Volvo XC40 Estate 1.5 T4 Recharge PHEV R-DESIGN 5dr Auto ? Road Test Plug-in hybrids can sometimes feel like a compromise ? but the Volvo XC40 T4 Recharge PHEV makes a compelling case for electrified everyday motoring with none of the fuss. This Swedish contender blends urban efficiency, clean design, and a dash of performance into one very stylish package. Under the bonnet sits a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 211bhp through a slick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch auto. The result? A brisk, seamless drive that?s equally at home in EV-only mode around town (with around 27 miles of electric range) or cruising the motorway with hybrid efficiency. R-DESIGN trim turns up the visual drama: gloss black detailing, bold alloys, and that distinctive contrast roof. Inside, Volvo?s minimalist cabin remains one of the most tasteful in the class ? clean lines, premium materials, and the portrait-oriented infotainment system all feel solid and sophisticated. Practicality? The battery pack slightly eats into boot space, trimming it to 452 litres, but there?s still room for a weekly shop or a weekend getaway. Rear-seat space remains generous, and visibility is excellent thanks to the XC40?s boxy proportions. On the road, it?s composed rather than sporty, with a focus on comfort and refinement. The electric motor gives instant torque off the line, while the petrol engine fades in smoothly when needed. For style-conscious buyers who want a taste of electric driving without the range anxiety, the XC40 T4 Recharge R-DESIGN nails the brief with Swedish precision.