Note: the braking score should be 118ft, not 123. Somehow I knew the EX90, EX30, and Polestar 3 look super similar, but not until I parked them all together did I scratch my head and go "wow, it's like some just scaled the photo up/down" LOL
Before you detractors freak out about this being made in China, need I remind you that your $1000 phone, $3000 gaming laptop, $3000 fridge, $2000 OLED TV etc etc etc are all made in China too.
Yes and no because Murica always think it's better than China while its population is lacking skills in many aspects and work ethical, and Murican brands can't even compete with Chinese brands in term of technologies and software, so it decided to ban those brands instead of learning from them to improve itself which shows how big Murican ego is!
This is the most helpful rundown of the EX30 in the US, thanks Alex. My questions, if you don’t mind answering over the course of your lease: 1) How easy is it to change the in-cabin air filter? In Teslas I’ve come across, that is an arduous piece to switch out as it requires removing trim pieces. 2) Are RFID cards any less safe or more “hackable” than a traditional key fob? 3) How is the efficiency of the machine over the course of your lease? Thanks again, and keep up the great work. So informative-and the podcast is a wonderful addition to the channel!
RFID cards "seem" more secure because of their very very very short range, but they seem like a pain in the butt to be honest and ever car that uses them seems to have faint scratches all over the place where you have to tap the card.
Unless you need very small car, I’d recommend an Equinox EV. For the same price, you can actually carry 5 adults and take the family on a trip. I also have a Bolt EUV and an owned a 2019 Bolt EV before I purchased the EUV. My Equinox EV is a recent 2-yr 12,000 per yr lease. Even with the LG fiasco, Chevy and GM have been good to me.
$47K? That's a non-starter for me in such a tiny, compromised vehicle. Plus, I am just not ready for how weird this car functions. Also, I travel in remote areas where owning an electric only vehicle with such limited range, especially in the cold northern winters, is absolutely not an option.
We got our EX30 at the same place, think I saw yours with the SOLD sign, we got a white one with the Pine interior theme. Regarding the interior "garage floor" pattern type, there are a total of 4 different interior themes you can get and looks like your got Breeze which has that garage type pattern. The other 3 do not, Pine, Mist and Indigo. Definitely some quirks and I HATE the key card thing, crazy that is what we have until they enable phone access. We did get just one key "fob" but without that, my goodness.
So a little secret for you from someone who worked at VCC. This is not a Volvo, this is a Geely with Volvo badge and really cheap interior. The reason this thing exists is that VCC had no vehicle to sell apart from ageing SPA1 and CMA vehicles (all the 40/60 and 90). They were supposed to be replaced by vehicles based on SPA2 but the platform turned to be so bad there will be only 2 vehicles based on that (EX90 and PS3). It was obvious in 2020 VCC had nothing as SPA3 will take a few years to develop. On top of that XC90/EX90 based on SPA2 was being badly delayed (it was scheduled for SOP 22w13 so 3 years ago and starting just now) so it was clear they needed something quick. Geely comes to the rescue with the SEA platform already used for Smart 1 and Zeekr X (much better cars BTW). Hello project V216. VCC did not work on EX30, Geely CN did. That’s why you should not be surprised about some design and functionality decisions, VCC did not make them. Chinese engineers based in CN did. This a very successful stop gap product which came as a great surprise to VCC. Next is EX30 Cross country, same car with slightly higher ride hight
@ correct, that’s why I’m not revealing any proper secrets. Only publicly known info which is clearly not a common knowledge. But it’s astonishing so many ppl still fall for “what a nice Volvo” scam. Influencers and reviews are doing a good job pushing that narrative
Thanks for the review! I will watch to see if weaknesses are addressed with updates. (1) no tesla supercharging (2) no phone key (3) no 1-pedal drive in performance mode & (4) software issues.
I’m not a fan of the minimalist design and the interior looks cheap to me. I don’t understand Volvo sticking to climate controls that require a tap to open up another menu rather than than having the basic temperature and fan controls all accessible. I like instrument clusters. It looks nice on the outside and has impressive horsepower but is an easy no for me even if I wanted a car that small. It’s kind of a head scratcher to me for the price.
I very much agree. It feels like this car has been cost cut to the bone, but even a Chevy Bolt had the sense to put normal buttons. I guess people who prefer automatic controls won't mind, while people like me who tweak the controls often will be more distracted.
@@1997nickuntil there's 35k models on dealer lots, it's a 46k car. Don't buy into the marketing bullshit that is outright fraud and they should be sued over
The base price is 46k until the other models are actually on dealer lots. Just like the first year of the silverado was only 100k and now we get the fleet model 50k trucks, the equinox is now available for 34k vs its original 42k, and tesla took YEARS to get the base model 3 out for the promised price
@AAutoBuyersGuide and a base golf is also in production, but in America it starts at 31k with the gti. In 2020, the base price of a regular golf was 24k, while a gti was 29k. You don't see me saying a golf starts at 24k in 2025, as it's not sold here. Until it's sold here, the price is irrelevant.
Great review. Love my 2023 Volvo C40 twin motor. Geely has done a great job of combining the best elements of Chinese and Scandinavian tech & design, unlike Ford + Volvo and GM + Saab.
