The difference, for the most part, is the rear end of the car.  The XC40 is a full (if relatively small) SUV, whilst the C40 is maybe better described as a 'fastback'.

When BMW did this with a few of their models, such as the X4 and X6, I really didn't like it.  I didn't like the styling and, dare I say it, it reminded me of when Jeremy Clarkson described the Chrysler Crossfire as looking like a dog squatting down to do its business...

But, maybe because I am a little older, I actually liked the look of the Volvo a little better.  However, I have to admit, much as I may have warmed to the SUV / Fastback blend a little, I still prefer the XC40 overall for its looks and, most importantly, its practicality.

On the Road

The C40 Recharge Twin seems to share its dynamics almost exactly with the XC40 Recharge Twin.  However, if you check the statistics from EV Database rather than rely on Volvo's figures, the C40 is a little quicker from 0-62 mph and is a bit more efficient too.

However, they both drive well and both have the ability to go exceedingly quickly.

Interior

Up front, where I was sat, the C40 is equally as comfortable and roomy as the XC40.  And, again, felt far less cramped that its Polestar cousin the 2.

Whilst I didn't sit in the back, and didn't have cause to carry rear seat passengers during my time in the car, I would guess that the the C40's coupe silhouette and the low, sloping roofline will reduce the amount of rear head room.  I would expect that taller passengers will struggle, as the backs of their heads may well be touching the headlining.

I did have an issue with the infotainment screen in the car I was provided with, where maps weren't being displayed properly.  Interestingly, his only happened on the second time they loaned me the car and I wonder they had another software issue like they did with my MG.

The boot space is, as you would expect, smaller than in the XC40 at 489 litres compared with 578 litres, but it's still a reasonably useful space.

Range and Charging

The twin motor car that I drove, with its larger 78kWh battery, has an official WLTP range of 316 miles.  This compares to 296 miles in the single motor car, with its 67kWh battery.  Real ranges will tend to be lower, as we don't all drive the same and most of us cannot match the basis under which the WLTP ranges are calculated.  You would be better expecting a range of around 250 miles (for a blend of town and motorway driving) in summer, and less in the winter.

Once you've reached a public charging point, the twin motor C40 can accept a charge at a rate of up to 149kW, with the single motor restricted to 136kW.  These figures were for the 2022 car that I drove and I believe the latest twin motor model can accept a charge rate of 205kW.

Verdict

The C40 drives well and is a quality car.  However, it is marginally more expensive than its more practical and, for rear seat passengers, more comfortable sister, the XC40.  For me, the XC40 is by far the better all round package, but if you're a fan of the fastback look and don't expect to regularly carry tall passengers in the rear, then its a decent option.