The Volvo EX40, launched in India on October 9, 2024, represents a significant step in Volvo Cars’ journey toward electrification and sustainability. Previously known as the XC40 Recharge, this fully electric compact SUV has been rebranded to align with Volvo’s new naming convention for its electric vehicle (EV) lineup. Designed to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly luxury vehicles in India, the EX40 combines Volvo’s signature Scandinavian design, cutting-edge technology, and a strong emphasis on safety—a hallmark of the brand. With its sleek aesthetics, robust electric powertrain, and premium features, the EX40 is positioned as an attractive option for urban buyers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and environmental consciousness.
The Indian EV market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing environmental awareness, government incentives, and improving charging infrastructure. In this context, the Volvo EX40 enters as a premium offering, targeting buyers in metro cities who value luxury, innovation, and sustainability. Available in two variants—Plus and Ultimate—this SUV promises a refined driving experience with zero tailpipe emissions, making it a standout choice in the luxury EV segment. This detailed product overview will explore the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of the car, along with its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Volvo EX40 is equipped with advanced electric powertrains tailored to deliver impressive performance and efficiency. Below is a comprehensive table summarizing its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 26, 2025.
| Specification | EX40 Plus (Single Motor) | EX40 Ultimate (Dual Motor) |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single Electric Motor, Rear-Wheel Drive | Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive |
| Battery Capacity | 69 kWh | 78 kWh |
| Max Power | 238 bhp | 408 bhp |
| Max Torque | 420 Nm | 660 Nm |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Range (WLTP) | 475 km | 418 km |
| Top Speed | 180 kmph | 180 kmph |
| Acceleration (0-100 kmph) | 7.3 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Charging Time (DC, 150 kW) | 10-80% in 28 minutes | 10-80% in 28 minutes |
| Charging Time (AC, 11 kW) | 8-10 hours | 8-10 hours |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4425 mm x 1873 mm x 1647 mm | 4425 mm x 1873 mm x 1647 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm | 2702 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2113 kg | 2205 kg |
| Boot Space | 460 litres (+31 litres frunk) | 460 litres (+31 litres frunk) |
| Ground Clearance | 175 mm | 175 mm |
| Tyre Size | Front: 235/50 R19, Rear: 255/45 R19 | Front: 235/50 R19, Rear: 255/45 R19 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Safety Features | 7 Airbags, ADAS, ABS, TPMS | 7 Airbags, ADAS, ABS, TPMS |
Variants
The Volvo EX40 is offered in two distinct variants in India, each catering to different buyer preferences in terms of performance and features. Below is a table detailing the variants:
| Variant | Key Features | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| EX40 Plus | Single Motor, 69 kWh Battery, 475 km Range, 9-inch Touchscreen, 12-inch Digital Cluster | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| EX40 Ultimate | Dual Motor, 78 kWh Battery, 418 km Range, AWD, Premium Harman Kardon Audio, 360° Camera | All-Wheel Drive |
Price in Metro Cities
The pricing of the Volvo EX40 varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table showcasing the ex-showroom price and approximate on-road price in key Indian metro cities as of March 26, 2025, based on data from CarDekho and CarWale:
| City | EX40 Plus (Ex-Showroom) | EX40 Plus (On-Road) | EX40 Ultimate (Ex-Showroom) | EX40 Ultimate (On-Road) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹56.10 Lakh | ₹66.50 Lakh | ₹57.90 Lakh | ₹68.50 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹56.10 Lakh | ₹57.80 Lakh | ₹57.90 Lakh | ₹60.89 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹56.10 Lakh | ₹66.52 Lakh | ₹57.90 Lakh | ₹68.52 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹56.10 Lakh | ₹60.00 Lakh | ₹57.90 Lakh | ₹62.00 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹56.10 Lakh | ₹57.80 Lakh | ₹57.90 Lakh | ₹60.89 Lakh |
| Hyderabad | ₹56.10 Lakh | ₹57.80 Lakh | ₹57.90 Lakh | ₹60.89 Lakh |
Note: On-road prices are approximate and include RTO, insurance, and other charges. Prices may vary based on dealer offers and additional accessories.
About the Volvo EX40
Design and Aesthetics
The Volvo EX40 embodies the brand’s minimalist yet sophisticated design philosophy. Its exterior features a blanked-out grille—a signature of electric vehicles—flanked by sleek LED headlamps with Thor’s Hammer-inspired daytime running lights. The SUV’s compact dimensions (4425 mm in length) make it ideal for navigating crowded urban streets, while its 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and black cladding on the bumpers lend it a rugged yet premium appeal. The vertically stacked LED taillights enhance its modern look, and the six available color options—Crystal White, Fjord Blue, Onyx Black, Sage Green, Cloud Blue, and Sand Dune—offer buyers ample personalization choices.
Inside, the EX40 exudes luxury with a contemporary cabin layout. The dashboard is dominated by a 12-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a vertically oriented 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS. This system integrates Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, providing seamless connectivity for five years (post which new terms apply). The use of sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics and leather-free upholstery, reflects Volvo’s commitment to sustainability. However, the rear seat is best suited for two passengers due to its slightly upright backrest and limited under-thigh support, though it offers ample knee room and headroom.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Volvo EX40 offers two powertrain options, each delivering a distinct driving experience. The Plus variant, with its single motor and 69 kWh battery, produces 238 bhp and 420 Nm of torque, achieving a WLTP-claimed range of 475 km. This rear-wheel-drive configuration ensures smooth and agile performance, with a 0-100 kmph sprint in 7.3 seconds. The Ultimate variant, equipped with dual motors and a 78 kWh battery, ups the ante with 408 bhp and 660 Nm, cutting the 0-100 kmph time to 4.9 seconds and offering all-wheel-drive capability. Its range, however, drops to 418 km due to the higher power output and AWD system.
