February saw a new Volvo debut in Malaysia. Volvo Cars Malaysia introduced the redesigned Volvo C40 for the unchanged price of RM288,888, even thought we can look forward to vastly improved range and charging speed. Here in Malaysia, the C40 is still registered under the C40 nameplate even though it is now known worldwide as the EC40.
From the exterior, the C40 in Malaysia looks similar to the current model. But if you look closely, you might notice that Volvo has fitted the all-electric crossover with new 19-inch alloy wheels, which it claims improve aerodynamics. Along with a new vapour grey exterior colour choice, the Pixel LED headlights are also new.
The Volvo C40 is still powered by an all-wheel drive (AWD) system in Malaysia, producing 408 hp and 660 Nm. Instead of having a 50:50 layout, the AWD system now has a more powerful motor at the back, making it more rear-biased. In particular, the front motor produces 117 kW, and the rear motor produces 183 kW. In contrast, two 150 kW motors were present in the C40’s earlier version.
A bigger and newer 82 kWh battery pack has also replaced the previous one, which had a 78 kWh capacity—resulting in a 550 km driving range, some 99 km more than before.
The maximum DC charging rate of the crossover has been increased from 150 kW to 200 kW, meaning that charging the new Volvo C40 may now be completed more quickly. With the faster charging rate, charging the battery from 10% to 80% just takes 27 minutes.
Inside, the new Volvo C40 is still equipped with two screens which incorporate the Google Android Automotive OS-powered 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment display.
In Malaysia, the C40 also includes a free 5-year subscription to Google Services, which grants users access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Play Store, and remote Volvo Cars app features. So you don’t own an Android mobile device? No worries—Apple CarPlay connectivity is also featured. The C40 also has other interior features such a panoramic glass roof, rear air conditioning vents, and a wireless charging pad. A PM2.5 air filter unit is also included in the climate control system’s equipment.
It would be impossible to discuss a new Volvo without mentioning its safety features? The latest safety aid technologies from the Swedish automaker include Intellisafe which is fitted to C40s built for Malaysian consumers. Among other features, you will find Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM), Lane-Keeping Assist (LKA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with intersection support, and cross-traffic detection with auto brake.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
The new C40 arrives back in showrooms boasting a huge leap in features. Apart from a sizable jump in safety features—making this EV one of the safest on the market, you will also find that it offers better range and quicker charging capabilities in addition to a price that has not changed. Some may see this price as a little on the expensive side, but hey, the C40 does offer a lot, great ride quality and some real street cred too.