Volvo EX30 first impression: small on the outside, BIG on the inside

Developed on Geely’s SEA platform, which also underpins the smart #1 and Zeekr X, the EX30 is the smallest vehicle from Volvo to date.

That being said, don’t let its compact size fool you. The EX30 encompasses everything buyers in this segment desire—style, technology, practicality, and of course, performance.

Thanks to the well-thought-out though (though slightly unusual) activities organised during a recent media test drive by Volvo Car Malaysia, we gained a clear insight into the true capabilities of the EX30 and why it stands out in the market.

But before delving into the whole experience, let’s first explore the exterior and interior of this rather interesting EV. With dimensions of 4,223 mm in length, 1,837 mm in width, and 1,555 mm in height, it is indeed smaller than both the #1 and X.

Nevertheless, the EX30 boasts well-balanced and sporty proportions, featuring equally long front and rear overhangs, a lengthy wheelbase of 2,650 mm, and large wheels to complete the look.

Even though the test units were wrapped in camouflage, it’s easy to pinpoint it as a Volvo at first glance, thanks to the prominent Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lights. Of course, the brand logo is also clearly displayed on the front of the car.

As one would expect from the Swedish marque, the interior of the EX30 is stylish and well-organised. In line with its sustainability efforts, Volvo has chosen to apply generous amounts of renewable and recyclable materials throughout nearly every nook and cranny of the cabin.

Aside from the window controls on the center console, you won’t find any physical buttons in the EX30. In fact, there’s no traditional gauge cluster in this vehicle. All functions and information—like vehicle speed and gear position—must be accessed through a 12.3-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen.

The minimalist approach effectively creates a spacious cockpit; however, those accustomed to conventional controls will take some getting used to. Even adjusting the side mirrors and opening the glovebox must now be done via the touchscreen.

While the interior of the EX30 is undeniably compact, I don’t believe most users will struggle to store their belongings. This is because Volvo has creatively maximised storage space. Firstly, instead of conventional door-mounted speakers, you’ll find a Harman Kardon soundbar covering the entire width of the dashboard to make room in the door panels.

Furthermore, the cupholders in the center console can be slid out fully. Located below this is another substantial storage area where you can place items like a wallet. Interestingly, the floor of this compartment can be opened to create a deeper space, right behind which is a removable tray.

Now, returning to the previously mentioned media test drive. From Volvo Malaysia’s headquarters in Petaling Jaya, we departed for the old airport in Sungai Besi where we did two driving activities: a drag race and a slalom run.

While slalom isn’t new to me, this time it was a bit different as we had to perform it in reverse. The bright and clear video feeds from the exterior cameras helped me avoid the cones.

Next, racing against a Volvo V60 T8 demonstrated the true potential of the EX30 on a straight line. The Twin Motor Performance variant we drove has a ‘secret’ Performance All-Wheel Drive mode that, when activated, generates a maximum power output of 428 PS and 543 Nm.

Just like that, the EX30 blasts from 0 to 100 km/h in a scant 3.6 seconds, surpassing the plug-in hybrid wagon that is actually significantly more powerful.

After the activities in Sungai Besi, we moved to Bamboo Hills for a demonstration of the Park Pilot Assist feature. The feature is incredibly user-friendly and can instantly detect available parking spaces. You simply need to select your desired spot, and the car will handle the rest for you.

Next, we headed to Ikea Damansara for a unique shopping experience. Each team, composed of six media members, was given a budget of RM2,000 to buy as many items as possible to cram into the tiny EV.

Thanks to the boot space, which can accommodate up to 904 litres (when the back seats are folded), a 61-liter compartment beneath the boot floor, and a 7-litre frunk, our team successfully packed several chairs, a futon mattress, pillows, and many other items without a snag.

It is uncustomary for car manufacturers to let motoring media run wild in a mall as part of a media drive but this activity showcased that even though the EX30 is compact, its interior is versatile enough for weekend getaways in the Klang Valley and surrounding areas.

From Kuala Lumpur, we then headed to Janda Baik as the final stop of the media drive. The journey from the capital to this popular resort was enjoyable, especially when cruising along the Karak Highway, given the EX30’s stable and solid handling.

Even after an aggressively spirited day of driving, including the drag race earlier, we arrived in Janda Baik with about 45% battery power remaining. Just imagine the range if driven more conservatively.

For your information, the Twin Motor Performance variant features a 69 kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery, promising a driving range of approximately 450 km based on the WLTP cycle.

The battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes using a 153 kW DC fast charger, while AC charging at 11 kW takes about 7.5 hours for a full charge.

Conclusion

For an electric vehicle, the Volvo EX30 offers numerous advantages. Its modern and attractive design—both exterior and interior—is eye-catching, yet never overwhelming.

While the lack of physical buttons might lead to potential buyers feeling a little hesitant, based on my experience, all functions and features can be easily accessed. It just takes a bit of time to learn how to use them.

For me, the key strengths of the EX30 lie in its performance and practicality, making it an ideal choice for young individuals with an active lifestyle.