The Volvo XC40, a compact luxury SUV, represents a significant entry in the premium crossover segment, offering a compelling blend of Scandinavian design, advanced safety features, and innovative powertrain technology. The specific variant, the Volvo XC40 1.5 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 (262 Hp) DCTH, encapsulates Volvo’s commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility within its well-regarded XC40 generation. Produced from September 2019 to March 2022, this model carved out a niche for itself as a sophisticated and eco-conscious option for consumers in global markets, including North America and Europe, seeking the versatility of an SUV coupled with the efficiency benefits of a plug-in hybrid. Its introduction marked a pivotal moment in Volvo’s strategy to electrify its entire lineup, showcasing how premium quality and environmental responsibility could coexist in an accessible package.
Powertrain and Performance: The Volvo XC40 1.5 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 (262 Hp) DCTH
At the heart of the Volvo XC40 1.5 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 (262 Hp) DCTH lies a sophisticated Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain architecture, meticulously engineered to deliver both spirited performance and remarkable fuel efficiency. This innovative system combines the strengths of a turbocharged internal combustion engine (ICE) with a potent electric motor, driving the front wheels through a seamless 7-speed automatic DCTH transmission. The internal combustion component is a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder, inline engine, designated with the model code B3154T5. This compact yet powerful unit features direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and a DOHC valvetrain, producing a robust 180 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 195.45 lb.-ft. of torque across a broad range from 1500 to 3000 rpm. Its design emphasizes efficiency and responsiveness, making it an ideal partner for the electric drive system.
Complementing the gasoline engine is an integrated electric motor, which contributes an additional 82 horsepower and 118.01 lb.-ft. of torque. This electric motor is strategically placed within the transmission, ensuring efficient power delivery and seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and gasoline-only modes. The combined system output is an impressive 262 horsepower and a substantial 313.46 lb.-ft. of system torque, providing the XC40 Recharge with lively acceleration. The vehicle can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a quick 6.9 seconds, demonstrating its dynamic capabilities. Its top speed is electronically limited to 111.85 mph, aligning with Volvo’s commitment to safety and responsible performance.
The PHEV system is powered by a 400-volt Lithium-ion battery pack, with a gross capacity of 10.7 kWh and a usable capacity of 8.5 kWh, cleverly located within the central tunnel to optimize weight distribution and interior space. This battery enables an all-electric range of 26.72 to 27.96 miles (WLTP cycle), allowing for emissions-free commuting for many daily trips. In electric-only mode, the XC40 Recharge can reach speeds up to 77.67 mph. When operating in hybrid mode, the vehicle achieves exceptional fuel economy, with a combined WLTP rating of 102.3 to 112 US mpg, and remarkably low CO2 emissions of 47-52 g/km, classifying it as an Euro 6d compliant vehicle. This impressive efficiency is further supported by features like a Start & Stop System and a particulate filter, underscoring Volvo’s dedication to environmental performance without compromising on the premium driving experience.
Design and Advanced Features
The Volvo XC40 1.5 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 (262 Hp) DCTH embodies Volvo’s contemporary design language, characterized by a distinctive, confident stance and thoughtful details. As a compact SUV, it offers a practical and versatile body type with five doors and seating for five occupants, making it highly suitable for urban environments and family adventures alike. Its exterior dimensions – a length of 174.21 inches, a width of 73.35 inches (80.08 inches including mirrors), and a height of 65.04 inches – contribute to its agile yet substantial presence on the road. A wheelbase of 106.38 inches provides a stable and comfortable ride, while a ground clearance of 8.31 inches allows for confident navigation over varied terrain, typical of the SUV segment.
The design ethos extends to practicality and occupant comfort. The trunk offers a minimum cargo volume of 14.3 cubic feet, expanding to a generous 45.24 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, catering to diverse cargo needs. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 3829.43 pounds speaks to its solid construction, while a maximum permissible weight of 5048.59 pounds highlights its robust carrying capacity. Volvo’s renowned commitment to safety is inherently integrated into the XC40’s structure and features. While specific ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) are not detailed in the raw data, the inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Volvo’s overarching safety philosophy ensures a comprehensive protective environment for occupants. The vehicle features ventilated disc brakes at both the front (296×25-345×30 mm) and rear (280×12-340×20 mm), providing strong and consistent stopping power.
Underneath, the XC40 Recharge utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, paired with an independent multi-link spring suspension and stabilizer at the rear. This setup is engineered to deliver a balanced ride, combining comfort with responsive handling. Steering is managed by a precise electric power steering system with a rack and pinion setup, offering excellent feedback and maneuverability, indicated by a minimum turning circle of 38.71 feet. The choice of tire sizes, ranging from 235/55 R18 to 245/40 R21, mounted on corresponding wheel rims (7.5J x 18 to 8J x 21), allows for customization in both aesthetics and driving dynamics. The XC40 Recharge also boasts impressive off-road geometry for its class, with an approach angle of 21.7°, a departure angle of 30.4°, and a ramp-over angle of 21.9°, further enhancing its versatility as a modern SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | XC40 |
| Generation | XC40 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T5 (262 Hp) DCTH |
| Start of production | September, 2019 year |
| End of production | March, 2022 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.5-8.8 l/100 km (27.7 – 26.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.7-7 l/100 km (35.1 – 33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at High speed (WLTP) | 5.5-6.4 l/100 km (42.8 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Very High speed (WLTP) | 7.3-8.2 l/100 km (32.2 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 2.1-2.3 l/100 km (112 – 102.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 47-52 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 1.8-1.9 l/100 km (130.7 – 123.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 41-45 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| 100 km/h – 0 | 36 m |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 150.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 10.7 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 8.5 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | In the central tunnel |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 43-45 km (26.72 – 27.96 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 47-50 km (29.2 – 31.07 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 15.2-16.1 kWh/100 km (24.46 – 25.91 kWh/100 mi, 138 – 130 MPGe) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 15.6-15.9 kWh/100 km (25.11 – 25.59 kWh/100 mi, 134 – 132 MPGe) |
| Max speed (electric) | 125 km/h (77.67 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 82 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 262 Hp |
| System torque | 425 Nm (313.46 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5800 rpm. |
| Power per liter | 121.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm. (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm.) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm. |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B3154T5 |
| Engine displacement | 1477 cm3 (90.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1737 kg (3829.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 553 kg (1219.16 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 405 l (14.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1281 l (45.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4425 mm (174.21 in.) |
| Width | 1863 mm (73.35 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1910 mm (75.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2034 mm (80.08 in.) |
| Height | 1652 mm (65.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm (106.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1601 mm (63.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 868 mm (34.17 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 211 mm (8.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.7° |
| Departure angle | 30.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCTH |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 296×25-345×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 280×12-340×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19; 235/45 R20; 245/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19; 8J x 20; 8J x 21 |