@muskistutter because we have "positive" reviews like this on a product that won't last a year becsuse of the disconnect between what governments want and what people want
Being in Spain I bought the sister car Smart #3 RWD last May. Have 10k km and very pleased with it. Checked the EX30 before deciding on the #3 due to the cramped interior and sparse interior. IMO, my Smart, as well as most other chinese cars available here, their interior looks far more upscale in both materials and features. For example, my car has full Beats audio, HUD, much nicer seats and appointments in the cabin etc with the same drivetrain. Software different and now have quick disconnect for safety warnings which are indeed vey annoying.
I'm 6'5". My wife is average height, but our son and our grandchildren take after me. We don't fit the EX30... or vice versa.It's a nice car... but it's a small car.
I cancelled my preorder from Volvo because it was taking way too long and I didn't want the twin motor at launch. Went with a 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL AWD because I couldn't get a RWD version where I live. Revisit this in 24 months when software issues can be worked out. Another choice is the Rivian R3 though.
Please test the lane centering feature, I wonder if they have improve that since the XC40 Recharge. It would wonder to every exit if you are in the right lane on a highway, not good.
I was hyped when the EX30 first was announced, but after seeing the EV3 I just can’t justify the price. I’ve also heard quality and software are buggy, but that’s somewhat expected for a first year new model.
I'm EXACTLY in your position. The EV3 just seems more impressive in all the areas an actual AVERAGE buyer will care about. More cargo space, a lot more legroom, it's more efficient, has way more range from its massive 81.4kwh gross battery, offers VtoL capability I believe, interior seems higher quality and a lot more luxurious with 3 screens, offers an opening sunroof, and should cost less. Also charging performance should be almost identical with it doing 10-80% in 31min. The only downside is it's not nearly as fast or sporty. Currently only FWD 200hp models are being made and they do 0-60 in 6.75 seconds or so. It's plenty quick but the EX30 doing 0-60 in 3.3s for 45-50K is absurdly impressive. Luckily KIA said an AWD/GT model should arrive and do 0-60 in under 5 seconds which is plenty quick if it happens. Either way I really hope KIA can get the EV3 long range to America and make the heat pump at least optional on all trims if not standard for 35K or less. Equinox EV gets 200hp, 85kwh battery usable I think, 319 miles of range, and good tech. EV3 has to beat all that!
Ehh it should be a hot seller. 3.3 seconds 0-60 and costing mid 40s and decent range? Not bad at all. But I do completely agree it's not as quality of a product as I would have hoped. Nothing like the xc40/60/90 models
I like the look of the EV3, but even when it comes out in around 18 months for North America, it won't have the performance that we find in this. Range should be better, pricing should be somewhat similar, but it's hard to value brand... how much is the Volvo logo worth? How much is the rear wheel drive dynamic worth? And how much discount should you apply to the cheesy sound system?
@@AAutoBuyersGuide EV3 will be a lot cheaper than the EX30 especially after incentives since it'll be built in Mexico. And know how aggressive Hyundai/Kia are with lease deals, will probably only be around $200/mo like their other EV deals
@@GlitterGuru well in terms of MSRP I don't think it will be "significantly cheaper" tbh. Base models will likely be around 35K and top end AWD/GT models around 45K+. Obviously we will have to see
Seems the base EX30 is competitive. I would think that the software & other bits will be better baked in about a year. Aside from the price, I don’t know why the Lexus UX is out there. Very low value to price ratio. But if you want an Lexus…
Great review. I was curious about the audio quality of that sound bar. I agree the wool blend interior seems much more premium. Volvo made an odd choice with the epoxy-look panels for the blue interior.
The performance, size, and price make me curious how effectively an extra sporty version could compete with the Golf R. Like drop the ride height with stiffer adaptive springs/dampers & give it a set of sticky performance tires alongside a rear eLSD and bam you have an electric hot hatch Golf-R rival for a similar price.
You would really want to have an EV to take the base model of this thing. You can get plenty of well equipped, efficient, and larger Japanese and Korean ICE vehicles for $35k. Or you can have a Volvo EV with a manual key card, a basic stereo, no heated seats, only a basic back up camera, etc.
36k luxury bolt? Ha! This has a budget car interior with a glued on ipad no matter how they spin this. An LT2 trim Bolt EV optioned out was 30k 1-2 years ago and included a legit bose stereo, 360 cam, heated seats and wheel, android auto and such. Way better car inside than this for less money.
He's a long time Volvo owner and lover, and it really shows here because he's making a lot of excuses for this that most people won't accept. Combined with being an ev and the California in him is also showing, as the ev powertrain is being used as an excuse for a lot of the shortcomings, when in reality it's just a cheap made China ev
@@faeinthebay no one is buying this to drive 400 miles per day. This is a charge at home car where moat have lvl2. A non issue. As is the heat pump. They just ruined this car by cost cutting the interior this badly and STILL asking for 36k. Americans need more affordable cars.
