• Auto123 reviews the 2025 Volvo EX30.
The 2025 Volvo EX30 arrived in 2024 as a significant pivot for the Swedish manufacturer, representing the smallest, fastest and most powerful SUV in the brand's history. Aimed at the premium compact segment, this vehicle measures 4,233 mm in length and 1,837 mm in width, sitting on a 2,650 mm wheelbase. While its dimensions are modest, expectations are not: Volvo’s goal with this model was to double its global electric vehicle sales.
As an entirely new addition to the lineup, the EX30 introduces a fresh entry point for Volvo’s electrification strategy. Manufactured at the Ghent plant in Belgium, it features two distinct powertrain configurations and a focus on sustainability. The SUV integrates a new generation of Park Pilot Assist and Pilot Assist with lane-change capabilities. It also marks a departure in interior philosophy, moving almost all vehicle controls to a singular central interface.
Design of the 2025 Volvo EX30 – 8,0/10
The exterior of the EX30 draws heavily from its larger sibling, the EX90. It features a closed bumper grille and the signature Thor’s hammer LED headlamps. The profile is defined by a rising beltline and a thick C-pillar, which creates a floating roof effect. Short overhangs and sturdy wheel arches contribute to a sporty stance.
Functional details include split taillights and an aerodynamic hood that plunges toward the front.
Inside
The cabin follows a minimalist Scandinavian approach, characterized by a lack of a traditional center console. Instead, a large storage area extends across the dashboard. To increase door storage, Volvo removed traditional speakers from the front doors, replacing them with a Harman Kardon soundbar located beneath the windshield. The gear selector is positioned behind the steering wheel to further declutter the space.
Materials play a central role: 25 percent of the interior plastics are recycled. While the fittings are meticulous, some surfaces consist of hard plastics. Storage solutions are varied, including a sliding center armrest and hidden compartments under the rear seats.
Buyers can choose from five ambient lighting themes, each paired with a specific sound ambience.
Visibility is aided by large windows, though the lack of interior grab handles can be annoying when boarding. While the front seats are spacious, the rear middle seat is best suited for shorter trips.
Cargo capacity is limited to 318 litres in the rear trunk, though an adaptable floor and a 7-litre front “frunk” for charging cables provide additional utility.
Technology in the 2025 Volvo EX30 – 7.0/10
The EX30 features a 12.3-inch vertical touchscreen that houses almost every vehicle function, from climate control to the glovebox release. Whether that is always an advantage or not is debatable.
Thie Google-based system runs on a 5G network and includes Google Maps, Spotify and YouTube via the Google Play Store. Wireless Apple CarPlay is also supported.
Safety technology includes an exit warning system to alert occupants to approaching cyclists and an automatic braking function for intersections. However, the reliance on a single screen for all data — including the odometer — makes for ergonomic complexity. Turning on the rear defrost requires multiple taps, for example. And that means there are times your eyes will be forced off the road in front and onto the screen for what we consider too long a time.
Software updates are delivered over-the-air, and a digital key is compatible with various smartphones.
Powertrains of the 2025 Volvo EX30 – 7.0/10
Canadian consumers can choose between two mechanical setups, both using a 69-kWh battery (64 kWh usable).
Single Motor Extended Range: This rear-wheel-drive configuration produces 268 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque. It offers an estimated EPA range of up to 442 km.
Twin Motor Performance: This all-wheel-drive variant adds a front motor, bringing total output to 422 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. It is Volvo’s fastest-accelerating vehicle, capable of reaching 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, with an estimated range of 422 km.
DC fast charging is supported at rates up to 153 kW. Under ideal conditions, a charge from 10 to 80 percent takes approximately 27 minutes. The system includes a heat pump and battery pre-conditioning to assist with charging in colder climates.
2025 Volvo EX30 - Versions and pricing for Canada
The 2025 EX30 is available in several trim levels across the two powertrains. All listed prices are MSRP, without counting the $3,512 transport and prep fees.
- - 2025 EX30 Single motor RWD – Base - $53,700 CAD
- - 2025 EX30 Single motor RWD – Core - $56,900
- - 2025 EX30 Single motor RWD – Ultra - $59,100
- - 2025 EX30 Twin motor AWD – Core - $59,900
- - 2025 EX30 Twin motor AWD – Ultra - $62,100
While competitive for the luxury segment, it is worth noting that the Canadian starting price is significantly higher than the $34,700 USD price point found in the U.S., even after accounting for exchange rates. On the other hand, the EX30 currently qualifies for the full $5,000 federal EV incentive and provincial EV subsidies if you’re in B.C. or Quebec.
Driving the 2025 Volvo EX30
The EX30’s driving dynamics, in its twin-motor version, offers sports-car levels of acceleration in Performance mode. At 1,830 kg, the vehicle lacks the heavy sensation typical of many EVs, resulting in an agile feel in urban settings. The suspension is firm and the regenerative braking is powerful and predictable, though users are cautioned to adjust those settings in snowy conditions.
Winter conditions also brought home to us the question of the utility of offering a Volvo with 2WD. In the case of the EX30, the Twin Motor Performance version offers better grip and added peace of mind when you head off the highway on your way to the cottage, for just $3,000 more.
News flash (well not really): In real-world Canadian winter conditions, range will decrease, probably significantly; in our week of driving in cold weather the car gave us an actual range of roughly 340 km compared to the 442 km estimate.
The final word
The 2025 Volvo EX30 is a distinctive entry into the compact electric SUV market, offering high performance and unique Scandinavian design at a price point that qualifies for maximum government rebates. While it succeeds in delivering a lively driving experience and clever storage solutions, its heavy reliance on a singular touchscreen for basic functions presents a steep learning curve.
For Canadian buyers, the Twin Motor version appears to be the more pragmatic choice for a nominal price increase, providing the all-wheel-drive security necessary for local winters.
Some of your questions about the 2025 Volvo EX30
Is the EX30 large enough for a small family?
Despite its compact size, the EX30 offers an interior space that can accommodate four adults. The absence of a central floor tunnel in the back frees up legroom for rear passengers. Higher up, though, rear headroom may be tight for taller individuals. Driver and front navigator won’t notice that, since space in front is generous, even for larger occupants.
Is there enough storage in the EX30?
The EX30 is packed with well-thought-out storage solutions. The centre console features several compartments, including a large storage bin under the armrest and retractable cupholders. The front doors can accommodate water bottles, and there is additional storage space located under the rear seats. The trunk, with a capacity of 318 litres, can be expanded to 904 litres by folding down the rear seats. A small 7-litre “frunk” (front trunk) also provides a spot to store charging cables.
Competitors of the 2025 Volvo EX30
- • Audi Q4 e-tron
- • Cadillac Lyriq
- • Genesis GV60
- • Tesla Model Y