We drive the EX30 and get smitten just like everyone else
There is a brand new compact Volvo coming to showrooms this September 2024 and it is called the EX30. It is smaller than the Volvo XC40 and much quicker. In fact, it is the fastest Volvo product ever. It is even faster than the BTCC podium sitting Volvo 850 T-5R and even faster than the impressive Volvo S90 Polestar.
It looks like Volvo product designers had to fill out a list of requirements that buyers in this segment wanted and they ticked all the boxes.
Yes, this is an electric crossover that is also a super hot hatch as it is too fast to be put anywhere else but in the ‘super hatch’ segment. A possible 3.6 seconds acceleration time from rest to 100km/h is somewhat insane but its perfectly sane for the segment buyer.
Before the review, let’s look at the proposed buyer demographic in Malaysia. They will probably be generally young to middle age, well educated, fashionable and somewhat in need to be 1st to the line with technology and fashion trends.
Well that is what the public relations people will tell you. Now we will tell you who the real EX30 buyer is. Just about anyone with RM199k (this is our guesstimate selling price) to spend! Yes, this car does not carry a specific buyer profile for Malaysia.
In fact, we believe that both male, female and also ‘other’ buyers will be drawn to this new Volvo crossover due to its ‘cutesy’ looks. Middle class buyers will like it as a 2nd car. The rich buyer will like to have this EX30 in their garage as a 3rd or 4th ride or maybe even a car for their 17th year old teenager just about to start college.
This new Volvo comes with an infotainment and multimedia center that sets new standards in the compact segment with electronics borrowed from its bigger brother, the EX90.
The EX30 Rivals
Our guesstimate RM199k or so possible asking price is within reach for many and it is lower priced than the immediate competition, like the smart#1 Brabus variant which does the rest to 100km/h acceleration in 3.9 seconds and cost RM249k and is somewhat higher priced than the MG4 LUX which does the rest to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds and is priced at just RM158k.
The EX30 Drive
One of the best traits of this EX30 is its drive attitude that comes from its high levels of grip and strong brakes that inspire the kind of confidence that lets you probe further than your drive instinct would normally allow. This is a very well-balanced small car with quite a tenacious grip and eager performance. The 0-100km/h sprint is done in just 3.6 seconds with surefooted handling before the driver misses a heartbeat.
At speeds, turn-in is sharp and it points where it’s intended, however it is easily shaken off-line on pot-holed corners and uneven surfaces with its firm suspension and tight chassis. It can be precisely-placed when cornering quickly on well paved roads only and, even with some induced slide feels controlled and very well-balanced. And the result? Pure driving enjoyment. This is all what makes this Volvo the next best thing for the pure fun driving.
The extended range variant gives you a possible driving range of up to 480km between charges.
Finally, if performance is your priority, pick the Twin Motor Performance variant in which Volvo engineers pair the NMC battery with an additional second e-motor and this delivers 428hp.
The EX30 Battery Charging
Another thing the EX30 does fast is charging. The extended-range Twin Motor variant has a charging capacity of up to 153kW, while the standard-range car has a capacity of 134kW. That means you can charge your battery from 10 to 80 per cent in a little over 25 minutes. Through the car’s center display and app, you can set the amperage, maximum charging level and when you want to start charging.
The EX30 Cabin
The EX30 cabin delivers a unique cutting-edge tech and considerate Scandinavian interior design. You have smart storage options throughout the cabin and a glove-box that sits in the center (between the driver and front passenger).
Together with a contextual single-screen UX, with Google built-in and running the latest version of our infotainment system, these features all reflect the hallmarks of true Volvo design.
This EX30 is the first Volvo to include a new generation of their popular Park Pilot Assist feature. It can handle all types of parking spaces, including parallel, curved, perpendicular and diagonal fishbone-style, making parking in tight spaces a breeze.
The EX30 Conclusion
Yes, some might say its lacking in space. But how often do you use the available space in your current car? How often do you take trips to the airport to pick up family or friends? How often will you carry passengers in your car?
All you need is seating for 4 adults and some weekend away luggage space (or grocery space for 2 weeks’ maximum).
Take a test drive and let your emotions rule your available bank balance.
Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Pure Electric Specifications
Motors: Dual Motor (AWD)
Range: 460km (69kWh battery)
Charging Speed: 153kWh DC (10-80% in 25 minutes), 22kW AC (4.0 hours full)
Max power: 428hp
Max torque: 543Nm
Top Speed: 180 km/h
0-100 km/h: 3.6 seconds
Selling Price: TBA Soon