I drove both the ex30 and ex90. The Ex90 is beautifully made. Note I have a 2019 XC90 inscription. The 90 is smooth powerful and luxurious. BUT you can feel the weight. And the braking was so eying to get used too. The EX30 also well made powerful and even nimble. It is basically a 2+2 the of car. Would I buy one yes but I like my model 3 but musk is an ass$$ole. The search continues
That's the question I suppose. Will this be treated differently than the even cheaper BMWs, Audis, and Mercedes models that exist (or have existed) in Europe? BMW's selling a ton of FWD 2-series in America and it doesn't seem to have harmed their sales of more expensive models.
Cheap vs value is something people simply don't understand. Buying the cheap car because it's cheap doesn't save you any money if you're buying a new one in 2 years because this one didn't meet your expectations and the one that's 20% more expensive did.
Ok. The heat pump is fine. However the rear leg room is just pathetically tight vs Chevrolet Bolt EUV. Besides Volvo EX30 has a 9 kW vs 11.5 kW internal AC charger level 2 in Chevrolet Bolt.
It's actually a 10.5 kw onboard charger. Legroom is below the Bolt, but the Bolt was never available with AWD which complicates packaging and the EX charges considerably more rapidly at a CCS station.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide AWD shouldn't complicate the packaging THAT much. The normal chevy Bolt had 16.6 ft³, 57 ft³ with seat area. It's in a completely different category when it comes to overall cargo space and packaging despite not being built on a dedicated platform! Also has 6in more combined legroom (according to some online figures) despite the fact the EX30 has a 2in longer wheelbase. The EX30 lack of legroom mainly stems from the fact the platform and maybe Volvos intention was to have a more design-forward car and did not prioritize space/packaging. Let's be honest though, it looks a hell of a lot better than the Bolt. But if you look closely the EX30's A pillar is pushed so far back for such a small car whereas the Bolt is at least 6in more forward. Also as we can clearly see from this video, the EX30 has TONS of underfloor storage even with the rear motor which suggests that's not the primary issue! Cars like the new EV3 are quite a bit more spacious according to international reviews despite having only a 1in wheelbase advantage and 3in overall length advantage. Especially since it will also be available with AWD in the future according to KIA. Either way, like you mentioned they are quite different cars! Especially given the EX30 can do a cross country trip in relative comfort whereas the Bolt is honestly not realistic at all. Also the EX30 is EPA rated for similar range despite having an extra motor and weighing more. Plus 0-60 in 3.3 seconds versus 6.6 for the bolt.
I had a 2022 Polestar 2 for under six months until it went away… Due to non-disclosure agreements I can’t say more. I sincerely warn everyone that Volvos interpretation of Google android automotive is half baked at best. This EX 30 with all of its glitches that Alex notes is a big warning sign, folks.
Unless you are passionate about the 0-60, this mode is making too many compromises for the regular EV buyers. The entry trim levels may be the better choices.
Wow 3.7 is not a bad number. Would have hoped for something closer to 4 given its rwd all the time unless under certain conditons but either way not terrible as i guess
So they're willing to cut functional features like foglights, but put in stupid glass roofs that increase weight and center of gravity. I hate the ev market and I love electric powertrains. Makes converting an old car to electric more appealing by the day. If I had the money I'd convert my old grand cherokee to an ev and not deal with all the horrible design choices automakers are making with evs
@AAutoBuyersGuide a steel roof has even more headroom and doesn't turn the cabin into a greenhouse, causing the ac to run ramped. I know a guy with a model 3 who said the best thing he did was insulate the glass roof because in the summer he no longer has to deal with blasting ac and baking in the sun, and his range actually improved with how much less the ac has to run.
The tariff is included in the price. Apparently Volvo ate the 100% tariff so that pre-orders weren't further delayed, and now that they're switching to European production, the price contains the lower European tariff. But considering the higher cost of labor, I wouldn't be surprised if price hikes come soon.
@@cypvh74I think it’s incorrect as that’s before Biden signing the 100% Chinese car tariff late 2024, and that superseded the import export exemption. I am not sure if this is imported before or after that date
"software defined vehicle" ??? Hmm. Also: Volvo Car USA and Canada reports sales of 138,647 cars for the full year 2024, ... Electrified models-those with a fully electric or plug-in hybrid powertrain-accounted for 35.4 percent of sales during the year We'll see. (The first car my father purchased was a Volvo. That was his last "foreign" car. He's been firmly G.M. since 1962.)
Volvo is an oddity in the USA market, and by that I mean they are one of the few brands on sale in America where America isn't thair largest market, or even their second largest market... We're third. If you think of Volvo that way, their lineup makes total sense vs BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Lexus, etc where N. America is their largest market///
I crap on the Tesla Model Y, but from value proposition it’s way better one than the EX-30. It looks like an IPad from 10 years ago slapped on the dash.
2:39 "Their first software defined vehicle" 19:47 "This software does not come across as quite ready yet" Yup, that's software defined all right! 🤣I don't know who's asking for all these garbage software features that never work and just artificially inflate the price of the car. (And make it more dangerous to drive cause all the features are on a touch screen). Also that random light strip on the dashboard at 16:55, why? Wouldn't it be better and more useful to get rid of that and put the lights on the vanity mirrors? Who is making these decisions???
if you told me that the lexus interior is of same quality/price of this Volvo/Polestar, ill spend my money on the one that at least looks premium. The gloss buttons all over the steering wheel is definitely another turn off.
