The Volvo EX30 Is An Affordable Family Car Like No Other
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11 hours ago
Scandi cool
Motoring editor Jeremy Taylor and Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby drive Volvo’s sustainable superstar, the all-electric EX30.
Long Term Test: Volvo EX30
Part 1: 25 July 2025
JT-P — Wow! That’s a funky shade of paint. Looks like a colour you might see on a Lamborghini.
JT — Yes, I chose it myself. Moss Yellow is a no-cost option and I rather like the look. In fact, it’s not the only thing this Volvo has in common with a Lambo.
Do confess.
Well, our test car is the Twin Motor Performance Plus. It boasts all-wheel drive and sprints from 0-62mph in a Lambo-like 3.6 seconds.
That’s quick.
Especially for a family car costing just a shade over £42,000. Like all Volvos nowadays, the EX30 is restricted to a top speed of 112mph, but it might surprise a Porsche owner at the traffic lights.
Presumably there are less powerful, more affordable versions too?
The EX30 range starts at around £33,000 for the single motor model, which has plenty of standard equipment as well. Heated seats and steering wheel, Harman Karman sound system and a 12.3-inch touchscreen among them.
This Volvo looks refreshingly different to most small hatchbacks on the road at the moment. I really like the chunky stance, neat headlights and contrasting black roof.
This is a car that looks more expensive than it actually is. I love the door handles in particular: they are easy to use and gimmick-free. It’s the same inside too, with lots of clever storage spaces helped by the lack of a transmission tunnel.
Best of all, the EX30 utilises lots of recycled materials, like fishing nets, waste from jeans factories and disposable plastic water bottles. Many companies suggest they are ‘doing their bit’ for sustainability, but Volvo has the stats to back it up.
There are plenty of stylish touches worthy of more expensive cars, like the interior door handles cut from metal, ‘floating’ arm rests and quality feel trim.
Yes, but overall it’s the minimalistic design in the cabin that impresses most. Totally clutter-free, with no buttons or dials. Pretty much everything is operated from the central touchscreen.
That does mean you have to spend a little time exploring the workings of the car first, but it’s not too complicated.
Perhaps the only downside of the EX30 Dual Motor is the battery range. Volvo claim 279 miles, but 220 is more realistic. If you want more, choose a different model in the line-up.
And remember, other colours are available too!
Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby is Director of Programmes at London College of Fashion, studying for a PhD in sustainable e-textile design.
