What do KL Base, Ikea and Grumpy Bagels have in common? They were recently visited in quick succession by Volvo’s upcoming all-new electric model.
The EX30 will launch in Malaysia on Sept 25, and is expected to be offered in three variants just as in Thailand. Local assembly is planned.
Members of the media recently had a go at the smallest Volvo SUV in an overnight trip to Janda Baik, Pahang.
But before that, Volvo Car Malaysia wanted to highlight some aspects of the EX30 through various activities in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya.
We were passed the most powerful version of the EX30 with a dual motor setup, one on each axle, which gives it all-wheel drive capability, and a 460km range (WLTP).
The EX30 also comes in two lower-priced variants with a rear single motor and the same 480km range but are differentiated by equipment levels.
EX30 vs V60 T8 PHEV.
First stop was KL Base, where the EX30 showed off its pace, its 360-degree camera and agility as well as a new Volvo safety feature.
It was pitted against the V60 T8 electrified wagon with 462hp/708Nm that could gallop from 0-100kph in 4.5s.
That’s fast but the less well endowed EX30 was faster at 3.6s, easily widening the gap with the wagon in mid-stride by virtue of its lighter weight, instant motor torque and electric powertrain efficiency. In fact, the EX30 is Volvo’s fastest accelerating car ever!
With press members expecting the standard slalom, Volvo pulled a surprise by instructing participants to reverse between the cones using the 360-degree camera to navigate.
Many fumbled or ran over the cones but a few got it down pat as they twisted and turned the wheel, with the fastest contender being rewarded with a prize.
The EX30 is the first Volvo to prevent “dooring” accidents, alerting driver and passengers to approaching runner/cyclist/motorcylist with audio and visual cues before they open the doors. That was amply demonstrated at KL Base with a motorcyclist coming from behind the car.
Volvo sought to highlight the EX30’s smart interior packaging with the Ikea pitstop. Turning it into a competition, four teams of five to six people were tasked with buying RM2,000 worth of Ikea wares per team and stuffing them into every nook and cranny of four selected EX30s without jeopardising safety. This writer’s team won the contest.
The activity proved the EX30 to have quite a versatile storage layout. While the boot may be small at 318 litres, it expands to 904 litres when the rear backrests are folded, including a 61-litre underfloor compartment.
The rear-wheel suspension design maximises the load area width, and the flat floor simplifies the loading and unloading of items. The floor can even be adjusted to a lower position when transporting heavy or bulky cargo. There’s also a 7-litre covered frunk for extra storage.
Smaller and priced lower than the EX40 and EC40 (previously the electric XC40 and C40), the EX30’s compact size with a high beltline and muscular shoulders gives it a sporty stance. The short overhangs and aerodynamic lines also enhance its efficiency and visual appeal, complemented by 19-inch alloy wheels.
The front features a distinctive closed grille typical of electric vehicles, with Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, giving it a sharp, futuristic appearance.
The rear gets a pair of split design LED tail lights that emphasises the vehicle’s visual height.
Inside, the EX30’s Scandinavian-inspired cabin leans heavily on technology to keep the dashboard almost bare — to the point there’s no instrument cluster and the driver has to depend on the single 12.3-inch centre touchscreen for everything but the window controls.
This may not be to everyone’s taste particularly the less tech-savvy crowd. Even the glove box below the display can only be opened from a virtual button on the screen.
What’s more, the window buttons are on the centre console - and its rear side for back row - rather than on the doors, which can be cause for gripes. It's understandable from a manufacturing standpoint as it simplifies production of the car and reduces costs.
On the other hand, front cupholders that can be slid back for more space and the rear mid-drawer that’s removable are clever features that deserve praise.
As with every EV maker, Volvo echoes the mantra that its cars are made with sustainable materials. Recycled items such as denim, plastics and polyester are used substantially in the seats, trims and interior panels.
The EX30 features ergonomically designed seats that provide comfort for all five occupants, with front seats that are easily adjustable to suit different seating preferences.
The front seat backs are upholstered in matching materials, and their slim design increases legroom for rear passengers.
The panoramic glassroof doesn’t have a slider cover to shut off excessive light and feels hot to the touch on a blazing day but the air-conditioning is strong enough to keep passengers cool and comfortable.
The EX30 supports wireless Apple CarPlay and comes with Google services, providing integration for Android users.
Plus a Harman Kardon soundbar that wraps itself to the base of the front windscreen not only saves space but also helps distribute sound evenly throughout the cabin, contributing to the high quality audio experience.
Safety-wise, the EX30 features advanced technologies and robust structural designs that protect both driver and passengers.
Besides Volvo’s latest Pilot Assist system, the EX30’s safety package includes state-of-the-art active safety technologies such as front and rear cross-traffic alerts with automatic braking, lane departure warning, among others, ensuring comprehensive protection on the road.
The EX30 also offers a far-side airbag to reduce injuries in side impacts.
What’s the EX30 like on the road? Well, our impressions is that the EX30 drives like a charm.
Its small size belies the fact it’s big on performance with 422hp/543Nm on tap — fearsome numbers that should really belong to far bigger cars.
The EX30’s power is assertive but never overwhelming, ensuring a balanced and dynamic feel whether cruising through city streets or tackling the curvy roads to Janda Baik.
Note that the motors are powered by a 69kWh Li-ion (NMC) battery. The battery takes less than 30 mins to DC charge at 153kW from 10% to 80%. Meantime, AC charging at the maximum 11kW takes 7.5 hours from 0-100%.
The user-friendly one-pedal driving mode augments the intuitive feel, complemented by a responsive steering behaviour.
In urban settings, the EX30 shines with its agile nature, easily maneuvering tight streets and gives the option to auto-park effortlessly with Park Pilot Assist.
Its compact size is a strong asset, especially in busy city centres and narrow back alleys.
We experienced this first-hand after tea at Grumpy Bagels, a KL bakery cafe rapidly gaining fame through its owner’s shared journey on social media from ex-flight stewardess to bagel entrepreneur.
Leaving the cafe during rush hour, the EX30’s Pilot Assist made the congested drive more tolerable, managing speed, distance, and lane position with minimal input.
By default, the EX30 operates in rear-wheel drive mode, automatically engaging all-wheel drive when extra traction is needed, such as on slippery roads.
Drivers can also choose to keep all-wheel drive activated via the touchscreen, allowing the car to harness its full torque — ideal for confident overtaking and navigating winding hillside roads with the agility of a mountain goat.
Summing up
The EX30’s compact size, spirited performance, and modern design make it a shoe-in for urban dwellers and young professionals seeking a premium electric SUV.
However, its minimalist design ethos and reliance on touchscreen controls might not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer the tactile feedback of physical buttons.
Overall, the EX30 is a fine product. Its pricing, to be revealed at launch, will determine how accessible it is to the masses.
