The XC40 Recharge is the electrified version of Volvo’s compact crossover. This all-electric vehicle boasts impressive specs and numerous infotainment features. It also offers shoppers multiple trim levels, options, and packages to personalize their purchase. Of course, all of that customization comes at a price. Expect to pay thousands over the base model if you want a fully loaded 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge.  

What differentiates the 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge trims?

The 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge offers three trim levels: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. They all have dual electric motors and a 78-kWh battery pack producing 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. The estimated range is 223 miles on a full battery.

Furthermore, this crossover earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The XC40 Recharge’s advanced driver-assistance systems include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, a rear backup camera, and rear parking sensors.

Starting at $53,550, the base-model Core includes automatic high beams, power-folding and auto-dimming side mirrors, and keyless entry with a proximity key fob. In addition, it boasts a large 12.3-inch driver information display and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google apps, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Although the XC40 Recharge doesn’t have a spare tire, it has a tire repair kit with an electric air compressor and sealant.

With a retail price of $56,250, the Plus trim adds a panoramic moonroof, LED fog lights, a 360-degree camera, and power-folding rear headrests. Upgraded upholstery with microfiber inserts, a 12-volt outlet, and a HomeLink garage door opener are also standard. 

Last, the aptly named top trim is the Ultimate, starting at $59,500. Its signature addition is a climate package with a heat pump, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and headlight washers. This trim also includes Pilot Assist, consisting of adaptive cruise control and other semiautonomous driving features. Additionally, the Ultimate boasts a 600-watt 13-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, an air purifier, and 20-inch wheels (the Core and the Plus have 19-inch wheels).

How much does a fully loaded 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge cost?s

The range-topping 2023 XC40 Recharge Ultimate comes with numerous standard features but also offers extras for further customization. 

For instance, the most expensive options are a tow bar hitch ($1,375), running boards ($1,200), and a Fjord Blue interior colorway ($1,100). But there are plenty of other ways to customize the XC40 Recharge if you’re willing to pay the price.

Aside from the standard Black exterior paint, Volvo offers seven premium colors — Onyx Black, Thunder Grey, Fjord Blue, Silver Dawn, Bright Dusk, Crystal White, and Sage Green — for $695. Buyers can also add pixel LED headlights ($350) and other exterior features like front mud flaps ($200), roof spoilers ($400), and a Premier Protection Package ($470). 

Adding all of those extras and the $1,095 destination fee to the Ultimate’s $59,500 starting price brings the cost of a fully loaded 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge to $66,775.

Which trim offers the best value?

In all of its forms, the 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge is a well-made, relatively affordable EV. Your choice of trims and options depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. But if you want the best value, one trim stands out. 

Reviewers at Car and Driver and Autotrader recommend the Ultimate because it’s only $3,000 more than the Plus trim but offers many more features and upgrades. Consumers seem to agree because Edmunds’ research shows the Ultimate is the most popular trim.