Overview
The Volvo EX40 — formerly the XC40 Recharge — gets a new name to end confusion over whether it is all-electric or a member of Volvo’s plug-in hybrid family, which originated the “Recharge” name. With the new nomenclature comes a Performance pack software upgrade option that gives dual-motor versions an additional 34 horsepower. Otherwise, the EX40 keeps the features that made the Recharge version a formidable competitor in the two-row premium crossover category.
The 2025 EX40 EV’s sportier sibling, the separately reviewed EC40, formerly the Volvo C40 Recharge, gets the same additions for 2025.
The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive EX40 delivers 248 horsepower while the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive models deliver 402 hp. The Performance option — which may be available as an over-the-air upgrade for the 2024 XC40 Recharge in some markets — boosts that to 436 ponies. Among likely competitors, only the Tesla Model Y has more power in both single- and dual-motor variants. The single-motor Audi Q4 e-tron will get a power boost for 2025 and likely will be able to out-muscle the single-motor EX40.
Range for the Volvo’s dual-motor variants falls well behind the Model Y’s, but is similar to that of other competitors.
We found the XC40 Recharge to be a feature-laden, near-luxury small SUV with good looks and decent performance. Changing the name to EX40 doesn’t affect that. The 2025 EX40 ought to be considered by anyone seeking a premium small SUV.
