For over 60k you want the back seats to be useable, even if you dont have kids. It really is a 2 person car who might use the back every now and then. You have the kona, atto3, megane etc as better choices. Like the megane this has great reviews across europe. And the europeans prefer the mid spec also.
Thank you for your review. The first Australian based one I’ve seen. I’m taking delivery of mine next week and have gone for the dual motor version. I have recently also test driven the car. I prefer it over other EVs I’ve tested mainly for its compact size, suspension setup and power delivery which to me feels more like a traditional car which suits me personally. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel its weight as much as other EVs that I tested. Anyway, just my 2c worth. Nice review.
Really like this little Volvo. I saw one the other day in this yellow and it looked incredibly good. Disappointing that they forgot to check people fit in the rear before creating the metalwork though... Would be useful, when there's just a touchscreen in a car, if you could tell us/demo how well the voice activated stuff makes up for it, or doesn't.
I ordered the Ultra twin motor performance modal, as in the UK, it’s only £3k to upgrade to the dual motor variant which is quicker than a Model Y Performance.
Hmmm... I'm skeptical - EX30 twin motor 315kw and 1943kg. Model Y Performance 393kw and 1997kg. The low 0-60mph (or 0-100km/h) could be a result of a higher reduction gear but physics is physics, I'm wondering what does overtaking and 1/4 mile look like? Don't get me wrong still super quick but what does it look like overall? As an example of overhyped 0-100 times, The BYD Seal Performance claims 0-100kmh of 3.8s vs a Tesla Model 3 LR of 4.4 sec that is a very considerable difference, yes the BYD takes off slightly quicker but is caught by the model 3 by the 400m mark and is considerably slower from 80km/h-120km for overtaking.
"Volvo's middle name is safety". Then they hide most of the controls in a multi-menu touchscreen. Interesting that the Google connected services is for 5 years only. I assume a subscription service after that?
Why do these car companies insist on not having a speedo. It’s just a really bad idea. Speed is one of those bits of information you need on a regular basis…. Why put it outside of your eyes view. I had a 1968 mini with the speedo in the middle too- hated it. This isn’t a new idea…. It’s just cheap, minis were cheap- I expect more from $70k+ car.
Sole and major reason to avoid such cars. IM not saying avoid evs but cars that don’t offer such a basic thing because it’s a safety hazard. On a wet slippery twisted toad the last thing you need is to get your eyes off the road to check the damn speed
I used to own a 1968 Mini as well - loved it! I got used to the speedo being in the middle quite easily, as I now do with my Model Y. It's not a bad idea at all, as long as you can clearly see it. There's no difference to moving your eyes off the road either below the top of the steering wheel or to the left of it. Muscle memory kicks in and it's second nature. But I know it's not to everyone's taste which is fine.
This car is ideal for us (retired) which will mainly be used by my wife for shopping, visiting the kids and me going to tennis etc. Our grandchildren are still very young and they will be the only "usual" passangers at the back, so certainly big enough. I test drove the car a couple of times (I am not a millennial IT guru) and did not find using the touch screen difficult at all so I can't see us having any difficulty in getting used to it, including the speedo which has large numbers on the side closer to the driver. It also drives as good or better than any other car I drove (and I drove a lot of hire cars through my work). We just can't wait to take delivery of it.
Rip off. Pricing started at 34,950 USD and Australia again we get absolutely reemed. I was really looking forward to this car but for that price, hard pass.
Hey Matt, tossing up between this ex30 (have a preorder + test drove and liked) and a polestar 2 standard. The polester just got a price cut in standard pack until eofy which now makes it cheaper on-road. Given this which would you pick?
Thanks for the question. The key thing is how much space you need. If you can make the Volvo’s size work, and you don’t have kids, it could be a great car. But the Polestar is a bigger vehicle with a more spacious back seat and bigger boot, which makes it more practical. I have a kid and dogs, so it would have to be the Polestar out of those.
