In a market brimming with hulking EVs trying to mimic sports cars and smartphones all at once, the EX30 is a timely reminder that less when executed properly is still more.

A Shared Platform, But Not Shared Personality

The EX30 shares its underpinnings with the Smart #1 and Zeekr X, courtesy of Volvo’s parent company, Geely. But much like three cousins raised on different sides of the world, the similarities end at the skeleton. Where the Smart and Zeekr feel like a hip city runabout, the EX30 exudes a kind of Nordic cool that’s as understated as it is intentional.

There’s no faux aggression here. No “look-at-me” aero vents or plastic cladding masquerading as machismo. Instead, you get clean-cut lines, muscular haunches, and Volvo’s signature ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running lights, which lend the car a sense of quiet authority.

Sustainable Style, Sans Gimmicks

The minimalist theme on the inside is not minimal for the sake of design, but rather for a purpose.

The dashboard, for instance, isn’t weighed down by layers of plastic and chrome. Instead, it’s refreshingly clean, with cleverly integrated components like the full-width soundbar that eliminates the need for bulky door speakers.

That, in turn, frees up space for larger door bins, a small but meaningful win for daily practicality.

Materials feel thoughtful and eco-conscious, but not in a way that screams “granola and hemp.” The seats are plush, supportive, and fashioned from recycled textiles that don’t feel recycled. There’s a sort of quiet satisfaction in how everything comes together. Scandinavian hygge in motion.

However, rear legroom is a little tight, and the high floor means passengers sit knees up, with little thigh support. Not ideal for long-haul drives unless your rear passengers are not that tall or particularly forgiving.

Buttonless, But Not Always Seamless

Like the Tesla Model 3, the EX30 has done away with most physical buttons. Climate controls, mirror adjustments, even the fog lights are all buried in the touchscreen.

There’s a “quick access” menu, but the things it prioritises feel… misplaced. Need to dim the ambient lighting? Perfect. Want to adjust your mirrors while reversing? Sorry, reverse gear locks out that menu.

It’s the sort of UX oddity that reminds you this car, for all its intelligence, still needs a software update or two. Thankfully, seat controls are still physical. 

That said, boot space is a solid 400 litres, and the 61-litre frunk is the perfect home for your charging cables and wet umbrellas. Volvo clearly understands that Singaporean boots aren’t just for groceries; they’re for shoe racks, fan boxes, and the occasional foldable chair too.

Light But Surprisingly Delightful

We previously took the Cat-B EX30 out for review, and what surprised us most about this Cat-A variant is just how similar it feels to its faster sibling.

Seriously, driving both back to back, most will struggle to tell the difference. And that’s where its beautiful driving dynamics really come into play.

It’s rear-wheel drive, which helps with balance, and while it’s not what you’d call thrilling, the EX30 is more than agile enough to dart through tight city traffic and take on expressway ramps with confidence.

It’s a zippy little machine, and where it truly shines is the ride quality. It doesn’t crash over bumps or rattle through rough patches. In fact, it rides better than its bigger sibling, the EC40, and makes the Zeekr X feel like a marshmallow on stilts. The brakes are well-tuned too, blending regenerative and frictional braking into one seamless experience.

It’s a brilliant car on the roads, and all of the expected Volvo safety tech is present too for the ever-cautious. You get everything from alerts for pedestrians, cyclists, to cross traffic warnings, and beeps for inattentive driving. The 360-degree cameras are crystal clear, and adaptive cruise control with lane centring works unobtrusively.

Volvo claims 475km (WLTP) on a full charge, and the 69kWh battery sips little to no power even when pushed hard.

We managed a healthy 370km with 24% battery remaining, which is commendable. And with a 153kW DC charging rate, the EX30 will go from 10% to 80% in just over half an hour. Brilliant stuff.

The Right Kind of Different

The Volvo EX30 is not perfect. Its rear seats could use more room, and its infotainment interface needs a rethink.

But in almost every other aspect, it’s a winner. Attractive design? Check. Smooth ride? Check. Compact size with proper safety kit? Double check. It’s proof that you don’t need 600 horsepower or 15-inch screens to make a car feel special.

For urbanites looking for a premium yet compact EV that’s practical, stylish, and just the right amount of different, the EX30 is a refreshing proposition in a sea of tech-obsessed sameness.

