The electric vehicle (EV) market is buzzing, but affordability remains a key barrier for many. While automakers have focused on performance and tech, Volvo is taking a different approach with the 2025 EX30. This compact electric SUV undercuts competitors like Hyundai, Kia, and Volkswagen on price without sacrificing range, features, or style. Starting at just $36,245 for the base Single Motor Extended Range Core model, and topping out at $47,895 for the fully loaded Twin Motor Performance Ultra, the EX30 positions itself as a potential game changer when it arrives in U.S. dealerships next summer. But is it more than just a cheaper Volvo?
Exterior and Interior Design
Exterior view of the 2025 Volvo EX30.
The EX30 embodies Volvo’s signature minimalist aesthetic. The grille-less front fascia and pixelated lighting elements, shared with the upcoming EX90, create a fresh and modern look. The tall hood and upright roofline provide a hint of SUV presence, further emphasized by the forthcoming Cross Country variant. However, its compact dimensions and low overall height lend a car-like feel, resulting in a distinctive yet hard-to-categorize design.
Significantly smaller than competitors like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4, the EX30 is surprisingly spacious inside. Headroom in both rows is comparable to its rivals, even exceeding the Hyundai in the front. Legroom in the front is also competitive, but the rear is noticeably tighter due to the EX30’s smaller footprint.
Interior of the 2025 Volvo EX30.
Cargo space reflects the EX30’s compact size. While classified as an SUV, its 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats is less than that of a Nissan Leaf hatchback. Folding the second row increases capacity to 31.9 cubic feet, roughly equivalent to the VW ID.4’s cargo space with its rear seats up. The included frunk is primarily designed for storing the charging cable.
The interior balances minimalist design with cost-effective solutions. The absence of a traditional instrument cluster, with speed displayed on the central touchscreen, and the sound-bar-style audio system contribute to the clean aesthetic. Relocating window switches to the center console is another cost-saving measure. Unique touches include integrated metal door pull rings and optional recycled materials like Particle Deco, a composite made from recycled window frames.
Technology, Infotainment, and Driver-Assist Features
The 2025 Volvo EX30
The EX30 features a standard 12.3-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen with an Android-based infotainment system. Google Built-in provides access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. Wireless Apple CarPlay is also standard.
The touchscreen consolidates a wealth of information. The top bar displays speed and other essential driving data. Google Maps occupies the central area, while climate controls, audio settings, and vehicle settings are accessible via control bars at the bottom.
While generally smooth, the interface requires a steeper learning curve than some competitors. Adjusting settings like mirror positions through the touchscreen menu can be less intuitive than dedicated physical controls.
While reserving its most advanced driver-assist technologies for higher-end models like the EX90, the EX30 offers a solid suite of safety features. Standard across all trims are blind spot monitoring, front and rear collision mitigation, a driver attention monitor, and a door-opening alert system. The top-tier Ultra trim adds Pilot Assist, lane change assist, a 360-degree camera system, and park assist.
Driving Performance and Experience
Particle Deco interior trim in the 2025 Volvo EX30.
The EX30 offers two powertrain options: a rear-wheel-drive Single Motor Extended Range with 268 horsepower and an all-wheel-drive Twin Motor Performance with 422 horsepower. Both utilize a 69-kWh battery pack (64 kWh usable). Volvo claims the Twin Motor Performance can achieve 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.4 seconds in Performance AWD mode, rivaling performance SUVs. Even the base single-motor variant offers respectable acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
Despite its impressive acceleration, the EX30 maintains Volvo’s characteristic refined driving experience. It prioritizes comfort and quietness over sporty handling, providing a solid and composed ride. True one-pedal driving is available, allowing drivers to rely primarily on regenerative braking.
Range, Charging, and Warranty
Close-up of headlight and front fender of 2025 Volvo EX30.
Volvo estimates a range of 275 miles for single-motor models and 265 miles for dual-motor models. This surpasses the current range of similarly priced competitors. DC fast charging at 153 kW enables a 10% to 80% charge in approximately 26.5 minutes.
The EX30 carries the same warranty as other Volvo EVs: a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, a four-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty, and an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.
The Optimal Configuration
Rear three quarter view of the 2025 Volvo EX30.
While the Twin Motor Performance’s acceleration is impressive, the Single Motor Extended Range variant arguably offers the best value. It provides ample range and a more engaging driving experience due to its lighter front end. Opting for the Ultra trim level over the base Core trim adds the full suite of driver-assist features.
Despite being built in China (and Belgium starting in 2025), which makes it ineligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit available to U.S.-assembled EVs, the EX30 remains a compelling option. Its combination of low price, impressive range, and comprehensive features positions it as a potential disruptor in the EV market, setting a new standard for value in the electric SUV segment.