Thanks for the input Matt, yes I'm in-between you as have a kid on the way, but this would be a second car as already have a Kluger which has the space, so could be handy but not crirical. So a tough choice. Volvo from a brand POV also seems like a more stable choice but you do get more car for the money with polestar right now.
Enough with the rear wd/ front wd crap. 100’s of millions of people have driven front drive cars since the mid 20th century and neither notice or care. Only petrol heads and enthusiast’s really care and the rest of us just get on with life.
I looked at one of these (the dual motor variant) via leasing - current Australian Gov incentives mean EV and PHEV cars have the fringe benefits tax waived (until april next year I think, not really sure on that one). What I decided in the end is that I couldn't live with just a touch screen for everything. One, I'm not sure faffing with sub-menus while driving is all that safe. Two, my eyes aren't what they used to be and I don't really want to have to wear reading glasses perched on the end of my nose to see, for example, how far I have left until a recharge. Three, the charging infrastructure around where I live is not great. Looks like a nice little car though, and I applaude Volvo for making an EV that is in the "very nearly affordable" range.
You’re right about the incentives but the FBT exemption is only applicable for PHEVS until 30 March next year, while EVs will continue with it until further notice. One thing I failed to mention in more detail, and which may chance your ideas on faffing with menus, is that the voice control system has a lot of potential for adjustments here.
@therightcar Ah, thanks for that. Yes, they did say get a phev before next April, now you mention it. The google voice control is definitely something I didn't take into account, and if it's solid, it would remove one of my major reservations.
Test drove one yesterday, incredible car. Testing a BYD ATTO 3 tomorrow, as from the reviews I've seen - the other option (Kona) loses out to the Atto.
@therightcar went volvo. The drive of the byd wasn't even close. Also I know people like the parking assistance in the BYD but to me the forward parking was extremely bad.
Why do you kept saying it luxury or premium ? Market positioning ? To be honest in part of Asia ( China ) this specs is just normal , why do we have to pay more ? Option this option that ? Why China can make good quality car with bells and whistle with good pricing ? We as a customer have to pay more for less ! Why do we have to accept our fate year over year ! If it’s only market positioning or branding and it still made in China and we still have to pay more , might as well buy the Chinese car ! They can sell series 3 electrified bnw for 24k why can’t we have that ? 60-70 k if it’s made in Sweden …
If you love China so much why don’t you move there? Seriously. Brands have to maintain a presence and position that is relevant to market consistency and competition. You can’t expect Volvo to suddenly become a Chery rival because specs. There’s a lot more to a car than a simple product - it’s about the market presence, dealership network and ownership experience.
It is competitive in comparison to other European luxury brands. I am hesitant to consider due to the NMC battery, small backseat and small boot. The incoming Kia EV5 might shake the market. Byd Seal, as a sedan, offer better LFP battery and more backseat/boot space.
I would not choose any of the alternatives. None of them would be able to tow a runabout boat. The EX-30 would tow a boat and a small camper trailer or light caravan. If you want to attach a tow bar to a car this is the one to do it.
Seems like a great car and quite like the design. Have been driving a Tesla for over a year, so everything operated via the screen isn’t an issue. You do get used to it very quickly. This is one nice looking car.
Agreed, I also drive a Tesla. The latest software update increased the text size for the speedo, it’s very easily seen, and the centre screen is very user friendly.
