Volvo C40 gets entry-level single-motor version

• Single motor makes it front-wheel drive
• Up-to 269 miles of range
• On sale now from £44,800

As demand for electric SUVs surges, the Volvo C40 Recharge lineup has been broadened for 2022. This update includes a new entry-level single-motor powertrain as well as a trio of new trim levels which reflect changes seen elsewhere in the Volvo range.

The single-motor C40 Recharge is available to order now from £44,800, with the dual-motor option still available from £55,550. This lower entry-point into the range brings the C40 more in-line with rivals such as the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron; though the Volvo is limited to being financed via the brand’s expensive Care by Volvo subscription service.

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Single-motor variants of the C40 Recharge will use a front-mounted electric motor paired with a 69kWh battery. This means that they are front-wheel-drive only and can manage around 269 miles on a single charge; only slightly less than the dual-motor model’s 273 miles.

Just like with the more expensive dual-motor setup, fast charging is standard across the entirety of the C40 Recharge single-motor range. This allows drivers to plug their car into a 150kW rapid public charger and top up from 10-80% capacity in just 32 minutes.

Buyers can now configure their C40 Recharge in one of three trim levels: Core, Plus and Ultimate. Only available with the single-motor powertrain, entry-level Core models come with plenty of standard equipment including 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, artificial leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, lane keep assist, an automated tailgate, a digital instrument cluster and Volvo’s nine-inch portrait central touchscreen.

Stepping up the range, single-motor C40 Recharge Plus models start from £50,550, with dual-motor cars demanding a £5,000 premium on top of that. This trim level benefits from an electric driver’s seat with memory function, blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and a rear-view camera.

Finally, C40 Recharge Ultimate trim sits at the pinnacle of the range and boasts a set of model-specific 20-inch alloy wheels, suede and artificial leather upholstery, a premium Harman Kardon sound system and a 360-degree camera. The C40 Recharge single-motor in Ultimate guise starts from £53,900, with dual-motor variants costing £58,900.

Want your next family car to be electric? Check out our list of the top 10 best electric SUVs