Technical Specifications

Volvo EX30 (110kW)

Engine: Single Electric Motor
Powertrain: Rear Wheel Drive
Power: 110 kW (148 bhp)
Torque: 343 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0100km/h: 8.6 Seconds
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Battery Capacity: 69 kWh
Drive Range: 475 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 5.7km/kWh (claimed)
Price: S$224,000 (Plus)  S$238,000 (Ultra) with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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That’s right, the car you’re looking at is more than a decade old. It was first facelifted in 2019, and rather than design a whole new car, Volvo has facelifted it again for 2025. With its handsome proportions and quietly commanding presence, the 2025 update is light on theatrics but heavy on sensibility.

This isn’t a brand new car, but rather a matured one. And, much like a good bottle of aquavit, it’s only gotten better with age.

So, what’s changed?

Visually, you’ll have to squint. The lines have been tidied up, the lights sharpened ever so slightly, and the grille’s had a shave. Inside, there’s a slicker interface and some finetuning under the skin. But don’t mistake subtlety for stagnation.

Electrification is the name of the game, and Volvo’s gone all in. The B5 is now a mild-hybrid with 249bhp and 360Nm, paired to an 8-speed auto gearbox and permanent all-wheel drive.

Smooth Operator, Not a Thrill Seeker

If you’re here looking for Nürburgring lap times, you’re in the wrong part of Sweden. This isn’t a Cayenne. The XC90 is designed to soothe, not stimulate. And in that sense, it’s pitch-perfect.

Everything about the driving experience is calm, collected, and completely inoffensive. The steering is light but precise, the ride is plush and well-damped even on large 20-inch rims, and the cabin remains serene even at expressway speeds.

The B5 petrol, while not earth-shatteringly quick, is more than adequate for everyday driving. The 48V mild-hybrid system helps eliminate turbo lag and smooth out the start-stop transitions, which are nearly imperceptible now.

Volvo did something unusual with the XC90, stating it would never have a bigger engine than a 2.0-litre four-cylinder. Because of this, real-world fuel economy has taken a bit of a hit, hovering around 9.0km/litre. A little more oomph will benefit the B5, but this figure is still respectable for a car of this size.

Scandinavian Sanctuary

With the aforementioned 2-litre engine decision, Volvo was also adamant that it would be mounted crossways in the engine bay.

This might sound silly, but by tucking the powertrain in tighter, it frees up precious centimetres inside. The result is one of the most thoughtfully laid-out interiors you’ll find in any three-row SUV today.

Pale wood trims, recycled fabrics, and vertically oriented air vents all speak to a sensibility that favours wellness over wow factor.

The 11.2inch portrait touchscreen is now sharper and more responsive, and runs on a Google-based OS that integrates Maps and voice commands seamlessly.

The real joy, though, is how everything works. The seat folding mechanisms are buttery smooth and can be operated one-handed. The wireless charger has been repositioned, and you just feel like the car was designed with care in mind.

Rear visibility is excellent, and all seven seats are usable. And unlike many three-row SUVs, there’s still 301 litres of boot space with all seats up (thanks to the engine layout).

Fold down the all of the seats and you’ll get up to 1,950 litres, enough for a Singaporean’s entire IKEA wishlist.

Elegance in Evolution

More than a decade on, the Volvo XC90 is still the one to beat in its class. It’s a vehicle designed with a clear mission: to transport your family safely, comfortably, and with a quiet sense of pride.

In a sea of oversized grills, fake engine noises, and overzealous software suites, the XC90 feels like a breath of cool Scandinavian air. It’s a car that looks after your loved ones.

And isn’t that what a good family car should do?

Volvo XC90

Engine: 2-litre inline 4, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Power: 249 bhp
Torque: 360 Nm
Gearbox: 8-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 7.7 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Fuel Tank Capacity: 71 litres 
Fuel Economy: 10.9 km/litre (claimed)
Price: S$444,000 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Over 2.7 million have found homes since its 2008 debut, overtaking even the legendary, shoebox-shaped Volvo 240 earlier this year. You can’t swing a cinnamon bun in Stockholm without spotting one.