@@gregturner_awod very true. It’s made a world of difference, and whilst I get it can throw people off, many knock it before they’ve tried it … once you try it, works very well and also there are voice commands if you really don’t want to go into screen (I only learnt ‘increase fan speed’ last week) 🤣🤣🤣
@@gregturner_awodBut Greg, it begs the question as why did Tesla previously REDUCE the speedometer font in the first place (as well as reducing the boldness of font?) I’ve noticed that Tesla have, since the introduction of the Model 3 in 2017, always played around with the speedometer font size, boldness and location on the screen !!! Why ?? Originally it was quite large AND bold, but located about a quarter of the way in from the edge of the screen… Then they reduced the font size and re-located it right into the top right hand corner of the screen (for RHD markets like Australia) Then they reduced the BOLDNESS and the SIZE, as if Tesla didn’t want you to see your speed clearly !!😳😳 Why, just why ?? Why all the fart-arsing around, Tesla ?? Just make the speedometer a really, really large, bold font in the top corner, and JUST LEAVE IT THERE, so you can see it out of the corner of your eye…. Please Elon…..it’s NOT rocket science 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️ BTW, I’ve driven the Model 3 on a number of occasions, and could never get used to the lack of drivers’ instrument binnacle.. I will never, ever buy a vehicle without one - it just shows the CONTEMPT that a vehicle manufacturer has for it’s customers by removing such an crucial inclusion. And to those that say it’s a useful cost saving measure? Rubbish, I say! If that were true, WHY did Tesla ADD to the cost of the updated model 3 by introducing an expensive screen in the rear of the vehicle??? A screen that is USELESS to a huge number of Model 3 owners, since they rarely have anyone in the rear… I’m sure 99% of M3 owners would prefer that money spent on a nice driver’s display, or at the very least a windscreen HUD.
@@Nicholas.T You’re entitled to your view, expressed at extraordinary length with memes, and then speciously saying you’re speaking on behalf of “a huge number” of Tesla Model 3 owners? Tesla drivers do have kids and back seat passengers. I think you simply don’t like EV’s. I do.
How is this either "affordable" or "luxury"? All of the typical luxury cabin features have been stripped out, it starts at $68k drive away for the base single motor model and almost $80k for the twin motor with the upgraded 'ultimate' package and the car is very compact - about the same size as the VW T-Roc or Yaris Cross, much smaller for example than a Toyota Corolla Cross.
08:16.... look, it's all stuff you get used to..... Hardly a big sell. I'm test driving and EX30 unlimited soon. But I feel like Volvo just wanted to save pennies by removing dials and knobs
Ha, it’s not the first brand to remove tactile controls at the expense of usability. But it is something a buyer should be mindful of, as it’s really not going to be ideal for some.
Lots of clever swedish design but a lot of cost cutting in other areas which is a real shame. That has to be one of the thickest Volvo front seats in recent memory?
No speedo in front of the driver or HUD. Big glass roof with no cover (I don’t understand why manufacturers think glass roofs will easily translate to Australia. They make the car an oven on most days even with darkened glass.) No VTL or VTH, this should be standard on all EV,s. Not even trim under the bonnet even though it appears to have been designed for it. The shortcomings in isolation would not have been deal breakers as there is much to like about this car and I admit I was looking forward to its arrival as I will soon be in the market for a smallish ev but too many things I’m not prepared to compromise with especially with the number of ev,s coming to the market shortly and the number already here. We will soon be spoilt for choice so no need to take what we don’t want. A shame because one of my favourite cars was a Volvo some years ago. I really liked it.
@@therightcar True but that’s why I used the nominative pronoun ‘i’ through much of my statements. I was only speaking for myself for the most part. I’m quite sure your suppliers of test vehicles would understand that.
I was thinking the same thing about the roof. I went to my local dealership today to check out this car. It was a hot day. The seat was burning the back of my arms. The air con took a while to cool the car down. The salesperson said you can buy a shade but they had none there to show. Found one on ebay but it looks crap and fiddly to clip on and take off. Not sure why they couldn't design a retractable shade. You can go for the Plus, which apparently has no panoramic roof. Back seat passengers may feel more cramped though. They had no Plus models in the showroom, so I couldn't compare.
Smart for Volvo to avoid EX30 tariffs in the US by exporting EX90s. I cancelled my reservation for the EX30. In the end, the brand target market of safety and design isn't the best fit for me, which instead is quirky, fun to drive (ie MINI Countryman SE). I am bullish on the BMW/MINI brands and sustainability strategies, they've got time in EV since the i3 (2013?), 8 EVs depending on the market and Neue Klasse next year.
Not looking very luxury compared to the Kia EV3. It has room for the passengers, room for your luggage, buttons, a heads up display and significantly more range with the larger battery version.
