REVIEW: Volvo EX30

I've made the decision to switch from Hybrid to Electric with the possibility of downsizing from my current Volvo XC60 as the kids are now older and we have a van for our camping/sporting hobbies, so I was very game to test drive the brand new Volvo EX30 for the weekend.

It was great timing for it as we had a pretty normal weekend at home so ideal for seeing if it would work for us as a family.

I'll take you through the key features and specs and how it works for a busy working Mum to two young children.

First impressions were that it was immediately unique as there is no key or even key fob - the 'key' looks like a hotel room card. You rest this on the side of the driver's door to unlock the car and then place it on the front console to start the car.

Interior is slick and minimilist; there is just a tablet and steering wheel. In fact it's so simple I had to ask how to drive it as there are no visible controls. You put the car in to drive and reverse using what would have been the windscreen wipers on a traditional car so it seems a bit alien to start with but I was used to it after a few minutes and it makes driving the car very easy indeed.

We used the car for a typical family weekend and our first stop on Saturday was the girls' dancing lessons in Parkstone where it's fairly tight on street parking only and it was a bonus to be able squeeze into a small spot that would have been impossible and my XC60.  There are 360 cameras so you can see every angle when you are maneuvering so there's no excuse not to get it to those tight spots!

We benefited from this again while popping to Patisserie Mark Bennet in Ashley Cross for Saturday treats; I managed to park right outside.

I was worried the boot space wouldn't be ample but I then went to the Supermarket for the weekly shop and all of the bags easily fit in the boot space which is obviously smaller than the XC60 but ample now I don't have the need for the kids buggies.

On Sunday we drove to Worth Matravers for our favourite Family walk; a 3.5 mile circular route from the gravelly Renscome Car Park to Champans Pool and up the xx steps to St Aldhelm's Chapel and back. The car handled the gravel really well and the vehicle's handling feels super slick and responsive.

The final trip was to Bournemouth for a Monday morning meeting and once again I benefited from being able to park in to a tight spot in the City Centre then back to the Volvo Poole dealership where the staff are always extremely helpful and friendly.

There was one feature that massively put me off wanting to switch to the EX30 - the card key system which meant you could only open the car or boot but resting the car on the driver door made it a huge pain with the kids and all of our bags, it seemed pointless having the auto open feature of the boot if you had to go round and unlock it that way as it just doesn't help when you have your hands full. However, I was pleased to hear from the dealership that you can request another key which is smaller, lighter and allows you to open the car and the boot by a normal fob/remove key - this would be a must for me.

Features and specifications of the Volvo EX30

The infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, with seamless smartphone integration, it's all very user friendly and I particularly liked how you would enter post codes/directions just as you would on your phone or tablet.

The sound system is high-quality, and the cabin is meticulously designed, using only recycled materials (recycled denim jeans and plastic bottles!) and attention to detail that exudes simplicity and refinement. 

Features and specifications of the Volvo EX30

Under the hood, the EX30 is equipped with a powerful engine that delivers ample power and torque, making it a joy to drive in both urban and off-road settings (we took the car to Chapman's Pool and parked in the gravel car park and the car handled just as well here as it did on the roads).

With advanced features like all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and precise steering, the EX30 offers a dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Performance and handling of the Volvo EX30

When it comes to performance and handling, the Volvo EX30 truly shines. Thanks to its powerful engine and advanced drivetrain technology, this compact SUV delivers a smooth and responsive ride. The all-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, allowing you to confidently tackle challenging road conditions as proved in the gravel car park. The EX30's adaptive suspension further enhances its handling, effortlessly absorbing bumps and ensuring a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers.

One of the standout features of the Volvo EX30 is its precise steering. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback and allowing for precise maneuvering. Whether you're navigating tight city streets or cruising along the open road, the EX30's steering instills confidence and makes every drive a pleasure. With its impressive performance and agile handling, the Volvo EX30 is a true testament to the brand's commitment to precision and driving pleasure.

Safety features of the Volvo EX30

Volvo has long been at the forefront of automotive safety, and the EX30 is no exception. This compact SUV is packed with a wide range of advanced safety features that provide peace of mind for both the driver and passengers. The EX30 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These technologies work together to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. I found the speed alert really useful particularly along the Wareham Road as the car is really punchy I did feel myself edging over 30 a few times so it was great to have the alert.

In addition to its active safety features, the Volvo EX30 also prioritizes passive safety. The vehicle's robust construction and advanced airbag system provide excellent protection in the event of a collision. Volvo's commitment to safety is further exemplified by its dedication to pedestrian and cyclist safety. The EX30 is equipped with innovative technologies such as pedestrian detection and cyclist detection, which help to avoid accidents and protect vulnerable road users. With its comprehensive safety features, the Volvo EX30 sets a high bar for safety in its class.

Volvo EX30 pricing and options

When it comes to pricing and options, the Volvo EX30 offers a range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. The Poole Volvo dealerships provide comprehensive pricing information and personalised assistance to help you find the perfect EX30 for your needs. The base model of the EX30 offers a generous list of standard features, including advanced safety technologies, premium interior materials, and a powerful engine. For those seeking additional luxury and convenience, Volvo offers a range of optional packages and accessories that allow you to customize your EX30 to your liking.

It's worth noting that while the Volvo EX30 may have a higher initial cost compared to some of its competitors, its exceptional build quality, advanced safety features, and long-term reliability make it a sound investment. When you choose the EX30, you're not only getting a stylish and powerful SUV, but also the peace of mind that comes with owning a Volvo.

Conclusion: Is the Volvo EX30 the right choice?

After having my concerns about the key allayed it is definitely a possible contender for our switch to an all-electric car! After a weekend with the EX30 exploring its features, performance, safety, and comfort, I can confidently say that it is a compelling. The EX30 combines power, precision, and elegance in a compact SUV that is as enjoyable to drive as it is practical for everyday use. With its advanced safety features, luxurious interior, and strong reputation for reliability, the EX30 offers a well-rounded package that is hard to resist.

To find out more please call Volvo Cars Poole on 01202 065555 or complete the form HERE!