It’s the middle child of the Volvo SUV family; smaller and less ostentatious than the XC90, but more spacious and grown-up than the little XC40. In car-market terms, it lands smack in the middle of the most overcrowded playground of them all: the mid-size crossover segment.

Its rivals?

The Audi Q5, BMW X3, and the Mercedes-Benz GLC. All competent, all capable. But while the Germans seem to march to the same drumbeat, the Volvo hums its own tune.

It’s been around for a while, hasn’t it?

This is the second generation, which arrived in 2017 after the first enjoyed a respectable nine-year run. A facelift came in 2021, and again in early 2025.

The latest tweaks include a new grille, an upsized infotainment screen, and fresh cabin materials. Engines remain unchanged.

So what’s it like to drive?

If you want white-knuckle excitement, this isn’t your car. The XC60’s idea of engagement is guiding you through bends with the calm assurance of a seasoned chauffeur. For 2025, Volvo has added extra sound insulation, so it’s even quieter inside.

All-wheel drive is standard, and there’s no big “Sport” button here, just a subtle setting hidden in the menus if you want things a touch firmer. The steering is light by default, but can be weighted up electronically. Ride quality is plush, without the wheel-hop or body float that sometimes plagues the XC90.

The eight-speed automatic is smooth when cruising, but hesitates if you ask for a quick burst of acceleration.

Our test unit was the T8 PHEV, and the hybrid powertrain suits the XC60 perfectly. It glides along silently in EV mode for a real-world 55km, with Volvo claiming up to 67km. The electric torque makes the car feel sprightlier than the numbers suggest. Charging from a AC wallbox takes about three hours.

Safety, as always, is a Volvo calling card, and the XC60 has it in droves, from lane departure avoidance to steering support that helps you dodge obstacles while staying in control.

What’s it like inside?

From the outside, the XC60 could pass for a tall estate. Inside, you’re perched high in one of the most supportive seats in the business. The rear bench is equally accommodating, with thoughtful touches like optional integrated child seats. Light pours in through the panoramic roof, enhancing the sense of space.

Cabin materials lean towards Scandinavian; matte wood, pale leather, and an airy ambience that feels as calming as a lakeside cabin. Sadly, most buyers still default to black leather and brushed aluminium.

A crystal gear selector is crafted by Swedish glassmaker Orrefors, though it feels a touch flashy compared to the otherwise restrained interior.

A crisp 12.3-inch digital driver’s display sits ahead of you, flanked by the new 11.2-inch portrait infotainment screen. It looks a bit like someone glued a tablet to the dash, but the Snapdragon-powered interface is fast, fluid, and pin-sharp. Google integration is standard with Apple CarPlay also on board.

Physical buttons are scarce, so you’ll be tapping the screen for climate controls, drive settings, and just about everything else. A single rotary knob handles volume – old-school, but appreciated.

With 483 litres, it’s roomier than an Audi Q5, though smaller than a BMW X3 or GLC. PHEV versions lose a negligible 15 litres due to battery packaging. Fold the seats and you’ve got up to 1,410 litres, enough for all your IKEA ambitions.

Sensible and sweet

The Volvo XC60 takes the best bits of the XC90 and distils them into a smaller, more manageable package. The cabin is serene, the design understated, and the driving experience pleasantly unhurried.

It’s still one of the most socially acceptable cars out there. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you want.

Technical Specifications

Volvo XC60

Engine: 2-litre in-line 4, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Power: 449 bhp
Torque: 709 Nm
Gearbox: 8-Speed Geartronic
0-100km/h: 4.9 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Fuel Tank Capacity: 71 litres 
Fuel Economy: 18.3 km/litre (tested)
Price: S$354,000 (T8 Plus) with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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It’s been Volvo’s global best-seller for a reason, and with the latest round of updates, it’s more poised than ever to keep that crown firmly in place.

Wearnes Automotive has brought in two variants: the Volvo XC60 B5 Plus Mild-Hybrid and the punchier XC60 T8 Plus Plug-in Hybrid. Both share the same 2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged heart, but the T8 ups the ante with electric muscle, putting down a combined 455 horsepower and 709 Nm of torque. Zero to hundred in 4.9 seconds.

The B5, on the other hand, has 250 horsepower and a fuel economy of 8.7L/100km.