I like the warranty and service interval & very low service costs. Not sure about the all the instruments/data (speed etc) not being right in front of you. All data being displayed on the Touch pad is just too Tesla for me and I REFUSE to buy a Tesla because of that. For my money the entry level is just fine when compared with ICE. A definite contender.
A nicely designed small Volvo EV, this one built in China, and as a small but powerful EV looks great. The software looks good, and the internal design looks excellent. The gear selector has the same functionality as past Tesla Model 3’s and current Model Y’s. A great two seater, perhaps small kids in the back. I’d love it as a second car. Mid spec is certainly the way to go, as said in the review, and what I like is unlike the XC40 Recharge which was originally designed as an ICE vehicle this was designed ground up as an EV. I love to free servicing you described, well done Volvo! An excellent and comprehensive review as always of an interesting new EV.
I can't find any info on whether the car has a heat pump in Oz, or just a PTC heater. Long drives on cold days can suck a lot of juice with just PTC. Its the problem I have with all the current KIA EVs. At least the new Kona does have one.
Going down the Tesla's path of not having a speedo or HUD for the speed is a big let down. Drivers should not need to get distract because they need to check the speed.
I have a 21 volvo V60cc- long time Volvo fan since my 240. Keen to test drive it, but worried about the space in the boot and back seat. Appreciate the awesome review 👌🏻
It's a Geely wearing a Volvo badge, so the "premium" branding is skin deep. The requirement to use the central screen to monitor speed is a safety drawback, and the use of a touchscreen to do everything from climate control to side mirror adjustments would be... frustrating. At 1.8 tonnes, the EX30 weighs 120kg more than a Hybrid RAV4, but is also significantly smaller (comparable to a Mazda CX3, which is $20-30k cheaper). The RAV4 costs less to buy, holds its value, is probably be much cheaper to insure, and has 1000+km range on a 55 litre tank of fuel. Unlike a "pure" BEV, the RAV4 will deliver the at least the same range on the highway that it delivers in town. When you buy an EV, if you want to charge using cheap rates at home, you will need to buy a wallbox - around $1500, plus installation.
Look I hear you on the RAV4, but lots of people want a smaller EV with a luxury brand attached to it. This is the most affordable way into that world. It’s not for everyone. But Volvo itself knows that.
Smaller sure , but this small? Same size as a VW T-Roc and only fractionally larger than a Yaris Cross? Surely a RAV4 buyer looking for a slightly smaller vehicle would look at the much more practical Corolla Cross. $68k-$80k on the road is not a very affordable pathway into a Chinese made EV. BTW Volvo electric is not a luxury brand - I own a 2023 XC60 T8 Recharge in ultimate trim - I'm not kidding myself that it's in the same category as the big 3 Germans.
@@therightcar Understood. Interestingly enough Polestar are currently advertising $68.5k driveway for a Polestar 2. A little bigger, and somewhat better value at the price. Given that it Polestar / Volvo / Geely are the same company, they seem to have a bit of a conflict in their pricing/positioning approach.
$60k is "affordable and entry level". Love your reviews dude, but on what planet do you live to find this affordable. Gwm Ora and mg evs can be called affordable. No wonder Peugoet cut 2008 E price by $25k, all these EVs are overpriced. Also love how European brands charge premiums, but most of components are made in China or in collaboration with Chinese.
@@therightcar I personally think the ones under $40k can be called affordable, as that is what majority of us can afford. The rest are toys for people with spare cash. And I'm sure this Volvo is 80% Chinese made.
@@londo0 The ones we will get in Australia will be from the Volvo/Geely factory in China - designed in Sweden, made in China. They will produce some in Ghent Belgium later in the year but that's only for the EU market.
@@therightcar Volvo is not a luxury brand - I own an XC60 T8 Recharge in Ultimate trim and it's not in the same category as the big 3 Germans - definitely sits a peg below that. But compared to a Kona Electric I think you have a point.
Ev's and superstars don't belong in the same sentence. Buying an EV thinking it's better for the planet is like taking the juice during COVID was the right thing to do.
