Volvo South Africa has announced that the fully electric XC40 P6 Recharge will soon go on sale locally at a more affordable price than the R1.2-million P8.
Unfortunately, the company has not yet revealed what this price will be or exactly when the car will launch.
“The single-motor electric version of the Swedish firm’s popular compact SUV delivers a pleasing mix of performance and efficiency, and provides a compelling option for customers looking to switch to a pure electric Volvo,” said Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa Greg Maruszewski.
P6 Recharge specifications
The new Volvo XC40 P6 Recharge features one electric motor mounted at the front, powered by a high-voltage 69kWh lithium-ion battery.
The package generates 170kW and 330Nm that is directed to the front wheels, with 0-100km/h finished in 7.4 seconds.
Additionally, this electric Volvo utilises a “single-speed transmission” with a short gear ratio that allows consistent off-the-line acceleration and a maximum towing capacity of up to 1,500kg.
Maximum driving range for the P6 Recharge then comes in at 423km according to the WLTP cycle – which includes stop-start and mixed-condition driving.
“Fitted with a powerful 11kW onboard charger as standard, the vehicle provides competitive charging capabilities whether plugging in at home or at public points,” said Volvo.
Test drive
At the launch of Volvo’s electrified SUV range in South Africa, we got the chance to sample not only the P8 Recharge, but also the P6.
The siblings are nearly identical when it comes to design and features, with the only noticeable difference on the outside being the “Recharge” badges of the P6 not incorporating the word “Twin”, due to this vehicle not having a twin-motor setup like the P8.
Both XC40 models were fitted with the same wheels on the day to avoid anyone detecting the P6, so it remains to be seen whether the South African-bound P6 will get its own set of alloys.
The feel behind the wheel of both SUVs was excellent, though, and both were compliant, comfortable, and quicker than most other cars on the road.
The front-wheel-drive nature of the P6 was barely noticeable, and I found that the power it puts out is more than what you would really need – allowing exciting driving when you get the chance.
I came back from the day with the conclusion that if you want an electric SUV to replace your petrol-powered daily driver, the P6 is a great option – but if you want a performance SUV that also happens to be electric, the P8 is the one to get.
Keyword: Volvo XC40 P6 coming to South Africa – More affordable electric SUV