Kumbi-M on Cars

Quick Facts:

• Twin electric motors

• 315 kW/543 Nm 
• 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds
• 69 kWh battery 
• 450Km range
• Priced at R1 055 900

By Blessing Mtshakazi

Exterior: Minimalist Elegance

The Volvo EX30 is a masterclass in modern design. Its Vapor Grey finish exudes sophistication, while the 20-inch Aero alloy wheels add a sporty flair. Up front, Volvo's iconic Thor’s Hammer LED lighting gets a pixelated look, giving the EX30 a futuristic and distinct appearance. The closed-off grille, a hallmark of EVs, blends seamlessly with the car’s elegant lines. At the rear, signature taillights, a subtle boot spoiler, and bold EX30 badging complete the striking aesthetic.

Every angle of the EX30 has been meticulously crafted, making it one of the most talked-about EVs in terms of design. It looks like a car from a different planet and sticks out like a sore thumb at your local grocery store parking lot.

Interior:

Step inside, and you’re greeted by an eco-friendly yet luxurious cabin. Volvo has embraced sustainability, incorporating materials like Nordico upholstery and recycled textiles in the Indigo interior, ensuring both comfort and responsibility. The panoramic glass sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, while the ambient lighting creates a serene atmosphere.

Functionality takes center stage with clever storage solutions, including a central armrest with cupholders and a wireless charging pad. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen is your command center, offering seamless control of all vehicle functions, from climate settings to seat adjustments. However, the absence of physical buttons might require some getting used to for traditionalists. This infotainment screen houses almost every car function you can think of.

For audiophiles, the Harman Kardon sound bar ensures an immersive audio experience, and even rear passengers are treated to thoughtful touches like unique door handles and convenient charging ports.

Safety and Technology

Safety has always been a Volvo hallmark, and the EX30 continues this legacy with features like:

• 360-degree cameras.
• Park Pilot Assist.
• Advanced blind spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist systems that are intuitive and non-intrusive.
• Safe Space Technology, which includes radar sensors to alert you about potential collisions, even when opening doors.

Volvo’s commitment to passenger, pedestrian, and environmental safety is evident in every detail.

Performance: 

Under the hood—or rather, beneath the floor—is where the EX30 truly shines. The Twin Motor develops 315 kW of power and A jaw-dropping 543 Nm of torque. This pocket rocket can do a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.6 seconds, rivaling many of your favourite performance cars.

Despite its blistering acceleration, the EX30 retains a comfortable ride, with its adaptive suspension soaking up road imperfections. The precise steering and instant torque make it a joy to drive, whether navigating city streets or taking on twisty roads.

The 69 kWh battery offers a range of up to 450 km, and fast charging takes the battery from 20% to 80% in just 30-40 minutes. While Volvo has opted for a minimalist key system that automatically locks and unlocks based on proximity, some users might find the locking range a bit too wide for comfort in urban settings.

Practicality and Pricing

The EX30 is as practical as it is stylish. The 318-liter boot space is adequate for a compact SUV, and the electric tailgate adds convenience. Volvo offers an 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty and a 5-year/100,000 km maintenance plan, ensuring peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Priced at R1,055,974 for the Ultra Twin Motor Performance variant, the EX30 positions itself as a premium, eco-conscious option. For those looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, the single-motor variant starts at R791,000.

Verdict: Is the Volvo EX30 Worth It?

Volvo has delivered a compact SUV that doesn’t compromise on luxury, performance, or sustainability. The EX30 Ultra Twin Motor Performance is a testament to Volvo’s commitment to innovation and quality, making it a strong contender in the EV market.

For a vehicle that merges cutting-edge technology, performance, luxury and eco-friendly materials, the EX30 is a winner. It ticks so many boxes and yes the minimalistic interior will take some getting used to but If this is the future of electric vehicles, then Volvo is certainly cooking—and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

It's compact in size, very bold, and might just be proof that good things do come in small packages.