What is a fire starter ev? This one is a Volvo. Is fire starter the brand or just a type? I tried to find it on Google but couldn't find it. Either way this Ev is a nice one to drive if you are in the market for a new car I would recommend it.
Are these 1500 actual sales with a contract attached?, or more like the 2million+ deposits placed on the Cybertruck? I see a senior spokesperson for Volvo Australia commenting that around 30 per week are being registered - unless this is just the start of a very significant ramp up that would make 1500 equal to a year's worth of registrations.
@@TB-up4xi EX30 has only just started to arrive in Australia More vehicles start to arrive late May and in June Monthly sales figures will get decent from June / July onwards Many of these are pre sold, and the buyers waiting for their vehicle, to arrive… Now that dealers are getting vehicles and demo models etc, people can now go to a dealer, and see the car and drive it etc. A lot of people will order / buy EX30 over next few months… Volvo Aust expect to sell 3,500 of these by end of 2024, based on the supply they expect to get…
You spent 3 minutes saying you get used to the screen. You don't. And you shouldn't. It's stupid and unsafe. What else is stupid and unsafe? Having a DAW system, then having a speedo that you have to look away from the road to see. Hyundai absolutely destroys this.
For over 60k you want the back seats to be useable, even if you dont have kids.
It really is a 2 person car who might use the back every now and then.
You have the kona, atto3, megane etc as better choices.
Like the megane this has great reviews across europe.
And the europeans prefer the mid spec also.
When is the Kia EV3 due to launch, I'm guessing a competitor to the Volvo EX30?
Thank you for your review. The first Australian based one I’ve seen. I’m taking delivery of mine next week and have gone for the dual motor version. I have recently also test driven the car. I prefer it over other EVs I’ve tested mainly for its compact size, suspension setup and power delivery which to me feels more like a traditional car which suits me personally. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel its weight as much as other EVs that I tested. Anyway, just my 2c worth. Nice review.
Thanks for the feedback, and good luck with your delivery! I hope you love it.
Really like this little Volvo. I saw one the other day in this yellow and it looked incredibly good. Disappointing that they forgot to check people fit in the rear before creating the metalwork though...
Would be useful, when there's just a touchscreen in a car, if you could tell us/demo how well the voice activated stuff makes up for it, or doesn't.
I ordered the Ultra twin motor performance modal, as in the UK, it’s only £3k to upgrade to the dual motor variant which is quicker than a Model Y Performance.
Hmmm... I'm skeptical - EX30 twin motor 315kw and 1943kg. Model Y Performance 393kw and 1997kg.
The low 0-60mph (or 0-100km/h) could be a result of a higher reduction gear but physics is physics, I'm wondering what does overtaking and 1/4 mile look like? Don't get me wrong still super quick but what does it look like overall?
As an example of overhyped 0-100 times, The BYD Seal Performance claims 0-100kmh of 3.8s vs a Tesla Model 3 LR of 4.4 sec that is a very considerable difference, yes the BYD takes off slightly quicker but is caught by the model 3 by the 400m mark and is considerably slower from 80km/h-120km for overtaking.
Cheap? 30k is cheap. 60k is daylight robbery for an EV
"Volvo's middle name is safety". Then they hide most of the controls in a multi-menu touchscreen. Interesting that the Google connected services is for 5 years only. I assume a subscription service after that?
Why do these car companies insist on not having a speedo. It’s just a really bad idea. Speed is one of those bits of information you need on a regular basis…. Why put it outside of your eyes view. I had a 1968 mini with the speedo in the middle too- hated it. This isn’t a new idea…. It’s just cheap, minis were cheap- I expect more from $70k+ car.
Saves money...
Sole and major reason to avoid such cars. IM not saying avoid evs but cars that don’t offer such a basic thing because it’s a safety hazard. On a wet slippery twisted toad the last thing you need is to get your eyes off the road to check the damn speed
It’s not a $70k car though
I used to own a 1968 Mini as well - loved it! I got used to the speedo being in the middle quite easily, as I now do with my Model Y. It's not a bad idea at all, as long as you can clearly see it. There's no difference to moving your eyes off the road either below the top of the steering wheel or to the left of it. Muscle memory kicks in and it's second nature. But I know it's not to everyone's taste which is fine.