Slip inside, and you’ll be greeted by Nappa leather, Driftwood décor inlays, and a crystal gear selector by Orrefors. With laminated windows, air suspension (optional), and an advanced air purification system that filters out PM2.5 particles, the XC60 aims to redefine what peace and quiet on the move actually means.

The refreshed XC60 sports a new 11.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen, now powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Cockpit Platform. Built-in Google services and over-the-air updates keep everything connected.

Volvo’s user interface also takes a Scandinavian stab at minimalism: intuitive, calm, and mercifully free of visual clutter. And for the audiophiles: 14 Harman Kardon speakers (standard), or go all out with a Bowers & Wilkins system.

Outside, the Volvo XC60 has undergone subtle tweaks. There’s a more defined front grille, new wheels, darker rear lights, and a trio of new colours, including the sultry Mulberry Red.

Naturally, being a Volvo, safety is paramount. You get everything from Pilot Assist adaptive cruise control to a full suite of airbags, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and Volvo’s clever City Safety system that watches out for cyclists, pedestrians, and errant animals.

The T8 also introduces “One Pedal Drive,” for those who want a more electric-like experience, with enhanced regenerative braking.

Ready to test serenity on wheels? First deliveries are now underway. You can meet the Volvo XC60 at Volvo’s showroom along Alexandra Road or book a test drive online.

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At just 4,233mm long, the EX30 is the smallest SUV ever built by Volvo, but it’s anything but cramped. Step inside and you’re greeted by a refined, clutter-free cabin built around a 12.3-inch floating centre display powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS.

The Ultra variant ups the ante with a Harman Kardon soundbar, four ambient lighting themes, and sustainably crafted interiors in denim or flax, echoing Volvo’s push for greener luxury.

Under the skin, the EX30 is offered in two battery configurations. The Plus variant uses a 51kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery with a range of up to 337km, while the Ultra version upgrades to a 69kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt battery that stretches the range to 475km (WLTP).

Charging is a breeze too; DC fast charging (up to 153kW) brings the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just under half an hour.

Despite its Cat A status, there’s a healthy 343Nm of torque sent to the rear wheels. The 0-100km/h sprint clocks in at 8.6 seconds.

And this wouldn’t be a Volvo without a wall of safety tech. Standard features include Pilot Assist, Lane Keeping Aid, Cross Traffic Alert with Autobrake, and Door Opening Alert.

Both variants enjoy Category A COE eligibility and a VES A1 rating, making the Volvo EX30 not just stylish and sustainable but smartly positioned for Singapore’s tax and incentive framework.

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Now in its latest evolution for 2025, the brand’s flagship SUV makes a compelling case not just as a premium family hauler, but as a statement of how luxury can still whisper rather than shout.

Power in Two Flavours

Buyers now have two powertrains to choose from.

The XC90 B5 Ultra Mild-Hybrid continues Volvo’s tradition of effortless performance paired with responsible engineering. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine is paired with a 48V integrated starter-generator, delivering 250hp.

If you’re after something with a bit more fire in its belly, the XC90 T8 Ultra Plug-in Hybrid might just be your thing. With a combined output of 455hp and 800km+ of range, this version delivers a 0-100km/h dash in just 5.4 seconds.

And when it comes to plugging in, a full recharge takes just three hours on a 6.4kW AC charger.

The latest model gains Frequency Selective Damping and, in the T8 variant, a fully-electronic air suspension that constantly analyses the road 500 times a second. It adapts accordingly, lowering itself on highways for better aerodynamics, or rising to tackle uneven terrain when needed.

Volvo has also enhanced the cabin’s quietness. Laminated glass all around, acoustic foam stuffed into the pillars, and even extra insulation in the firewall, all designed to create a cocoon from the chaotic outside world.

A Gentle Giant That Keeps You Safer Than Ever

Volvo didn’t become synonymous with safety by accident, and the new XC90 doubles down on this legacy.

Active lane-keeping, road-edge detection, and autonomous emergency braking for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and even large animals are all part of the suite.

In an era where tech often replaces tactility, it’s heartening that Volvo still makes safety systems that don’t feel overly intrusive, but rather quietly competent.

