Reviewed: Volvo EX30 electric SUV
The Volvo EX30 is a fully electric SUV with a range is up to 476km. Photos: Liz Dobson/Volvo
The Volvo EX30 has international appeal not only for being a finalist for the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year 2024 and category winner for Best Family Car but also as there is a Kiwi connection.
The EX30 is the smallest SUV ever launched by Volvo Cars and is built on a purpose-designed electric vehicle platform. In addition to battery electric power that produces zero tailpipe emissions, it has been developed with a focus on keeping its carbon footprint to a minimum across the complete vehicle lifecycle.
Consumers have a choice of three electric powertrains: a Single Motor Extended Range with battery capacity of 69kWh; and a Twin Motor Performance model with 315kW and a 69kWh battery making it the fastest Volvo ever.
The interior of the EX30 is clean with just a 12.3in touchscreen system.
Its driving range is up to 476km and its battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in a little over 25 minutes.
Not only is New Zealand one of the first countries outside of Europe to sell it, AutoMuse was one the first motoring websites here to review it.
The Volvo EX30 pricing starts from $74,990 for the Plus Single Motor Extended Range, $4000 more for the Ultra Single Motor Extended Range and $84,990 for the Ultra Twin Motor Performance.
Volvo Cars New Zealand expect to receive its first customer arrivals in early April, with the first two shipments already sold out, orders are now being taken for June-July arrivals.
So what makes the fully electric Volvo EX30 so special? For a start, it's no surprise that it stands out due to its design, inside and out.
The seamlessly blends cutting-edge design, exceptional performance, precise handling, and robust safety features to deliver an unparalleled construction experience. With its compact yet powerful build, the EX30 stands out in the competitive landscape now of Battery Electric Vehicles. (BEVs)
The Volvo EX30 has clean exterior liines.
Its sleek and modern exterior design not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its overall functionality. It has the iconic Volvo touches of Thor’s hammer front headlights plus stunning rear lights.
The EX30's ergonomic cabin is simplistic and I like that nothing is too fussy with most functions controlled through the iPad-sized screen.
Talking of the interior, the wool covering option has a Kiwi connection with products sourced from farms in Marlborough, Canterbury and Central Otago used to create the seats.
All EX30s have a 12.3in touchscreen system that was co-developed with Google. As standard you get Google Maps and Google Assistant. There's no smartphone mirroring at present, although Volvo says Apple CarPlay will be added via an over-the-air update in the not-too-distant future.
It also has a great sound system thanks to the Harman Kardon Premium Surround Sound System with a sound bar running the length of the front windscreen, turning the Volvo into a ‘car-aoke’ machine!
The Volvo EX30 starts from $74,990.
There is also the cute noise it makes when you start it up. My neighbour is an architectural firm so when I first started it in the morning and they rushed to the doors, I assumed it was the cliche about architects only driving Volvos.
But no, they told me that there is an external musical noise when it starts up that sounds like Mr Whippy, hence them all rushing from their desks, probably keen for a (personal favourite) chocolate coated ice-cream with a flake!
The Volvo EX30 is built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), a versatile platform designed to accommodate various powertrains, including electric propulsion systems. SPA provides a solid foundation for the EX30, offering structural integrity, safety features, and a spacious interior.
Equipped with a cutting-edge battery system, the EX30 delivers impressive range capabilities. Its lithium-ion battery pack boasts high energy density and efficient thermal management, allowing for extended driving distances on a single charge. With advancements in battery technology, the EX30 achieves a competitive range that meets the demands of daily commutes and longer journeys alike.
The Volvo EX30 can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in a little over 25 minutes.
Volvo has prioritised driving dynamics in the EX30, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. The electric powertrain delivers instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration and confident overtaking maneuvers. Additionally, the EX30 benefits from Volvo's expertise in chassis tuning, with precise steering and well-balanced suspension dynamics.
Volvo managed to strike between ride comfort and handling is almost spot-on. The suspension is supple enough to take the sting out of typical urban road scars, making the EX30 more comfortable
What is the Volvo EX30’s New Zealand competitors? Hyundai Kona Electric, Jeep Avenger and the Kia Niro EV.
There are a couple of niggles; the car opens via a card that you touch the B-pillar with (like Teslas) or a proximity key, but there is no fob to open the car.
The Volvo EX30 has the iconic Thor’s hammer front headlights.
But I think that when Volvo updates the EX30 it will revert to a fob as it is easy to access the vehicle.
Also, as the vehicle starts when the driver sits on the seat, when they leave the car turns off. If you have passengers that means no music but luckily you can have air conditioning turned on via the screen.
Like Tesla, there is also a Volvo app that can preset the temperature of the vehicle and open it.
The Volvo EX30 emerges as a compelling option in the electric vehicle market, leveraging Volvo's renowned engineering prowess and commitment to sustainability. With its robust platform, advanced battery technology, and engaging driving dynamics, the EX30 offers a compelling blend of performance and practicality for eco-conscious drivers.