@@johnlambert1744 the only thing worse was the hydro elastic suspension- especially for “spirited” drivers.
This car is ideal for us (retired) which will mainly be used by my wife for shopping, visiting the kids and me going to tennis etc. Our grandchildren are still very young and they will be the only "usual" passangers at the back, so certainly big enough. I test drove the car a couple of times (I am not a millennial IT guru) and did not find using the touch screen difficult at all so I can't see us having any difficulty in getting used to it, including the speedo which has large numbers on the side closer to the driver. It also drives as good or better than any other car I drove (and I drove a lot of hire cars through my work). We just can't wait to take delivery of it.
Great! Good luck with it.
All European designed cars are beautifully designed. The powers in this Volvo is icing on the cake.
Rip off. Pricing started at 34,950 USD and Australia again we get absolutely reemed.
I was really looking forward to this car but for that price, hard pass.
Hey Matt, tossing up between this ex30 (have a preorder + test drove and liked) and a polestar 2 standard. The polester just got a price cut in standard pack until eofy which now makes it cheaper on-road. Given this which would you pick?
Thanks for the question. The key thing is how much space you need. If you can make the Volvo’s size work, and you don’t have kids, it could be a great car. But the Polestar is a bigger vehicle with a more spacious back seat and bigger boot, which makes it more practical.
I have a kid and dogs, so it would have to be the Polestar out of those.
Thanks for the input Matt, yes I'm in-between you as have a kid on the way, but this would be a second car as already have a Kluger which has the space, so could be handy but not crirical. So a tough choice. Volvo from a brand POV also seems like a more stable choice but you do get more car for the money with polestar right now.
Can you really have apple carplay/android auto? I’ve heard you can’t in ex30…🤔
Enough with the rear wd/ front wd crap. 100’s of millions of people have driven front drive cars since the mid 20th century and neither notice or care. Only petrol heads and enthusiast’s really care and the rest of us just get on with life.
I looked at one of these (the dual motor variant) via leasing - current Australian Gov incentives mean EV and PHEV cars have the fringe benefits tax waived (until april next year I think, not really sure on that one). What I decided in the end is that I couldn't live with just a touch screen for everything. One, I'm not sure faffing with sub-menus while driving is all that safe. Two, my eyes aren't what they used to be and I don't really want to have to wear reading glasses perched on the end of my nose to see, for example, how far I have left until a recharge. Three, the charging infrastructure around where I live is not great. Looks like a nice little car though, and I applaude Volvo for making an EV that is in the "very nearly affordable" range.
You’re right about the incentives but the FBT exemption is only applicable for PHEVS until 30 March next year, while EVs will continue with it until further notice.
One thing I failed to mention in more detail, and which may chance your ideas on faffing with menus, is that the voice control system has a lot of potential for adjustments here.
@therightcar Ah, thanks for that. Yes, they did say get a phev before next April, now you mention it. The google voice control is definitely something I didn't take into account, and if it's solid, it would remove one of my major reservations.
Are you seriously not suggesting a Tesla Model Y for the same money?
I'm interested to see what you call affordable, Matt.😊
Contextually affordable mate - RUclips isn’t paying me that much just yet
It'd be cheap compared to other EVs
Is it even that though, Matt?? It’s a very expensive hatchback. It’s tiny. Contextually affordable to other Chinese rivals eg MG4, Ora?
This car in top spec is only 76k AUD which is definitely affordable.
I'm sure you'll get just the same amount of reliability from an mg or an Ora 😂 I'm sure you can see more of those cars being fixed than driven
Great review Matt. We were really interested in the EX30, but we ended up going with the Kona Extended range because of the size and availability!
The 8 year road side assist and battery warranty, 5 year no servicing cost, 24 month intervals, mid spec rear wheel drive, not bad I reckon ✅
I agree!