Both variants feature a single-speed automatic transmission and a top speed capped at 180 kmph, typical for EVs in this segment. The EX40’s one-pedal driving mode, accessible via the infotainment settings, enhances city driving by allowing regenerative braking to slow the vehicle when the accelerator is released. While the ride quality is tuned for comfort—absorbing bumps effectively—the SUV’s 2-tonne-plus weight is noticeable during sharp maneuvers, making handling less dynamic than some rivals. Real-world range estimates hover around 350-400 km, depending on driving style and conditions, which is sufficient for daily commutes and short highway trips.
Charging and Battery Technology
Charging convenience is a critical factor for EV adoption, and the Volvo EX40 excels in this area. Using a 150 kW DC fast charger, both variants can charge from 10% to 80% in just 28 minutes, making it one of the faster-charging options in its class. For home charging, an 11 kW AC charger takes 8-10 hours for a full charge, while a 50 kW DC charger requires about 2.5 hours. Volvo recommends its proprietary wallbox for efficient home charging, ensuring compatibility with the Type 2 socket. The ability to precondition the battery while charging optimizes range, particularly in extreme weather conditions.
Features and Technology
The EX40 is packed with premium features that elevate its appeal. The Plus variant includes a 9-inch touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, powered front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Ultimate variant adds a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a 360-degree camera, and heated/cooled seats, enhancing the luxury quotient. Both variants come with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring, reinforcing Volvo’s focus on safety. The SUV also boasts seven airbags, ABS with EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and ISOFIX mounts, earning it a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (based on the XC40 platform).
Storage is practical, with a 460-litre boot and a 31-litre frunk under the bonnet, though the spare tyre placement above the boot floor slightly reduces luggage space. The lack of physical buttons for some controls (shifted to the touchscreen) may require an adjustment period, but the intuitive interface compensates for this.
Safety and Build Quality
Volvo’s reputation for safety is well-earned, and the EX40 upholds this legacy. Its robust build quality, combined with a comprehensive safety suite, makes it one of the safest EVs in its segment. The 5-star NCAP rating (inherited from the XC40) is a testament to its crashworthiness, while features like ADAS and seven airbags provide active and passive protection. The SUV’s high-strength steel chassis and low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) enhance stability, particularly at high speeds.
Market Positioning and Buyer Appeal
In India, the Volvo EX40 targets affluent urban buyers in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where EV infrastructure is rapidly expanding. Priced between ₹56.10 lakh and ₹57.90 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes in the premium EV segment, offering a balance of luxury, performance, and sustainability. Its compact size suits congested city roads, while its electric powertrain aligns with the government’s push for greener mobility. However, its price point places it above mainstream EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and below larger luxury options like the BMW iX, carving a unique niche.
Close Competitors
The Volvo EX40 faces competition from several premium EVs and luxury SUVs in India. Here’s an in-depth look at its close competitors:
BMW iX1
The BMW iX1, priced at around ₹66.90 lakh (ex-showroom), is a direct rival in the luxury compact EV segment. It offers a 66.4 kWh battery with a range of 417-440 km (WLTP) and dual motors producing 313 bhp. The iX1 excels in driving dynamics and interior refinement, with a sportier edge compared to the EX40’s comfort-focused tuning. However, its higher price and slightly lower range make the EX40 a more value-driven option.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Priced at ₹46.05 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a more affordable alternative. It features a 72.6 kWh battery, delivering a 631 km ARAI-certified range and 217 bhp in its single-motor variant. The Ioniq 5’s retro-futuristic design and spacious cabin appeal to a broader audience, but it lacks the EX40’s premium badge and AWD option, positioning it as a less luxurious competitor.
Volvo C40 Recharge
The Volvo C40 Recharge, priced at ₹62.95 lakh (ex-showroom), is an in-house rival with a coupe-SUV design. It shares the EX40 Ultimate’s 78 kWh battery and 408 bhp dual-motor setup, offering a 530 km WLTP range. While the C40 targets buyers seeking a sportier aesthetic, its higher price and sloping roofline (reducing rear headroom) make the EX40 a more practical choice for families.
MINI Countryman Electric
The MINI Countryman Electric, expected at around ₹50-55 lakh, offers a 66.45 kWh battery with a 400-450 km range and 204 bhp. Its quirky design and agile handling appeal to younger buyers, but its smaller size and lower power output place it below the EX40 in terms of luxury and performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Premium build quality and Scandinavian design
- Impressive acceleration (especially Ultimate variant)
- Comprehensive safety features with a 5-star rating
- Fast DC charging capability
- Comfortable ride for city and highway use
Cons
- Rear seat best for two, lacking under-thigh support
- Real-world range lower than claimed
- Handling could be sharper
- Higher price compared to mainstream EVs
Verdict
The Volvo EX40 is a compelling addition to India’s luxury EV market, blending style, safety, and sustainability in a compact package. Its two variants cater to different needs—Plus for efficiency-focused buyers and Ultimate for performance enthusiasts—while its pricing reflects its premium positioning. Compared to rivals like the BMW iX1 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, the EX40 strikes a balance between luxury and practicality, though its range and rear-seat comfort could be improved. For metro city dwellers seeking a refined electric SUV with Volvo’s trusted badge, the EX40 is a worthy contender, poised to make a mark in India’s evolving EV landscape.
