Volvo EX30: Affordable Electric SUV Aims to Attract New Buyers

The quest for more affordable electric vehicles (EVs) continues, and Volvo is stepping into the fray with the EX30, a small SUV that marks a significant shift in the brand’s approach to pricing. Historically associated with premium vehicles, Volvo’s alignment with the Chinese automaker Geely has led to a focus on accessibility. The EX30 offers a starting price that brings electric Volvos within reach for more consumers, but the key question remains: is it affordable enough for the average buyer?

The EX30 is classified as an SUV due to its slightly elevated stance compared to compact hatchbacks, though it leans more toward the latter in design. The front diverges from Volvo’s traditional angular aesthetics, while the rear echoes the larger XC40 and C40 models. Those familiar with the original Honda HR-V will find a similar vibe in the EX30, as it is not primarily designed for off-road excursions but rather as an urban-friendly vehicle.

Volvo offers three drivetrain options for the EX30. The base model features a single-motor setup producing 268 horsepower, paired with a 51kWh (gross) battery pack. Buyers can also opt for the same motor with a larger 69kWh Extended Range battery. The top-tier variant features a dual-motor setup that delivers an impressive 422 horsepower, also utilizing the Extended Range battery. Customers can choose from three trim levels: the Core, which is single-motor only; the Plus, which accommodates all drivetrain options; and the Ultra, which is exclusive to the Extended Range battery. True to Volvo’s reputation, all variants are equipped with robust safety features, including adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist. The Plus trim enhances driver assistance and adds conveniences like a powered tailgate and heated seats, while the Ultra trim boasts luxurious touches such as a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree parking camera, 22kW AC charging, and a heat pump.

The interior of the EX30 embraces a modern, minimalist aesthetic reminiscent of the Tesla Model 3. Notably, the dashboard lacks traditional instrumentation, opting instead for a central 12.3-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. This design choice may raise eyebrows, but many users find it functional once they adjust to checking their speed on the central display. The touch buttons on the steering wheel are somewhat finicky, yet a physical stalk for windshield wiper speed provides a familiar touch. The dual-function stalk controls both drive modes and light settings. Climate control operates through the infotainment screen, which features clearly visible icons, though accessing specific functions like windshield demisting requires navigating to the climate screen first.

Volvo has fully integrated Google as the provider of its infotainment system, offering four years of live services, including navigation via Google Maps and access to the Google Play Store for app downloads. Users can also utilize Waze directly, and Spotify is included, though users must have their own account. Streaming services like YouTube are available as well, making for an advanced connected system.

Despite its minimalistic design, the EX30’s interior has thoughtful touches, such as a sliding panel that converts the area in front of the central armrest into two cupholders. A small compartment and two smartphone spaces—only one of which offers wireless charging—are also included. However, the absence of a glovebox may raise some eyebrows, with an alternative compartment situated beneath the infotainment screen.

In terms of performance and range, the EX30’s battery options are competitive but not groundbreaking in today’s EV market. The 51kWh battery offers a WLTP range of 209 miles, while the 69kWh battery provides up to 294 miles with a single motor and 279 miles with dual motors. However, during testing with the dual-motor version, real-world efficiency yielded a modest average of 2.73 miles per kWh, resulting in a practical range of about 175 miles. Charging capabilities include DC fast charging, with the smaller battery achieving up to 134kW and the Extended Range version up to 153kW. Consequently, charging from 10% to 80% takes approximately 27 minutes for the smaller battery and 25 minutes for the Extended Range version. While this means frequent charging during long journeys, it remains sufficient for urban commuting and short trips.

A notable drawback of the EX30 is its limited rear passenger and cargo space. An average-sized adult sitting behind another may find their knees nearly touching the front seat, although headroom remains ample. The luggage capacity is also more aligned with a compact hatchback than a traditional SUV, offering 318 liters with the rear seats up—less than competitors like the Volkswagen ID.3. Folding the rear seats in a 60/40 split increases the capacity to a maximum of 914 liters, but this is still below that of the ID.3 and Nissan Leaf. The EX30 can tow up to 1,000 kg with the smaller battery and 1,600 kg with the Extended Range variant. It features a small frunk, sufficient for a charging cable or a light meal.

Despite some limitations, the EX30 impresses with its performance. The base single-motor version accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.7 seconds, while the single motor with the larger Extended Range battery boasts an even quicker 5.3-second time. The dual-motor variant excels, achieving this speed in a blistering 3.6 seconds—comparable to high-performance models like the Tesla Model 3. However, while the EX30 is quick, its suspension does not entirely match its speed capabilities. During testing at the Millbrook hill track, the dual-motor version proved fun to drive, capable of taking corners with enthusiasm, but it lacks the sporty handling of a dedicated hot hatch. Nevertheless, for urban commuting and country roads, the EX30 excels, with its swift acceleration facilitating city navigation and overtaking on rural routes.

As for pricing, the EX30 stands in stark contrast to Volvo’s previous all-electric offering, the XC40 Recharge Twin, which started at around £50,000 ($66,000) in 2021. The EX30 begins at a much more approachable £32,850 ($43,000) for the Core model and £34,400 ($45,000) for the Plus. Even the high-end Ultra variant remains below £45,000 ($59,000) with the dual-motor setup. Notably, Volvo packages many features as standard, minimizing optional extras, including free paint and interior selections.

While the EX30 may not be classified as “cheap,” it enters a more mainstream price range, facing competition from models like the Kia EV3, which offers similar quality at a lower price point. Nonetheless, the EX30 has generated considerable interest since its announcement. With its limitations in rear space and range, it nevertheless meets expectations, showcasing impressive speed and solid technology. It stands as a compelling option for those seeking a small electric family vehicle primarily intended for urban use.