Volvo EX30 review, first drive: Swedish brand's best bet in EV space

Volvo Cars India does not have an expansive product line-up, and unlike German rivals, its strategy has been to focus on select models to drive the volumes. If we look at the present scenario, it is offering only SUVs -- EX40 electric, EC40 electric, XC60 mild hybrid and XC90 mild hybrid. Each one brings a touch of Swedish design and safety.

The company is now preparing to expand its electric vehicle (EV) range with the EX30, which will be its most affordable electric SUV in India. I had the chance to drive the car, albeit briefly, and here is an account of how it performed.

Volvo EX30: Design

The EX30 looks simple yet striking. To me, it is the best-looking Volvo SUV in India so far. At the front, it gets the familiar Thor's Hammer LED headlights. The side view is compact, sitting on 19-inch aero alloys. The rear gets connected LED taillamps, which add a premium touch.

On the outside, it does not appear very big. But step inside and you notice how smartly Volvo has managed space. The rear seat is good for two adults, though a third person in the middle will feel a shortage of shoulder room and legroom. The cabin has several storage spots - big door bins, a rear phone slot, and even a removable storage box. A 318-litre boot is optimal for your weekend getaways, and in case you need more space, the second row can be folded to free up 904 litres of luggage space. Practicality is further supported by a 7-litre frunk at the front.

Volvo has also paid attention to sustainability. Around 17% of steel and plastic, 25% of aluminium, and 30% of bumper and under-surface parts are made from recycled material. The cabin uses recycled textiles and wool blends. Volvo claims the EX30 has 25% lower CO₂ emissions than the EC40 and the EX40 over its lifecycle. A QR code inside the cabin shows details about the battery's material sourcing, carbon footprint and end-of-life management.

Volvo EX30: Performance

The India-spec EX30 uses a single-motor rear-wheel-drive configuration. The 272hp/343Nm motor is capable of pushing the electric SUV to 100kmph from a standstill in just 5.3 seconds. The top speed is claimed to be 180kmph. I did not test the acceleration and top speed figures due to traffic and speed limitations, but the EX30 felt quick and responsive in the short drive.

Moneycontrol urges all car occupants to always wear seatbelts and the drivers to drive within speed limits for a safe journey.

Coming back to the EX30, a 69kWh battery powers the SUV. Volvo claims a WLTP range of 480km. However, after my drive, I can say that the EX30 is capable of a real-world range of 400-425km on a single full charge in Indian conditions. Charging is flexible. While an 11kW AC charger can top up overnight, a 150kW DC fast charger takes the battery from 10% to 80% in about half an hour.

The combination of compact size and strong motor output makes the EX30 fun to drive. It feels light, quick and well-suited for city use, while also having enough range for highway runs.

Volvo EX30: Features

Most controls are managed through a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, which also serves as the driver display unit. It shows navigation, speed, range and all other functions. Although it takes a little time to get used to, the screen is bright and easy to use. Sound is another highlight and something that will leave you thoroughly impressed. The EX30 comes with a Harman Kardon system with nine speakers and 1,040W output. The clarity and depth are excellent.

Other useful touches include neatly designed door handles, a single knob for front seat adjustments, and multiple ambient lighting themes. Upholstery options include recycled wool blends and Nordico material. Volvo is offering a debit/credit card-sized key card for unlocking and starting the EX30. Even a smartphone can be used to create a digital key for the vehicle.

On the safety side, Volvo has loaded the car with technology. There are five radars, five cameras and 16 ultrasonic sensors. Features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping aid, blind spot monitoring, traffic jam assist, 360-degree parking camera and auto emergency braking. Inside the cabin, the car monitors driver alertness and even senses occupants. Volvo's Safe Space package also includes airbags all around, whiplash protection, and post-impact braking.

Volvo EX30: Price Expectation and Rivals

Within Volvo's portfolio, the EC40 is priced at Rs 59 lakh, and the EX40 at Rs 50.10 lakh. Going by this, the EX30 should sit below the EX40, likely in the Rs 45-50 lakh range. Pricing will be key, since Indian buyers are still sensitive to value, even in the premium space.

The Volvo EX30 will take on the BMW iX1 LWB, which starts at Rs 49.90 lakh. Another rival will be the Hyundai Ioniq 5, a popular mass-market EV available for Rs 46.30 lakh. The BYD Sealion 7, launched at Rs 48.90 lakh, will also add pressure. For reference, all the prices are ex-showroom.

While pre-reservations for the electric SUV have started, the EX30 price will be announced by the end of September. Its customer deliveries will begin in October.

Volvo EX30: Verdict

The Volvo EX30 combines elegant Scandinavian design, good use of space, strong performance and a focus on sustainability. It is powerful, well-equipped and practical, without being oversized. The cabin is cleverly packaged with thoughtful storage and materials, while the technology is both advanced and easy to engage with. Safety features and ADAS tech are among the best in class.

For Volvo, the EX30 could become a big volume driver in India. But its success will depend on pricing. If Volvo manages to launch it in the Rs 45-50 lakh range, the EX30 has the potential to appeal to both luxury EV buyers and those upgrading from mass-market EVs.