Subtle on the Outside, Striking Where It Counts

Design-wise, the XC90 hasn’t gone for a radical reinvention. Subtle touches like a reworked grille, tweaked bumpers, and new Matrix LED headlights with corner illumination make their mark.

At the back, it’s the same dignified silhouette Singaporeans have grown familiar with.

Slide inside, and you’re greeted by quintessential Scandinavian luxury. Recycled premium materials now decorate the panels, underscoring Volvo’s quiet pursuit of sustainability.

The centre touchscreen has grown to 11.2 inches and boasts crisper resolution, with built-in Google apps, OTA software updates, and even Spotify and YouTube built right in.

The redesigned centre console now includes more storage, an extra cupholder, and a relocated wireless charging pad, all based on feedback from actual owners.

Music lovers will feel especially seen here. The B5 variant gets a Harman Kardon system with 14 speakers and 660 watts, while the T8 throws in a Bowers & Wilkins masterpiece with 19 speakers and 1,460 watts.

Need to haul the family? Third-row seats are standard. Need to carry luggage? Fold those seats down for over 1,100 litres of boot space. Want to keep everyone cool? A 4-zone climate control system with PM2.5 filtration sees to that.

Massage seats, power sunshades, integrated child booster, and even rear-window sun blinds round off the list of features that make the XC90 a rolling sanctuary.

“The XC90 continues to set the benchmark for premium SUVs in Singapore”

Corinne Chua, Managing Director for Volvo at Wearnes

It may not shout the loudest, nor wear the flashiest badge, but in typical Volvo fashion, it lets the experience do the talking. In this latest guise, the Volvo XC90 speaks clearer and more confidently than ever.

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Notably, electric vehicles (EVs) played a pivotal role in this success, constituting 58% of total sales.

The star performer was the newly launched Volvo EX30, which became the brand’s best-selling model in Singapore. Together with the EX40 and EC40, these fully electric models make up Volvo’s current vehicle portfolio in Singapore.

Corinne Chua, Managing Director for Volvo at Wearnes, attributed this growth to the trust and confidence of Singaporean drivers. “The success of models like the EX30 and EX40 reflects our ability to meet the evolving preferences of our customers, who increasingly prioritise technology, safety, and sustainability. We remain committed to delivering premium electrified solutions that inspire confidence and contribute to the future of motoring in Singapore,” she said.

Globally, Volvo Cars has set ambitious goals, with more than 90% of its sales expected to come from electrified vehicles in the near future. Locally, the EX30, EX40, and EC40 have been pivotal in promoting this vision.

Looking ahead, Singaporean consumers can anticipate the arrival of the Volvo EX90 in 2025. Touted as a masterpiece of Scandinavian design, this model promises state-of-the-art safety features, sustainable performance, and a seamless blend of luxury and innovation.

Volvo Cars’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond vehicle electrification. The brand is steadfast in its goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

As the brand accelerates into 2025, its trajectory is clear: a dedication to crafting vehicles that embody freedom, safety, and sustainability. 

For more information or to explore Volvo’s latest offerings, visit the Volvo Cars Singapore website.

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The handover ceremony, held at DSV Singapore, marked a significant step towards sustainable transportation in the region. The initiative aligns with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, a nationwide effort to achieve sustainable development.

Gino Marzola, Managing Director of DSV Air & Sea Singapore & Malaysia, expressed the importance of this transition: “Launching our new electric fleet marks a pivotal moment for DSV in Singapore. We are leading the way toward a greener, more sustainable future.”

With positive feedback from clients, DSV is excited about how this initiative will bolster its long-term sustainability goals.

Volvo Trucks is no stranger to the electrification movement, boasting over 4,200 electric trucks operating in 46 countries. DSV is now one of Volvo’s largest customers for electric models, having signed a major deal for 300 units for its European operations earlier this year.

The two models introduced in Singapore, the Volvo FL Electric and Volvo FM Electric, showcase the latest advancements in truck technology. The FL Electric is perfect for urban distribution, with its compact design making it ideal for navigating Singapore’s bustling streets.

On the other hand, the FM Electric is designed for long-haul journeys while maintaining a zero-emission operation. Both trucks feature all-electric drivetrains, offering quieter operation and reduced maintenance costs compared to traditional diesel vehicles.