No Android Auto yet, however, Volvo just enabled Android Auto on the entire 40/60/90 lineup that's running the Google OS (Android Automotive) so it is likely coming to EX30 eventually. This cadence matches what we've seen elsewhere as among new car buyers iOS has a significantly higher market penetration. Depending on the survey, the demographic that buys new cars seems to skew 70/80% iOS vs 20-30% Android which is why development seems to focus on CarPlay.
Don't care where it's made at all, I will always buy the cheapest option for my given needs. The more money I save, the more I can spend traveling and NOT working, rofl.
Volvo seems to be losing its focus and way. This doesn't appear to be practical nor especially comfortable. I don't know who their targeted consumer is. Seem like a city runabout to me. In that configuration 0-60 in under 4 seconds is way more brag than drag. The glass roof with no shade seems like brain burner. Its cute but lacks a practical side and as such has no appeal to me whatsoever. An updated 1800E would be more appealing
It's hard to say that when you look at the sales, this is the second best selling electric car in Europe, even out selling the entire Tesla lineup except one.
I spoke to the Volvo engineers about this, and it seems that the position at least for now is that nobody and no animal should ever be left in a vehicle unattended, so they seem to have a philosophical issue with dog mode.
Don't let the good quality name Volvo fool you, its still a Chinese EV car with poor Chinese build quality. Buy a quality Tesla made in the USA and you'll be very happy you did especially in the long run!!! Bet you lots of cheddar Alex will get rid of this car in less than 2 years!!
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Note: the braking score should be 118ft, not 123.
Somehow I knew the EX90, EX30, and Polestar 3 look super similar, but not until I parked them all together did I scratch my head and go "wow, it's like some just scaled the photo up/down" LOL
Before you detractors freak out about this being made in China, need I remind you that your $1000 phone, $3000 gaming laptop, $3000 fridge, $2000 OLED TV etc etc etc are all made in China too.
What if my phone was only $30, my computer was $700 and made in Taiwan, and my fridge and TV were both made in Korea? :P
@ I’m pretty sure there are lots of parts for those things from China
But it’s still not made in USA
@ALMX5DP And it's still not USA 😂
@ is it necessarily bad for something not to be made here?
Yes and no because Murica always think it's better than China while its population is lacking skills in many aspects and work ethical, and Murican brands can't even compete with Chinese brands in term of technologies and software, so it decided to ban those brands instead of learning from them to improve itself which shows how big Murican ego is!
This is the most helpful rundown of the EX30 in the US, thanks Alex. My questions, if you don’t mind answering over the course of your lease:
1) How easy is it to change the in-cabin air filter? In Teslas I’ve come across, that is an arduous piece to switch out as it requires removing trim pieces.
2) Are RFID cards any less safe or more “hackable” than a traditional key fob?
3) How is the efficiency of the machine over the course of your lease?
Thanks again, and keep up the great work. So informative-and the podcast is a wonderful addition to the channel!
RFID cards "seem" more secure because of their very very very short range, but they seem like a pain in the butt to be honest and ever car that uses them seems to have faint scratches all over the place where you have to tap the card.
Good luck with the RFID cards… Imagine that in your pocket or somewhere where it’s not connected to your hearing and remembering.
Volvo charged me $500 for a traditional key fob. Which one would you rather replace?
That’s a good point. $500 is nutso expensive.
Thanks Alex, the headlight preview is important, I wish this became standard of all us road trippers or Rural dwellers!
I am thinking of trying to do this on everything, we just need to get the exposure settings dialed in so that things are consistent.
Unless you need very small car, I’d recommend an Equinox EV. For the same price, you can actually carry 5 adults and take the family on a trip. I also have a Bolt EUV and an owned a 2019 Bolt EV before I purchased the EUV. My Equinox EV is a recent 2-yr 12,000 per yr lease. Even with the LG fiasco, Chevy and GM have been good to me.
Unless you absolutely need an ev, a gas equinox will do this for 20k less
Kudos for stating the presence of a heat pump on this EV!!! Other car reviewers should take note!!
Now that a nice sized vehicle!
I cancelled my order since they are only bringing in the 4wd version. I wanted the 35k model.
I thought it was just delayed, not cancelled?
@@1997nickdelayed means canceled until it shows up. I'm tired of these evs rolling out in top trims only and possibly years later showing up cheap
gorgeous car....best of luck!
The exterior is handsome. The interior is absolutely cheap and awful. This thing is way too expensive.
$47K? That's a non-starter for me in such a tiny, compromised vehicle. Plus, I am just not ready for how weird this car functions. Also, I travel in remote areas where owning an electric only vehicle with such limited range, especially in the cold northern winters, is absolutely not an option.
We got our EX30 at the same place, think I saw yours with the SOLD sign, we got a white one with the Pine interior theme. Regarding the interior "garage floor" pattern type, there are a total of 4 different interior themes you can get and looks like your got Breeze which has that garage type pattern. The other 3 do not, Pine, Mist and Indigo. Definitely some quirks and I HATE the key card thing, crazy that is what we have until they enable phone access. We did get just one key "fob" but without that, my goodness.
So a little secret for you from someone who worked at VCC. This is not a Volvo, this is a Geely with Volvo badge and really cheap interior.
