With online bookings only, the Volvo C40 Sage Green was the most popular pick.
Just last week the all new Volvo C40 electric sports compact SUV was launched in Malaysia at an asking price of RM288,888. Available in a variety of colors and also one interesting new color called ‘Sage Green’, this latest battery powered vehicle can ONLY be booked ‘online’ which is a new direction taken by Volvo Car in Malaysia.
Yes, Volvo showrooms nationwide are still open and they will assist buyers to order online if need be, but this ‘online’ move is a ‘global initiative’ by Volvo and also some other European car manufacturers which have yet to start this process in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Malaysian premium car buyer’s eager to make the transition to an all-electric vehicle now have two distinct choices within the Volvo model lineup. This all new C40 Recharge and also the XC40 Recharge which offers a combination of efficiency, exhilaration, style and premium features that are simply too interesting to ignore.
Interestingly, right after the C40 launch, the Volvo Car Malaysia online booking system had a surge of interest and even dealers had some issues making bookings. This however settled in a day and the system is now working well.
It seems that the surge happened with most Malaysian buyers wanted the C40 in ‘Sage Green’ colour. Yes, this new color was the most popular choice over the weekend.
Speaking to a few ‘on the ground’ sales people, there a mix of young, middle aged and even older Malaysians coming into showrooms to see and compare between the C40 and XC40 Recharge models.
Looks like the younger generation were more interested in the coupe like sporty C40 and the older buyers preferred the more upright XC40.
Let’s take a closer look at both. Beginning with the interior and exterior dimension, you will notice a number of similarities between the Volvo C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge.
Both models share identical wheelbases and body widths while the C40 has a slightly lower body height and longer total exterior width than its XC40 sibling.
Interior measurements are again quite similar with both EVs sharing identical rear cargo volumes along with identical front and rear legroom and shoulder room measurements. The distinction comes when comparing headroom measurements.
The C40 boasts greater headroom in the front while the XC40 offers superior rear headroom, largely due to their individual roofline shapes and this is probably why the older buyers prefer the XC40’s upright stance.
A common theme for both is the fact that they are both crafted with an emphasis on sustainability. They each feature recycled materials used in the door panels and carpet fibers, helping to minimize their impact on our environment and this was popular point with the younger buyers.
However, it’s the C40 Recharge that has the distinction of being the very first 100 percent leather-free Volvo vehicle ever produced and this is what younger buyers appreciate.
Plus, lets not ignore the new ‘nose’ design of the C40 which is the design direction of all coming Volvo electric vehicles, grille free!