Tailored to meet local needs, the FL model comes with three batteries, while the FM boasts five, providing longer range and versatility.

Volvo also plans to launch a long-range version of its FH Electric truck in 2025, capable of travelling up to 600 km on a single charge. This will make it feasible to use electric trucks on longer routes, thanks to innovative e-axle technology that enhances battery capacity and efficiency.

Anna Engblom, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks for Southeast Asia & Japan, emphasised the importance of long-term partnerships in achieving sustainability goals. “We need to be prepared to manage changes without much warning.”

To ensure a smooth transition, DSV is backed by a 7-year Gold Service Agreement from Volvo, covering all service and repairs. UD Trucks Singapore is also playing a vital role, providing driver training to ensure DSV’s team is well-equipped to operate the new vehicles efficiently.

Joseph Heng, General Manager of UD Trucks Singapore, expressed excitement about contributing to this green transition, underlining the importance of comprehensive training and support.

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The #VolvoExplorers space brings Volvo’s history and values to life in a way that’s interactive and educational. Children and their families can learn about Volvo’s legacy in safety innovation, like the 3-point seatbelt, which Volvo introduced back in 1959.

Through various activities, the little ones can practice safety habits, such as buckling up.

On the sustainability front, the space shines a spotlight on electric vehicles (EVs) and how they contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Kids will learn about the Volvo EX30, showcasing how tech and sustainability go hand in hand.

What makes the #VolvoExplorers space unique is how it blends arts-driven exploration with technology and innovation. Kids can step into the shoes of designers, builders, and safety inspectors through a series of interactive stations.

The hero of the space is an “Explorer-Sized” version of the Volvo EX30 parked at an EV charging station. This installation serves as a hands-on learning tool.

Safety is Volvo’s bread and butter, and here, children get to experience a mini “Safety Check” of their own. By inspecting features like seatbelts, cameras, and car seats, they can check off safety checkpoints just like the rigorous process real Volvo cars go through before hitting the road.

The interactive magnetic road map wall invites kids to explore green initiatives with wooden cutouts of Volvo’s electric vehicle models, like the EX30 and EX40.

For budding designers, there’s an Ideation Chalk Wall where children can sketch out their car designs. With a material shelf filled with textiles, rubber, and acrylics, they’ll get to feel the real stuff that goes into building a car. Volvo’s eco-friendly materials are on display too.

To round off the experience, kids can throw on designer aprons and helmets, using tools to role-play as they design, assemble, and inspect their own vehicles. The large-scale Explorer-Sized Volvo Car acts as a tangible representation of their ideas coming together in full view.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with The Artground to create a space where children can explore big ideas about safety and sustainability,” said Corinne Chua, Managing Director at Volvo Wearnes. “At Volvo, improving safety for children is a key focus. Through these hands-on experiences, we hope to instil safety habits in a fun and educational way.”

The Artground Executive Director, Luanne Poh, echoed this enthusiasm, “Learning through play is essential for a child’s development. #VolvoExplorers is a wonderful opportunity to inspire children through creative arts while diving into important topics like sustainability and safety.”

The #VolvoExplorers space promises to be a rich, hands-on learning experience for children and their families.

Opening Hours

Daily from:

• 9:15am – 10:30am
• 10:45am – 12pm
• 1:45pm – 3pm
• 3:15pm – 4:30pm
• 4:45pm – 6pm

Tickets are available by pre-booking, with limited walk-ins allowed based on availability.

Location

Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Rd, #01-40 BLK J, Singapore 439053  

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Volvo’s lineup is a showcase of SUVs these days, and their most compact offering now is the EX30. It’s new and all-electric, which is perfect considering Volvo’s commitment to going fully electric by 2030.

The EX30 shares its platform with the Smart #1 and Zeekr X, thanks to Volvo’s parent company, Geely. But while the bones may be the same, Volvo has sprinkled its own Scandinavian magic over this compact crossover.

It’s awfully sleek

The EX30 doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not, and there’s no attempt at being falsely sporty.

The lines are sharp, the stance is muscular, and the classic ‘Thor’s hammer’ lights are there, though the familiar Volvo grille is swapped for a more streamlined look. Proper chunky door handles too.