The reason this thing exists is that VCC had no vehicle to sell apart from ageing SPA1 and CMA vehicles (all the 40/60 and 90). They were supposed to be replaced by vehicles based on SPA2 but the platform turned to be so bad there will be only 2 vehicles based on that (EX90 and PS3). It was obvious in 2020 VCC had nothing as SPA3 will take a few years to develop.
On top of that XC90/EX90 based on SPA2 was being badly delayed (it was scheduled for SOP 22w13 so 3 years ago and starting just now) so it was clear they needed something quick.
Geely comes to the rescue with the SEA platform already used for Smart 1 and Zeekr X (much better cars BTW). Hello project V216.
VCC did not work on EX30, Geely CN did. That’s why you should not be surprised about some design and functionality decisions, VCC did not make them. Chinese engineers based in CN did.
This a very successful stop gap product which came as a great surprise to VCC.
Next is EX30 Cross country, same car with slightly higher ride hight
Duh. All over the internet
@ correct, that’s why I’m not revealing any proper secrets. Only publicly known info which is clearly not a common knowledge.
But it’s astonishing so many ppl still fall for “what a nice Volvo” scam.
Influencers and reviews are doing a good job pushing that narrative
Dont know if I could deal with a terrible audio system and no gauge cluster.
I do not really care about the car (or EVs in general). I am much more excited at the fact that Alex is 10k away from 1M subs!! It is about time!
Thank you for the honest comment on its HK sound system.
Thanks for the review! I will watch to see if weaknesses are addressed with updates. (1) no tesla supercharging (2) no phone key (3) no 1-pedal drive in performance mode & (4) software issues.
I’m not a fan of the minimalist design and the interior looks cheap to me. I don’t understand Volvo sticking to climate controls that require a tap to open up another menu rather than than having the basic temperature and fan controls all accessible. I like instrument clusters. It looks nice on the outside and has impressive horsepower but is an easy no for me even if I wanted a car that small. It’s kind of a head scratcher to me for the price.
I’m surprised Volvo didn’t consult with you beforehand.
I very much agree. It feels like this car has been cost cut to the bone, but even a Chevy Bolt had the sense to put normal buttons. I guess people who prefer automatic controls won't mind, while people like me who tweak the controls often will be more distracted.
Don't worry though, it has a glass roof!
Gosh, please stop copying Tesla model 3 and Y single ipad screen. It’s not a feature, it’s a freaking cost cutting measure.
But that's why it's here and how they were advertising for the ~$35k price
@@1997nickuntil there's 35k models on dealer lots, it's a 46k car. Don't buy into the marketing bullshit that is outright fraud and they should be sued over
No the screens are very nice snappy and easy to use. Welcome to the 21st century
The base price is 46k until the other models are actually on dealer lots. Just like the first year of the silverado was only 100k and now we get the fleet model 50k trucks, the equinox is now available for 34k vs its original 42k, and tesla took YEARS to get the base model 3 out for the promised price
The difference here is that the base model is already in production, just not for this market.
@AAutoBuyersGuide and a base golf is also in production, but in America it starts at 31k with the gti. In 2020, the base price of a regular golf was 24k, while a gti was 29k. You don't see me saying a golf starts at 24k in 2025, as it's not sold here. Until it's sold here, the price is irrelevant.
@@AAutoBuyersGuideit’s going to be at least a couple years, if ever.
Great review. Love my 2023 Volvo C40 twin motor. Geely has done a great job of combining the best elements of Chinese and Scandinavian tech & design, unlike Ford + Volvo and GM + Saab.
Geely has done a great job of driving Volvo into the ground. If it wasn't for ccp money keeping the brand afloat it would have dissapeared years ago
@@james2042 That's even better! The CCP subsidizing my EV! Sure, they can have my data about which Walmart I shop at.
@@james2042then what’s your beef of keeping it surviving as a brand vs it wiltering on its own?
@muskistutter because we have "positive" reviews like this on a product that won't last a year becsuse of the disconnect between what governments want and what people want
Being in Spain I bought the sister car Smart #3 RWD last May. Have 10k km and very pleased with it. Checked the EX30 before deciding on the #3 due to the cramped interior and sparse interior. IMO, my Smart, as well as most other chinese cars available here, their interior looks far more upscale in both materials and features. For example, my car has full Beats audio, HUD, much nicer seats and appointments in the cabin etc with the same drivetrain. Software different and now have quick disconnect for safety warnings which are indeed vey annoying.
I'm 6'5". My wife is average height, but our son and our grandchildren take after me.
We don't fit the EX30... or vice versa.It's a nice car... but it's a small car.
That Speckled Trim Reminds Me Of 'A 50's Formica Kitchen Table !!!!! LOL, LOL !!!!!
As always: great video. This should be compared to the Kia EV3, however, not the Niro EV.
If only the EV3 was sold here... Rumor mill points to it still being 18 ish months away.
I cancelled my preorder from Volvo because it was taking way too long and I didn't want the twin motor at launch. Went with a 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL AWD because I couldn't get a RWD version where I live. Revisit this in 24 months when software issues can be worked out. Another choice is the Rivian R3 though.
