2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge vs. 2024 Jaguar I-Pace Comparison – Kelley Blue Book

The 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge and Jaguar I-Pace are electric luxury SUVs with attractive exteriors and finely honed driving dynamics. They each come with a long list of comfort and tech features, including everything from state-of-the-art infotainment systems to all-wheel drive hardware to get their electron-fueled power to the pavement seamlessly.

Don’t confuse the XC40 Recharge with its gas-powered sibling, the XC40. Yes, they look nearly identical, except for the Recharge model’s body-colored front grille. This could appeal to car shoppers who don’t necessarily want a vehicle that shouts it’s electric-powered. For the 2024 model year, the XC40 gets more driving range.

The I-Pace is less timid in terms of its appearance. This sleek 2-row SUV has smooth and flowing lines, which is what you expect from a British luxury brand known for creating beautifully proportioned vehicles. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and can sprint from 0-60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. So it’s quick like a Jag should be.

Let’s explore some highlights of the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Jaguar I-Pace.

2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge

The 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge has an asking price of $53,745, including factory-to-dealer destination charges. This compares well with rival EVs like the Tesla Model Y, Mercedes-EQ EQB, and Genesis GV60 – and is notably more affordable than the I-Pace.

Its tidy proportions make the XC40 Recharge easy to pilot in busy traffic. Its choice of two available powertrains allows a Volvo shopper to prioritize added range or increased performance. No matter your choice, the XC40 Recharge provides adult-friendly seating in either row and a reasonable cargo volume. The rear cargo area measures 16 cubic feet, and there is a small front storage area – in EV speak, a “frunk” – where the gas-fed engine would typically reside. 

Volvo XC40 Recharge Highlights

More range: Volvo has added a new rear-wheel-drive version with a single electric motor to the XC40 Recharge lineup. Like its twin-motor and all-wheel-drive sibling, it’s offered in three trims: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. The driving range in the XC40 Recharge single-motor model is 293 miles per charge. That’s competitive with many EV rivals, if not class-leading, like the Tesla Model Y’s 330 miles. The dual-motor version also sees its range improve to 254 miles, a gain of 31 miles compared to the previous model year. 

Google-based infotainment: The XC40 Recharge has a Google-based infotainment system that’s operated via a 9-inch touchscreen. While some luxury SUVs have bigger screens, the system responds quickly to inputs, and having Google navigation and voice commands is a bonus. Fear not, iPhone users, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard. 

Pilot Assist: This uses the adaptive cruise control system as its base and can maintain lane positioning, speed, and distance from surrounding vehicles. No, it’s not a hands-free system, but it goes a long way toward taking some stress and fatigue out of long stints behind the wheel.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the XC40 Recharge models for sale near you.

2024 Jaguar I-Pace

The Jaguar I-Pace comes in one trim, dubbed the R-Dynamic HSE, and is priced starting at $73,775, including destination fee. If that figure made you do a double-take, don’t feel bad. The I-Pace indeed has a considerably higher price than the XC40 Recharge, not to mention a number of other small luxury EVs. 

To its credit, the I-Pace comes packed with features like all-wheel drive, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a Meridian surround-sound stereo. It’s also very powerful; you have 394 horsepower and 512 lb-ft of torque at your disposal, along with 246 miles of range. 

Jaguar I-Pace Highlights 

Jaguar driving manners: That mention of horsepower and torque is a good segue into how the I-Pace justifies its price. Sure, accelerating from 0-60 mph takes about 4.5 seconds. That’s pretty rapid, but it’s how the I-Pace rides and handles that really sets it apart. An available adaptive suspension keeps things nicely under control, even over particularly nasty stretches of bumpy pavement. Steering responses are equally impressive. The I-Pace shines on twisty roads and inspires tons of confidence in the driver. 

Driver Intelligence Pack: If you’re going all in on a ritzy Jaguar luxury vehicle, why skimp on some extras? This is why we think the available Driver Intelligence Pack is worth consideration. For $1,900, it adds a head-up instrument display, a digital rearview camera, and an onboard Wi-Fi hot spot. 

Sporty stance: The I-Pace is technically an SUV, though it has the proportions and sleek lines of a sporty 4-door wagon. Despite being on sale since the 2019 model year, the I-Pace still turns heads. Options like several choices of 22-inch alloy wheels, metallic exterior paint, and a contrasting black roof further enhance this Jaguar’s elegant design. 

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the I-Pace models for sale near you. 

Similarities

The XC40 Recharge and Jaguar I-Pace will never need a single drop of gasoline, and each represents an entertaining entry point into the world of EVs. Crisp steering, quick acceleration, and a modicum of SUV practicality make them compelling choices.

Conclusion

The Volvo XC40 Recharge and Jaguar I-Pace prove that electric luxury SUVs are exciting alternatives to gas-powered models. Regarding practicality and price, the XC40 Recharge surges ahead in this comparison. It looks and drives more like a traditional SUV, and it comes with Volvo’s excellent track record for safety.

On the other hand, the I-Pace is more of a passion purchase. With its swept-back design and honed driving dynamics, this electrified Jaguar is a joy to drive. Yet the simple fact that it costs so much more than the Volvo – and has less driving range – means this pretty kitty slinks its way to second place in this contest.