Test drove one yesterday, incredible car. Testing a BYD ATTO 3 tomorrow, as from the reviews I've seen - the other option (Kona) loses out to the Atto.
Great! Let us know how you go with the decision.
@therightcar went volvo. The drive of the byd wasn't even close. Also I know people like the parking assistance in the BYD but to me the forward parking was extremely bad.
Why do you kept saying it luxury or premium ? Market positioning ? To be honest in part of Asia ( China ) this specs is just normal , why do we have to pay more ? Option this option that ? Why China can make good quality car with bells and whistle with good pricing ? We as a customer have to pay more for less ! Why do we have to accept our fate year over year ! If it’s only market positioning or branding and it still made in China and we still have to pay more , might as well buy the Chinese car ! They can sell series 3 electrified bnw for 24k why can’t we have that ? 60-70 k if it’s made in Sweden …
If you love China so much why don’t you move there?
Seriously. Brands have to maintain a presence and position that is relevant to market consistency and competition. You can’t expect Volvo to suddenly become a Chery rival because specs. There’s a lot more to a car than a simple product - it’s about the market presence, dealership network and ownership experience.
I pick up my dual motor in a week. Supercar performance for an extra 5k is a bargain IMO.
Well, supercar acceleration...
@@therightcar You're right. Still stupid quick though!
It is competitive in comparison to other European luxury brands. I am hesitant to consider due to the NMC battery, small backseat and small boot. The incoming Kia EV5 might shake the market. Byd Seal, as a sedan, offer better LFP battery and more backseat/boot space.
I hear you on the NMC. Not for everyone. But your points are bang on - EV5 will be a tempting thing if they get the price right.
I would not choose any of the alternatives. None of them would be able to tow a runabout boat. The EX-30 would tow a boat and a small camper trailer or light caravan. If you want to attach a tow bar to a car this is the one to do it.
That’s fine mate. Other EVs can tow, you know.
Seems like a great car and quite like the design. Have been driving a Tesla for over a year, so everything operated via the screen isn’t an issue. You do get used to it very quickly. This is one nice looking car.
Agreed, I also drive a Tesla. The latest software update increased the text size for the speedo, it’s very easily seen, and the centre screen is very user friendly.
@@gregturner_awod very true. It’s made a world of difference, and whilst I get it can throw people off, many knock it before they’ve tried it … once you try it, works very well and also there are voice commands if you really don’t want to go into screen (I only learnt ‘increase fan speed’ last week) 🤣🤣🤣
@@gregturner_awodBut Greg, it begs the question as why did Tesla previously REDUCE the speedometer font in the first place (as well as reducing the boldness of font?)
I’ve noticed that Tesla have, since the introduction of the Model 3 in 2017, always played around with the speedometer font size, boldness and location on the screen !!!
Why ??
Originally it was quite large AND bold, but located about a quarter of the way in from the edge of the screen…
Then they reduced the font size and re-located it right into the top right hand corner of the screen (for RHD markets like Australia)
Then they reduced the BOLDNESS and the SIZE, as if Tesla didn’t want you to see your speed clearly !!😳😳
Why, just why ??
Why all the fart-arsing around, Tesla ??
Just make the speedometer a really, really large, bold font in the top corner, and JUST LEAVE IT THERE, so you can see it out of the corner of your eye….
Please Elon…..it’s NOT rocket science 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
BTW, I’ve driven the Model 3 on a number of occasions, and could never get used to the lack of drivers’ instrument binnacle..
I will never, ever buy a vehicle without one - it just shows the CONTEMPT that a vehicle manufacturer has for it’s customers by removing such an crucial inclusion.
And to those that say it’s a useful cost saving measure?
Rubbish, I say!
If that were true, WHY did Tesla ADD to the cost of the updated model 3 by introducing an expensive screen in the rear of the vehicle???
A screen that is USELESS to a huge number of Model 3 owners, since they rarely have anyone in the rear…
I’m sure 99% of M3 owners would prefer that money spent on a nice driver’s display, or at the very least a windscreen HUD.