BEAUTIFUL!! 💯
Great video, excited for the cross country version
Please test the lane centering feature, I wonder if they have improve that since the XC40 Recharge. It would wonder to every exit if you are in the right lane on a highway, not good.
I think the lane centering is worse, but I hate lane centering anyway... sol,...
i think it’s time to put more detail on how good is the driving assistant is, especially for more premium brands.
Appreciate that the important buttons are repeated outside the infotainment but then I question why they need to be in the infotainment at all
I was hyped when the EX30 first was announced, but after seeing the EV3 I just can’t justify the price. I’ve also heard quality and software are buggy, but that’s somewhat expected for a first year new model.
I'm EXACTLY in your position. The EV3 just seems more impressive in all the areas an actual AVERAGE buyer will care about. More cargo space, a lot more legroom, it's more efficient, has way more range from its massive 81.4kwh gross battery, offers VtoL capability I believe, interior seems higher quality and a lot more luxurious with 3 screens, offers an opening sunroof, and should cost less. Also charging performance should be almost identical with it doing 10-80% in 31min.
The only downside is it's not nearly as fast or sporty. Currently only FWD 200hp models are being made and they do 0-60 in 6.75 seconds or so. It's plenty quick but the EX30 doing 0-60 in 3.3s for 45-50K is absurdly impressive. Luckily KIA said an AWD/GT model should arrive and do 0-60 in under 5 seconds which is plenty quick if it happens.
Either way I really hope KIA can get the EV3 long range to America and make the heat pump at least optional on all trims if not standard for 35K or less. Equinox EV gets 200hp, 85kwh battery usable I think, 319 miles of range, and good tech. EV3 has to beat all that!
Ehh it should be a hot seller. 3.3 seconds 0-60 and costing mid 40s and decent range? Not bad at all. But I do completely agree it's not as quality of a product as I would have hoped. Nothing like the xc40/60/90 models
I like the look of the EV3, but even when it comes out in around 18 months for North America, it won't have the performance that we find in this. Range should be better, pricing should be somewhat similar, but it's hard to value brand... how much is the Volvo logo worth? How much is the rear wheel drive dynamic worth? And how much discount should you apply to the cheesy sound system?
@@AAutoBuyersGuide EV3 will be a lot cheaper than the EX30 especially after incentives since it'll be built in Mexico. And know how aggressive Hyundai/Kia are with lease deals, will probably only be around $200/mo like their other EV deals
@@GlitterGuru well in terms of MSRP I don't think it will be "significantly cheaper" tbh. Base models will likely be around 35K and top end AWD/GT models around 45K+. Obviously we will have to see
I love the visual and lighting design, but I feel that Volvo made too many ergonomics and UX compromises for me to be interested
Seems the base EX30 is competitive. I would think that the software & other bits will be better baked in about a year. Aside from the price, I don’t know why the Lexus UX is out there. Very low value to price ratio. But if you want an Lexus…
The base model is the 46k model until the others hit dealer lots. Do not buy into marketing
Great review. I was curious about the audio quality of that sound bar. I agree the wool blend interior seems much more premium. Volvo made an odd choice with the epoxy-look panels for the blue interior.
At least in videos & pics, I like it. Seems clean, simple & durable.
The sound is great. Listened to it this past weekend.
The performance, size, and price make me curious how effectively an extra sporty version could compete with the Golf R. Like drop the ride height with stiffer adaptive springs/dampers & give it a set of sticky performance tires alongside a rear eLSD and bam you have an electric hot hatch Golf-R rival for a similar price.
You would really want to have an EV to take the base model of this thing. You can get plenty of well equipped, efficient, and larger Japanese and Korean ICE vehicles for $35k. Or you can have a Volvo EV with a manual key card, a basic stereo, no heated seats, only a basic back up camera, etc.
36k luxury bolt? Ha! This has a budget car interior with a glued on ipad no matter how they spin this. An LT2 trim Bolt EV optioned out was 30k 1-2 years ago and included a legit bose stereo, 360 cam, heated seats and wheel, android auto and such. Way better car inside than this for less money.
To be fair to the Volvo, it has some advantages including faster charging speed and a heat pump.
He's a long time Volvo owner and lover, and it really shows here because he's making a lot of excuses for this that most people won't accept. Combined with being an ev and the California in him is also showing, as the ev powertrain is being used as an excuse for a lot of the shortcomings, when in reality it's just a cheap made China ev
@@faeinthebay no one is buying this to drive 400 miles per day. This is a charge at home car where moat have lvl2. A non issue. As is the heat pump. They just ruined this car by cost cutting the interior this badly and STILL asking for 36k. Americans need more affordable cars.
I’d love to see that key fob that came with the EX30!
It's fugly, we'll show it in another episode
I drove both the ex30 and ex90. The Ex90 is beautifully made. Note I have a 2019 XC90 inscription. The 90 is smooth powerful and luxurious. BUT you can feel the weight. And the braking was so eying to get used too. The EX30 also well made powerful and even nimble. It is basically a 2+2 the of car. Would I buy one yes but I like my model 3 but musk is an ass$$ole. The search continues
Just looks so cheap inside, other reskins landed more premium. And then there’s the brand damage, SMH.