And minimalist

Step inside and the minimalist theme continues. The cabin is designed with sustainability in mind; saving energy, reducing materials, and using fewer components overall.

The whole thing oozes Scandi cool – simple vents, lightweight but comfy armrests, and the dash, which cleverly integrates a soundbar, freeing up space for larger door bins. It’s one of those interiors where everything serves a purpose.

The front seats are as soft as they are supportive, but then there’s that weirdly square steering wheel. The square design doesn’t improve visibility, especially since there are no dials behind it anyway.

Wait, where are the buttons?

Like the Tesla Model 3, the EX30 has no driver’s instrument pod. Instead, you’ll need to glance left to check your speed and navigation. Volvo claims this shift isn’t a big deal, but in practice, I did find it a little hard to moderate speed for speed cameras.

Everything, from mirror adjustments to climate controls, is buried in the touchscreen. Want to tweak the mirrors while reversing? Sorry, the reverse gear blocks access to that menu. Even things you need in a hurry, like turning on dipped beams or foglights, take the same number of taps as tasks you’d do only when parked, like adjusting the charging schedule. 

There’s a quick-access menu, but it seems to prioritise the wrong things; changing ambient light colour feels oddly urgent here. Hopefully, a future over-the-air update will sort out these quirks.

The electric seats, standard with the Ultra trim, have physical switches. But there are only a pair of window switches, with a toggle to manage the rear windows similar to the Volkswagen ID.4.

How’s the rear?

Unfortunately, this is the car’s weak link. The rear legroom is tight, and the high floor and angled seats pushes your knees up uncomfortably. 

However, the boot is decent at 400 litres with a handy double floor. Plus, there’s a 61-litre frunk that’s just right for storing your charging cables and other small items.

Is it easy to drive?

Some folks might appreciate the light steering feel, but it can feel disconcertingly light even in its heaviest setting. But, once you’ve acclimatised, the EX30 reveals itself as a fairly agile car, managing to disguise its slightly porky weight. The rear-drive setup helps keep things neutral when you’re putting the power down, which adds to its surprisingly poised handling.

Where the EX30 really shines, though, is in its ride quality. Despite its size, it offers a cushioned ride that polishes off both big bumps and minor road irritations without much fuss.

In fact, it rides better than its bigger sibling, the Volvo C40 (or EC40 now?), and it’s miles ahead of the wallowy Zeekr X in terms of comfort. The brakes, which meld regenerative and friction braking nicely, are another standout feature.

Power and safety when you need it

In Singapore, we only get the Ultra variant, which comes with 268bhp and 343Nm of torque. These figures will help you clear the century sprint in just over five seconds.

Volvo is known for its safety tech, and the EX30 doesn’t disappoint. You get all the usual alerts for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and crossing traffic. The 360-degree parking cameras are a handy touch too.

On the highway, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring system work smoothly without the over-excitable bonging and wheel-grabbing you find in some EVs.

Adjusting the time interval to the car in front, however, requires a bit of a menu dive, something most cars manage with a simple steering wheel button. This can be a little frustrating when you’re merging onto a busy section and need to change settings quickly.

I’m concerned about range

We hear you. With the 19-inch wheels and rear-drive setup, Volvo claims a maximum of 475km (WLTP).

In our tests, we saw a real-world range of 340km with about 21% of battery left, which isn’t bad for a 69kWh battery.

So don’t worry, the EX30 can confidently fit a week’s worth of driving before needing a juice-up. Even so, with a 153kW max charging rate, the car will be charged up before you can finish lunch.

Sensible Swedish solution

The Volvo EX30 feels solid and refined, and its design is attractive. For what you get at this price point, it seems like a bargain compared to some of its rivals. While it might be better for a pair of drivers instead of a family, for the most part, this is a likeable, well-rounded EV that ticks a lot of boxes.

If you’re after something compact and fun to drive, this little Swede should be on your shortlist.

Technical Specifications

Volvo EX30 Ultra

Engine: Single Electric Motor, Rear Wheel Drive
Power: 200 kW (268 bhp)
Torque: 343 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 5.3 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Battery Capacity: 69 kWh
Drive Range: 475 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 5.7 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$247,000 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Volvo Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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