Car manufacturers often claim that electric vehicles (EVs) are the future, but their actions don’t always match their words. Many seem more focused on promoting high-tech features and performance rather than making EVs affordable for everyday people. However, a shift is on the horizon from an unexpected player: Volvo.
Traditionally known for its focus on safety and sensible design, Volvo isn’t typically associated with affordability. But the forthcoming 2025 Volvo EX30 is set to challenge that notion by offering a competitively priced EV. Starting at $36,245 for the base Single Motor Extended Range Core model, the EX30 is more affordable than EVs from brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Volkswagen. Even the top-tier Twin Motor Performance Ultra variant, priced at $47,895, is comparatively inexpensive given the lofty prices of many EVs with all the bells and whistles.
If the EX30 can live up to its promise, it could be a game changer when it hits U.S. dealerships next summer. However, for it to truly stand out, the EX30 needs to be more than just budget-friendly—it has to be a solid, dependable car.
The EX30 features a sleek, updated look consistent with Volvo’s minimalist design. Its grille-less front and pixelated lighting elements make it look fresh and modern. Despite its SUV-like tall hood and upright roofline, the EX30 is more compact than many of its competitors. It’s significantly shorter than the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4, yet it maintains comparable headroom to these models and offers better front-seat headroom than the Hyundai. However, this compact size impacts rear legroom and cargo space. With the rear seats up, the EX30 provides 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space, less than a Nissan Leaf hatchback. Folding the second row expands this to 31.9 cubic feet, similar to what the VW ID.4 offers with its rear seats in place. There is a front trunk, but it’s primarily useful for storing the charging cable.
Inside, the EX30 blends minimalist design with practical cost-saving measures. It lacks an instrument cluster, with the speedometer relocated to the central touchscreen. The audio system uses a sound-bar design, and window switches are placed on the center console rather than the doors. These minimalist choices likely help keep the price down. Unique touches include metal door pull rings and the use of recycled materials like Particle Deco, a spackled material made from recycled window frames.
The car comes standard with a 12.3-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running an Android-based infotainment system that includes Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. Wireless Apple CarPlay is also available. The touchscreen packs a lot of information, including the speed readout and Google Maps, with climate controls, audio, and vehicle settings accessible from control bars at the bottom. While operating functions through the touchscreen is mostly smooth, the interface does require some getting used to, especially for tasks like adjusting the temperature or mirrors.
Safety and driver-assist features are solid, if not cutting-edge. Standard features include blind spot monitoring, collision mitigation, a driver attention monitor, and a door-alert system. The top Ultra trim adds Volvo’s Pilot Assist system, lane change assist, a 360-degree camera, and park-assist capabilities.
The EX30 offers two powertrain options: the rear-wheel-drive Single Motor Extended Range with 268 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque, and the all-wheel-drive Twin Motor Performance with 422 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Both feature a 69-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with useable capacity listed as 64 kWh. Volvo claims the Twin Motor Performance can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, faster than some high-end performance cars and even quicker than the Tesla Model Y Performance. The base model can reach 60 mph in a respectable 5.1 seconds.
Driving the EX30 is a refined experience, similar to more expensive Volvo models. The car offers a comfortable, quiet ride without being overly soft and floaty. One-pedal driving, using regenerative braking, is available, making it easy to drive without touching the brake pedal much, though this feature can be turned off for those who prefer a more traditional driving feel.
Volvo estimates the EX30’s range at 275 miles for the single-motor version and 265 miles for the dual-motor version. This is higher than the base ranges for the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4, and all at a lower price point. The EX30 can also fast charge at 153 kilowatts, which Volvo says will take the battery from 10% to 80% in about 26.5 minutes. Yet, it doesn’t match the high-power charging capability of some competitors like the Ioniq 5.
While crash-test ratings and specific warranty details will come closer to the launch date, the EX30 is expected to follow Volvo’s standard four-year, 50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranties and an eight-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty.
Of the two models, the Single Motor Extended Range appears most compelling, offering 275 miles of range and a more agile driving experience. To access all available driver-assist features, you’ll need to upgrade from the base Core trim to the Ultra trim, which starts at $41,895.
Even fully loaded, the EX30 holds its own against other small electric SUVs, offering more range at a lower price, along with Volvo’s signature style and driving feel. However, its limited cargo space and unusual interior design may deter some buyers. Furthermore, since the EX30 will be built in China (and later in Belgium starting in 2025), it won’t qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit available for U.S.-assembled EVs like the Model Y and ID.4, which could narrow the price advantage.
Still, the EX30 impresses with its combination of low base price, good range, and high feature content, challenging expectations for mainstream EVs and potentially resetting the market’s benchmarks.