2026 Volvo EX30 Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
The 2026 Volvo EX30 is a small, all-electric crossover that combines sleek design with cutting-edge technology. With its versatile features and impressive acceleration, the EX30 is perfect for those seeking eco-friendly luxury without compromising performance or style.
Electric luxury compact SUV rivals include the Tesla Model Y and Lexus RZ.
What’s New
Arriving for 2025, the EX30 returns this year with more levels of regenerative braking, namely “off” for coasting and an aggressive “high” setting.
Volvo also expands the lineup with a trail-ready Cross Country model. This version features protective black cladding on the nose, fender flares, and bumper trim. The trim also gains an additional 0.8 inch of ground clearance thanks to model-specific springs and larger tires.
Standard Cross Country equipment includes 19-inch wheels with street tires, though buyers have the option to upgrade to 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. This upgrade can be selected as a standalone option or as part of a package that includes mudflaps and a roof rack.
What We Think
The EX30 is a stylish electric SUV that’s packed with tech and surprisingly fun to drive. Its electric vehicle performance could be better, though, and its size makes it more suited for city driving.
Although Volvo doesn’t market it as a sporty car, the EX30 comes with over 400 horsepower and quick acceleration. Plus, the crossover’s passive damper suspension ensures a smooth ride and solid body control around corners. Meanwhile, the interior remains quiet in the city, with minimal wind noise at high speeds.
The Cross Country variant, with its softer springs and sway bars, feels even more refined on the road. Like the rest of the EX30 lineup, the trail version is quick, well balanced, and quiet, though off-road tires may affect its performance.
Despite its compact cabin, the Volvo EX30 stands out in the entry-level electric vehicle segment with its impressive features and driving experience. That said, a competitor like the Tesla Model Y offers more space, better range, and quicker charging.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
Performance
All 2026 EX30s are equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive. Volvo pegs output at 422 horsepower, which is kind of a lot for such a small SUV. We expect it should be able to accelerate to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds.
The Model Y Long Range AWD produces 384 hp and can reach 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. In Performance trim, the Tesla makes 456 hp and can hustle to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. It’s worth noting that both Model Ys are about 300 pounds heavier than the EX30.
EV Range and Charging
The 2026 EX30 Twin Motor Performance is equipped with a 69-kWh battery and rated to deliver 253 miles of range with 19-inch wheels. With heavier 20-inch wheels, range drops slightly to 250 miles. Volvo says the battery can recover from 10 to 80 percent in about 27 minutes of Level 3 charging, with a somewhat modest charging capacity of 153 kW.
All Tesla Model Y variants feature a 75-kWh battery pack, capable of charging at speeds up to 250 kW on Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. The Long Range AWD model offers a range of up to 311 miles, and the Performance version provides up to 277 miles.
Safety Features
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping
- Road sign monitor
- Rain-sensing wipers
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The EX30 is tiny, but Volvo does a lot with good packaging. The rear seats fold flat, and raising the multi-position cargo floor to its higher setting aligns it with the folded seat backs to create a large, flat area. Due to the EX30’s low rear-seat height, most adult passengers in the back will find their knees positioned higher than their hips.
Technology
Infotainment
A vertically oriented 12.3-inch center touchscreen is standard and replaces most of the dash’s physical controls. The interface’s Google-based operating system can accommodate wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless phone charger and front and rear USB-C outlets are also included.
Sound System
All models feature a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system that includes a five-speaker front soundbar.
Available Upgrades
Apart from autonomous parking and a 360 camera, most add-ons are cosmetic. A contrasting roof is available as an exterior upgrade, while inside higher-end textile upholstery is on offer.
Value
Standard Features
Quirky and surprisingly athletic, the EX30 is small in size but big on personality. Highlights include its quick takeoffs, excellent handling, and well-packaged, unusual cabin.
Recommended Trim
Compared to the Cross Country model, the EX30 Plus and Ultra trims are kind of vanilla—get the Cross Country.