That's the question I suppose. Will this be treated differently than the even cheaper BMWs, Audis, and Mercedes models that exist (or have existed) in Europe? BMW's selling a ton of FWD 2-series in America and it doesn't seem to have harmed their sales of more expensive models.
Came out way more expensive than the hype lead many to believe it would be.
Great review as usual. First rate! The cheapness of this vehicle comes through. $47 K? I can get a GTI for that price.
True, but a GTI would be FWD and take almost twice as long to get to 60 LOL
Yeah gti not ev. See you at the gas stations. Not
I think despite the lower cost of the EX30, the XC40 electric (recharge) is a better buy.
Cheap vs value is something people simply don't understand. Buying the cheap car because it's cheap doesn't save you any money if you're buying a new one in 2 years because this one didn't meet your expectations and the one that's 20% more expensive did.
Ok. The heat pump is fine. However the rear leg room is just pathetically tight vs Chevrolet Bolt EUV. Besides Volvo EX30 has a 9 kW vs 11.5 kW internal AC charger level 2 in Chevrolet Bolt.
It's actually a 10.5 kw onboard charger. Legroom is below the Bolt, but the Bolt was never available with AWD which complicates packaging and the EX charges considerably more rapidly at a CCS station.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide the new Bolt is coming and will give china a run for its money.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide AWD shouldn't complicate the packaging THAT much. The normal chevy Bolt had 16.6 ft³, 57 ft³ with seat area. It's in a completely different category when it comes to overall cargo space and packaging despite not being built on a dedicated platform! Also has 6in more combined legroom (according to some online figures) despite the fact the EX30 has a 2in longer wheelbase. The EX30 lack of legroom mainly stems from the fact the platform and maybe Volvos intention was to have a more design-forward car and did not prioritize space/packaging. Let's be honest though, it looks a hell of a lot better than the Bolt. But if you look closely the EX30's A pillar is pushed so far back for such a small car whereas the Bolt is at least 6in more forward. Also as we can clearly see from this video, the EX30 has TONS of underfloor storage even with the rear motor which suggests that's not the primary issue! Cars like the new EV3 are quite a bit more spacious according to international reviews despite having only a 1in wheelbase advantage and 3in overall length advantage. Especially since it will also be available with AWD in the future according to KIA.
Either way, like you mentioned they are quite different cars! Especially given the EX30 can do a cross country trip in relative comfort whereas the Bolt is honestly not realistic at all. Also the EX30 is EPA rated for similar range despite having an extra motor and weighing more. Plus 0-60 in 3.3 seconds versus 6.6 for the bolt.
I had a 2022 Polestar 2 for under six months until it went away… Due to non-disclosure agreements I can’t say more. I sincerely warn everyone that Volvos interpretation of Google android automotive is half baked at best. This EX 30 with all of its glitches that Alex notes is a big warning sign, folks.
Unless you are passionate about the 0-60, this mode is making too many compromises for the regular EV buyers. The entry trim levels may be the better choices.
All my PC monitors are horizontal; I can't abide vertical. Deal killer
Doofus
How many cars do you own Alex?
Personally, two, only one is street legal however. The company owns several for testing.
Wow 3.7 is not a bad number. Would have hoped for something closer to 4 given its rwd all the time unless under certain conditons but either way not terrible as i guess
I haven't seen any Chinese made models in the U.S.. Does the VIN start with L(China) or YV(Belgium)?
Lost me at "the back seat is tight".
So they're willing to cut functional features like foglights, but put in stupid glass roofs that increase weight and center of gravity. I hate the ev market and I love electric powertrains. Makes converting an old car to electric more appealing by the day. If I had the money I'd convert my old grand cherokee to an ev and not deal with all the horrible design choices automakers are making with evs
The glass roof likely has a very minor weight penalty, the reason that we find them in many electric vehicles is simply because it improves headroom.
@AAutoBuyersGuide a steel roof has even more headroom and doesn't turn the cabin into a greenhouse, causing the ac to run ramped.
I know a guy with a model 3 who said the best thing he did was insulate the glass roof because in the summer he no longer has to deal with blasting ac and baking in the sun, and his range actually improved with how much less the ac has to run.
You probably could not even change the oil in Your Cherokee must lest convert it.
46 minutes for a car review is insane. Talk about thorough.
I guess you haven't seen our of spec reviews yet huh? It's like a movie. 😊
And all he does is give 46 minutes worth of reason not to buy it
@ Eh, but it's a thorough reason not to buy it!
Is the $46k msrp already included all the tariff? 30 or 100%? If 100% it’s selling it for $23k? How do they make money?
The tariff is included in the price. Apparently Volvo ate the 100% tariff so that pre-orders weren't further delayed, and now that they're switching to European production, the price contains the lower European tariff. But considering the higher cost of labor, I wouldn't be surprised if price hikes come soon.
Since Volvo produces and exports cars from the US, they get some relief on tariffs. It’s a dollar for dollar credit.
