Tech

Volvo wants to rub shoulders with Tesla with the EX30, a compact electric SUV from €37,500

Volvo has finally lifted the veil on the EX30, its brand new 100% electric compact SUV. With this model, which combines sleek design, affordable price and advanced technologies, the Swedish brand wants to strengthen its position on the electric market.

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

Until then, Volvo had three models in its electric range: the C40 Recharge, which has just benefited from a welcome redesign, the XC40 Recharge and the EX90, the safest SUV ever built by the brand.

However, a few days ago, the manufacturer teased the arrival of its next electric vehicle: the EX30, a compact SUV that will display a design “in the purest Scandinavian tradition”. However, to find out more, we had to wait until Wednesday, June 7, the official presentation date of the EX30 in Milan. It’s now done.

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

Volvo presents its first electric compact SUV

The EX30 comes as the brand’s first compact electric SUV.We like to say that the Volvo EX30 is small but mighty because it offers everything you expect from a Volvo, but in a more compact format”, summarizes Jim Royan, Managing Director of Volvo Cars.

As we discussed in our first EX30 review, Volvo’s SUV adopts minimalist design, which combines simplicity, practicality and elegance. We find this long wheelbase, its large wheels and equal travel for a balanced and rather refined line. The characteristic signs of Volvo’s electric models, such as this closed shield and its Thor’s hammer-shaped headlights, are present. Be careful however, this compact aspect inevitably impacts the volume of the trunk, which goes to 318 liters.

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

A minimalist and well-thought-out interior

The passenger compartment also benefits from this same philosophy which combines simplicity and efficiency. The interior houses many storage spaces installed intelligently. For example, the glove box has been relocated below the central infotainment screen, to facilitate access for the driver and passenger.

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

With the same idea, the central armrest is equipped with a sliding system, which makes it possible to vary the configurations and save space if necessary. The lower tunnel also houses a storage space for small items such as headphones, sunglasses or your keys. Another characteristic element of the passenger compartment, the large Harman Kardon soundbar placed under the windshield. Comprising 5 speakers and a subwoofer, it promises an optimal and powerful sound experience (2 speakers in the rear doors and a subwoofer in the trunk complete the audio package).

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

An avalanche of features

Despite a contained price, Volvo has not overlooked the features embedded in this EX30. Thus, we will be able to take advantage of the One Pedal Mode, OTA remote updates, a dedicated mobile application, the integration of Apple CarPlay and the Google ecosystem or even two USB-C ports for a 100W power.

Attention, some features are reserved for the Plus finishsuch as the electric tailgate, the Pilot Assist, the induction charger to wirelessly charge your devices, the parking radar or the heat pump. Ultra finish provides even more optionssuch as the panoramic glass roof, the automatic Park Assist and the 22 kW charger.

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

Three engines and two types of batteries

We now come to the different electric motors, an element that had not yet been addressed by Volvo. In order to suit all needs, the manufacturer will offer the EX30 in three engines and with two types of batteries.

EX30 Single Finish:

  • single rear electric motor with 200 kW (272 hp) and a torque of 343 Nm
  • 51 kWh LFP battery
  • 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds
  • Autonomy: up to 344 km in WLTP cycle
  • Energy consumption: 16.7kWh/100km
  • DC charging power: 135 kW
  • 11 kW AC charger

EX30 Extended Range finish:

  • single rear electric motor with 200 kW (272 hp) and a torque of 343 Nm
  • 69 kWh NMC battery
  • 0 to 100 km/h: 5.3 seconds
  • Autonomy: up to 480 km in WLTP cycle
  • Energy consumption: 15.7kWh/100km
  • DC charging power: 155 kW
  • 22 kW AC charger

EX30 Twin Performance finish:

  • Double front and rear electric motorization for a power of 315 kW (i.e. 428 hp) and a torque of 543 Nm
  • 69 kWh NMC battery
  • 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds
  • Autonomy: up to 460 km in WLTP cycle
  • Energy consumption: 16.3kWh/100km
  • DC charging speed: 155 kW

Note that from 2024, Volvo intends to decline the EX30 in a new Cross Country version. This special model will be equipped with a range of bespoke features, such as higher ground clearance and black 19-inch rims. It will benefit from exclusive design elements, such as front, rear and side skid plates or even special black panels on the front bumper. No information for the moment on the technical characteristics of this version.

Volvo EX30
Credits: Volvo

A rather attractive starting price

In view of the price, we quickly understand Volvo’s ambition: to rub shoulders with the world number one Tesla. For good reason, the EX30 is displayed at a rather surprising starting price given the service offered: €37,500.

In fact, with the ecological bonus and depending on your income, it is possible to reduce the bill to 32,500 or 30,500 euros. What makes the Volvo EX30 an attractive proposition in the electric SUV market. Subsequently, the price list goes from 40,450 to 47,950 € depending on the different finishes. Regarding availability, orders are already open in France. However, we will have to wait until early 2024 for the first deliveries.

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