While the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric that was introduced in Malaysia is the pre-facelift model, Volvo Car Malaysia says new 2022 facelift model will be launched within one year.

Being a locally-assembled (CKD) model, a longer lead time is required so the new facelift model is not expected to arrive in Malaysia until 2023.

Also read: 2022 Volvo XC40 facelift introduced; Sharper looks, Android Automotive OS

What’s the difference between the pre-facelift and facelift?

Changes are fairly minor, mostly on the front fascia. There’s a new front bumper with more angular design motifs and a triangular-shaped headlamps. It basically gets the Volvo C40 look.

Volvo says there are leather-free upholstery options in the pure electric XC40 Recharge, as well as new exterior colours and rims.

Inside, changes are limited to the updated infotainment system that now runs on Android Automotive OS, which was already featured in the all-electric XC40 Recharge.

And those are pretty much the differences.

Also read: Volvo wants to overtake Porsche for No.1 luxury EV brand in Malaysia, targets higher than global

What about powertrains?

Powertrain options are carried over from before, and we expect the Volvo XC40 facelift in Malaysia to continue the current range – T5 (likely to be replaced by the mild-hybrid B5), Recharge T5, and Recharge Pure Electric.

The T5 variant has a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 252 PS/350 Nm, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system.

The Recharge T5 is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant with an electric motor sandwiched between the 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Total output is 262 PS/425 Nm.

As for the Recharge Pure Electric, it has a pair of electric motors located on the front and rear axles. Combined, the dual electric motors give out 408 PS and 660 Nm.

Also read: Launched in Malaysia: Volvo XC40 Recharge EV - First CKD EV, 408 PS/660 Nm, 418 km range