When we first drove the EX30 late last year, we loved the exterior and interior design, how it drove, and how generally affordable it was when compared to the opposition. However, there was no getting away from the questionable interior ergonomics and tight rear space.
Well, now we’ve had the chance to try the EX30, in our favoured Single Motor Extended Range version in the UK – has our view changed at all?
Outside, the EX30 in our opinion, is probably Volvo’s best-looking car currently on sale – immediately dating the manufacturer’s other most popular models, such as the XC40, EX40, and XC60. It still shouts Volvo, despite no longer having key design cues such as the family grille. It does this with sharp detailing, and its attractive, sleek shape – with short overhangs and suits our Ultra spec’s standard 20in alloy wheels.
Interior compromise
We still love the clean, airy feel of the EX30’s interior design. However, living with this Volvo has highlighted the compromises needed to achieve this look. Removing most of this Volvo’s physical buttons and placing those functions in the compact 12.3in touchscreen, in our opinion, is distracting for the driver. We’re sure this would be less intrusive the more time you spend with the EX30, and become more familiar with the infotainment. However, we found that because many of the features we’d need for daily driving are hidden in the screen, too much attention is taken up on the move looking at the screen – which can’t be good for a company with safety at its core. There is a lot going on in a relatively modest screen – although there is thankfully a fixed menu for items at the bottom. We know it might have spoiled the clean look, but maybe another smaller screen could have been added in front of the driver.
Elsewhere, once you get used to where they are, having switchgear like the door locks on the floating centre console and the warning lights in a front roof pod is fine. There are also neat design touches such as the central glove box, and the impressively potent Bose soundbar sound system.
There are many interior design themes, featuring recycled materials, some on the international launch looked questionable. However, our test car’s ‘Denim’ finish was more subtle and attractive. In fact, the biggest interior issue, apart from the infotainment, is the interior space – or lack of it! Space is good in the front, but adults and children will be uncomfortable in the back – especially when compared to the roomier sister car, the Smart #1. The boot is a bit on the small side too, at 318 litres.
Motoring on
Rear-drive Single Motor Extended Range versions have a 69kWh battery, equalling 272hp, 343Nm and 0-62mph acceleration in 5.3 seconds. So, the EX30 feels fast from the off, with the top speed limited to 112mph. Yet, despite all this performance, this Single Extended Range version has a claimed 296-mile range. This was closer to 250 miles, considering the cool spring weather when we had the car. When it comes to charging, all EX30s can take AC and DC, with the Extended Range capable of charging from 10-80% at 153kW in just 28 minutes.
Despite the standard 20in wheels, the ride is only a bit harsh and unsettled around town. The EX30 impressed us with its refinement and excellent body control, which equalled tidy handling. There is also the security of all the expected Volvo safety kit, and despite having the chance to spend another week with the 400hp twin motor version, this would still be our pick of the range.
Regardless of the highlighted issues, £42,045 for this Volvo EX30 still seems good value – if you can live with its faults.
Positive: Affordable, attractive exterior and interior styling, great to drive, comfortable and refined ride.
Negative: Ergonomic issues annoy, rear space is tight, boot could be bigger
Standard equipment: 18in alloy wheels, 12.3in touchscreen, LED headlights, power tailgate, dual tone roof and wing mirrors.
| Model | Volvo EX30 Extended Range Ultra 69kWh |
| P11D | £41,990 |
| Residual value | 46.6% |
| Depreciation | £21,590 |
| Fuel | £3,845 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | £1,761 |
| Cost per mile | 45.32p |
| Range | 296 miles |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 0g/km (2%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £14/£28 |
| Luggage capacity | 318 litres |
| Battery size/power | 69kWh/272hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