@@cypvh74I think it’s incorrect as that’s before Biden signing the 100% Chinese car tariff late 2024, and that superseded the import export exemption. I am not sure if this is imported before or after that date
"software defined vehicle" ??? Hmm. Also:
Volvo Car USA and Canada reports sales of 138,647 cars for the full year 2024, ... Electrified models-those with a fully electric or plug-in hybrid powertrain-accounted for 35.4 percent of sales during the year
We'll see. (The first car my father purchased was a Volvo. That was his last "foreign" car. He's been firmly G.M. since 1962.)
Volvo is an oddity in the USA market, and by that I mean they are one of the few brands on sale in America where America isn't thair largest market, or even their second largest market... We're third. If you think of Volvo that way, their lineup makes total sense vs BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Lexus, etc where N. America is their largest market///
It took Volvo a decade to recover from PSTD of being abused by Ford :)
I crap on the Tesla Model Y, but from value proposition it’s way better one than the EX-30. It looks like an IPad from 10 years ago slapped on the dash.
Really sad when a tesla is actually better designed, when they're the gold standard for worst designed interiors
2:39 "Their first software defined vehicle"
19:47 "This software does not come across as quite ready yet"
Yup, that's software defined all right! 🤣I don't know who's asking for all these garbage software features that never work and just artificially inflate the price of the car. (And make it more dangerous to drive cause all the features are on a touch screen).
Also that random light strip on the dashboard at 16:55, why? Wouldn't it be better and more useful to get rid of that and put the lights on the vanity mirrors? Who is making these decisions???
if you told me that the lexus interior is of same quality/price of this Volvo/Polestar, ill spend my money on the one that at least looks premium. The gloss buttons all over the steering wheel is definitely another turn off.
VW should bring the ID3 to North America.
The iPad glued to the dash ruins it for me. Granted I’d probably find he car too small anyway.
Great that’s why there are MANY cars to choice from comrade
47k for half a car
29:06 uh Alex the braking score is wrong.
So no Android Auto? Or we only care about Apple?
No Android Auto yet, however, Volvo just enabled Android Auto on the entire 40/60/90 lineup that's running the Google OS (Android Automotive) so it is likely coming to EX30 eventually. This cadence matches what we've seen elsewhere as among new car buyers iOS has a significantly higher market penetration. Depending on the survey, the demographic that buys new cars seems to skew 70/80% iOS vs 20-30% Android which is why development seems to focus on CarPlay.
This video will be fascinating to the hundreds and hundreds of people who actually buy one.
Exactly. It won't last more than 2 model years. I wouldn't be suprised if it doesn't make it to 2026
Don't care where it's made at all, I will always buy the cheapest option for my given needs. The more money I save, the more I can spend traveling and NOT working, rofl.
Good looking car. Nice option at a reasonable starting price.
Faster than a GTI? Pffft faster and a Golf R. By a mile!
But you didn't answer the most important question...
Would you do a track day in one?
Volvo seems to be losing its focus and way. This doesn't appear to be practical nor especially comfortable. I don't know who their targeted consumer is. Seem like a city runabout to me. In that configuration 0-60 in under 4 seconds is way more brag than drag. The glass roof with no shade seems like brain burner.
Its cute but lacks a practical side and as such has no appeal to me whatsoever. An updated 1800E would be more appealing
It's hard to say that when you look at the sales, this is the second best selling electric car in Europe, even out selling the entire Tesla lineup except one.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide It's hard to argue with those sales figures. Obviously a lot of folks have a different opinion than I do.
This going to get Trump’s incoming tariffs on top of the price, expect at least $10K
This might be the worst interior I've seen in any car made in the last 40 or so years. Lost all interest after watching this.
Waaay too small and too expensive - - - good luck selling these things
You say Volvo wrong, it's not Vall-vo
no air vent and no dog mode, no go for us. we cancelled our reservation. unfortunate.
I spoke to the Volvo engineers about this, and it seems that the position at least for now is that nobody and no animal should ever be left in a vehicle unattended, so they seem to have a philosophical issue with dog mode.
Personally I agree with the Volvo engineers. Thanks for doing the extra digging and finding out what Volvo had to say on that topic.
I like it, but Kia is cooking now EV3 comin and looks better n better
So this is the closest thing to ID3 GTX in the USA.
Pretty much.
@@AAutoBuyersGuideas a GTI owner, I LOVE this 🤘🤘🤘
VW should bring the ID 3 to North America.
Renault should come to North America too.
We really just don’t get much choice here, which is weird
2nd
Couldn't finish the video. The interior is hideous
Too small and not too cheap for the US.
Small for Murican standards because you guys are wasting to much resources
Some people prefer small. I’d love this size in the city compared to my monster Ioniq 5
This is actually what we need... Just needs to be 8k cheaper lol
Don't let the good quality name Volvo fool you, its still a Chinese EV car with poor Chinese build quality. Buy a quality Tesla made in the USA and you'll be very happy you did especially in the long run!!! Bet you lots of cheddar Alex will get rid of this car in less than 2 years!!
Alex please slow down on the pure electric vehicles. You have the California knows best mentally!
Watch someone else then? What a weird comment.
We test new cars, and if you haven't noticed, nearly half of new car releases lately have been electric.
Too bad it is an EV and not a hybrid. Hard pass. Chinese junk.
Hybrids are complex and will be prone to failure.
@@dsan2509 Data doesn't support your assertion. They are more reliable than both PHEVs and EVs.