FASH DRIVE - Volvo C40 Recharge

With a selection of three trim levels and the choice of a front or fourwheel-drive, the C40 Recharge is not only sleek but it’s a good-looking SUV that’s also pure electric.

Opt for the four-wheel-drive version that’s badged as the Recharge Twin and it has two electric motors (one for each axle), you also get a larger 78kWh battery that has an official WLTP range of 273 miles. Not only that, but with a weight limit of 1800kg it’ll tow a decent size caravan too.

Usually a 20 minute test drive doesn’t tell you a lot about a car, but this test drive was around the Hill Route at Millbrook during a media day, and therefore I learnt a fair bit.

For one it’s bloody rapid! The dual motor, four-wheel-drive Recharge Twin has a combined power output of 402bhp, giving it a 0-62mph sprint time of just 4.7sec. Opt for the single motor, front-wheel-drive Volvo C40 Recharge and that has 228bhp available, and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.4sec, which is more than sufficient for most people’s needs.

It isn’t just a one-trick pony either, the Recharge Twin handled the twist and turns of the test track admirably with plenty of grip and minimal body roll - which was good fun.

The brakes responded well and there's a 'one-pedal' driving function that means the car decelerates gently to a complete stop as soon as you lift off the accelerator. It’s a bit weird at first but you soon get used to it.

Inside, the C40 has Volvo’s latest driver instrument cluster with clear graphics and a design that's easy to read, and the front seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustment.

First impressions after just 20 minutes and I was hooked, I’m really looking forward to getting my hands on one for a week, a Recharge Twin, obviously.

price: from £47,100 more at » www.volvocars.com