimate. The trim levels may have the same names, but they offer different features for each vehicle. With the base XC40 Recharge, you get glossy black roof rails and a Black Stone contrast roof. With the C40 Recharge, the base trim comes with a panoramic roof that provides more natural light in the cabin. A panoramic roof is also available with the higher XC40 trims.

You'll find that these EVs have similar dimensions for interior and exterior space. The body height for the XC40 Recharge is slightly taller at 65.2 inches compared to the C40 Recharge's 62.8 inches, and the trunk space also beats the C40 Recharge, with up to 16 cubic feet available in XC40 Recharge models. The C40 Recharge still has 15 cubic feet in the trunk, though. Tall drivers will appreciate the extra headroom in the XC40 Recharge, while rear-seat passengers get a little more headroom in the C40 Recharge.

Performance

You can get the 2024 XC40 Recharge or the C40 Recharge with either a single motor and rear-wheel drive or dual motors for all-wheel-drive capability. Opting for the single motor means your Volvo EV can pump out up to 248 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, regardless of the model. With the dual motor setup, your XC40 Recharge or C40 Recharge can deliver a whopping 402 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque. This efficient power system takes these sporty electric SUVs from zero to 60 mph in a zippy 4.6 seconds.

When you need to use a DC fast charger, you can charge both EVs from 10% to 80% in as little as 28 minutes. However, you can also get a charging unit installed in your home to make restoring your battery to full power a breeze. If you need to use one of these models for towing, they can pull up to 2,000 pounds.

Range

The XC40 Recharge and the C40 Recharge get their power from the same electric motor, so they offer similar driving ranges. If you opt for a single motor, the XC40 Recharge can reach up to 293 miles of driving range, while the C40 Recharge can take you up to 297 miles on a full charge. With the dual motor setup, your XC40 Recharge can reach up to 254 miles, and the C40 Recharge can drive 257 miles — a significant improvement over previous years' models.

Interior

On the inside, the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge boast elegant and luxurious touches that make you feel at home. You can comfortably fit up to five passengers in either model with bucket seats up front and a bench seat in the rear. Everything is within easy reach, and the high-tech appearance and feel of these cars make them ideal for savvy auto enthusiasts.

With the base XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, you'll enjoy the feel of the tailored sport steering wheel and Microtech synthetic upholstery with textile inserts made of recycled material on the seats. There's also a sculpted gear shifter that melds into your hand when you shift gears and front and rear center armrests for high-end comfort. The Plus trim includes an air purifier in the cabin, keeping the air in your EV fresh and clean. 

For a heated steering wheel and rear seats, upgrade to the Ultimate trim, which also includes power-folding rear head restraints and a power passenger seat in the C40 Recharge model.

Technology

Choosing the XC40 Recharge or the C40 Recharge ensures you stay connected and entertained. Google is built in across the lineup, so you can use many Google features when you're on the road through the in-dash screen or by using your voice. Over-the-air updates are also standard for both Volvo EVs, so you won't have to make an appointment to take care of them. Opting for the top-tier trim level in either vehicle gets you the Harman Kardon premium sound system, which features 13 crisp speakers and an air-ventilated subwoofer for clear sound.

Both SUVs offer similar tech features to keep you in touch while you're out and about in Mission Viejo, but the XC40 Recharge's Plus trim includes a convenient power outlet in the cargo compartment.

Safety

Volvo is committed to your safety, and the company includes many standard and available safety features and driver-assist technologies in its EV lineup. When you drive an XC40 Recharge or a C40 Recharge, you'll discover how simple driving can be because you have a suite of features at your disposal designed to keep you alert and aware. A 360-degree parking view lets you see the entire area around the car when you're pulling in or out of a tight parking space. Before you change lanes, the blind-spot information system alerts you if there's oncoming traffic you can't see.

The collision avoidance warning lets you know if pedestrians or other objects are in front of you so you can avoid an accident, and you can back up with confidence using the rear cross-traffic alert that gives you an audible warning if something gets in your way.

Get Your 2024 Volvo EV at Volvo Cars in Mission Viejo

When you're ready to find out what it feels like to get behind the wheel of one of these incredible EVs in the Volvo lineup, come by and see us at Volvo Cars in Mission Viejo. We also have an extensive inventory of certified pre-owned vehicles in stock if you want an older model. Our service department is here to help you keep your EV maintained so it continues to provide you with an efficient drive for years to come.