@@Nicholas.T You’re entitled to your view, expressed at extraordinary length with memes, and then speciously saying you’re speaking on behalf of “a huge number” of Tesla Model 3 owners? Tesla drivers do have kids and back seat passengers. I think you simply don’t like EV’s. I do.
@@Nicholas.TI've never agreed with the "you get used to it " thing , you get used to using crutches too .
It’s so small in the backseat
How the ….. is 60k ++ reasonable for a mini ev ? With kids back seat …
It’s from a luxury brand. Don’t want a luxury experience? Buy a BYD.
How is this either "affordable" or "luxury"? All of the typical luxury cabin features have been stripped out, it starts at $68k drive away for the base single motor model and almost $80k for the twin motor with the upgraded 'ultimate' package and the car is very compact - about the same size as the VW T-Roc or Yaris Cross, much smaller for example than a Toyota Corolla Cross.
It is from a luxury brand, and costs less than any other luxury branded EV.
Seems pretty clear to me.
Volvo is not a luxury brand.
08:16.... look, it's all stuff you get used to..... Hardly a big sell.
I'm test driving and EX30 unlimited soon.
But I feel like Volvo just wanted to save pennies by removing dials and knobs
Ha, it’s not the first brand to remove tactile controls at the expense of usability.
But it is something a buyer should be mindful of, as it’s really not going to be ideal for some.
@@therightcar I'll let you know what I think after I've experienced it
i'm happy to wait much more afforable Chinese EV range :D and it will cost at least half of that
You think Geely will launch their sister product from this platform at $30-$40k? Wrong.
@@therightcar considering MG already selling EV from $40k driveway I see no reason why
This is already a Chinese EV, just an expensive one.
@@TB-up4xi exactly
zeekr x
Good looking car with lots of compromises. More like a $50K car compared to the competition.
What competition comes from a luxury brand at this price? Ohhhhh that’s right, there aren’t any competitors.
@therightcar
Matt, I wouldn't call a Volvo a luxury brand. They haven't had that term for years.
@@buncha5651 agreed, premium european in Australia only
@buncha5651 what aspect isnt luxury in volvo?
@@therightcar if it was a luxury brand they would have room for the passengers and a heads up display
Lots of clever swedish design but a lot of cost cutting in other areas which is a real shame. That has to be one of the thickest Volvo front seats in recent memory?
I’m not sure the seats are any thicker than other Volvos but I get where you’re coming from.
@@therightcar Thanks for the response, Visually looks thicker to me for some reason
A misplaced speedo is not a matter of getting or not getting used to. It's a safety issue.
Then the world’s highest selling vehicle for 2023 - the Tesla Model Y - has a safety issue, too.
@therightcar Absolutely. And it's not the only issue with Tesla's lower end vehicles
No speedo in front of the driver or HUD. Big glass roof with no cover (I don’t understand why manufacturers think glass roofs will easily translate to Australia. They make the car an oven on most days even with darkened glass.) No VTL or VTH, this should be standard on all EV,s. Not even trim under the bonnet even though it appears to have been designed for it. The shortcomings in isolation would not have been deal breakers as there is much to like about this car and I admit I was looking forward to its arrival as I will soon be in the market for a smallish ev but too many things I’m not prepared to compromise with especially with the number of ev,s coming to the market shortly and the number already here. We will soon be spoilt for choice so no need to take what we don’t want. A shame because one of my favourite cars was a Volvo some years ago. I really liked it.
Yep, I understand some of those items could be deal breakers. But not everyone needs or wants all those things.
@@therightcar True but that’s why I used the nominative pronoun ‘i’ through much of my statements. I was only speaking for myself for the most part. I’m quite sure your suppliers of test vehicles would understand that.
I was thinking the same thing about the roof. I went to my local dealership today to check out this car. It was a hot day. The seat was burning the back of my arms. The air con took a while to cool the car down. The salesperson said you can buy a shade but they had none there to show. Found one on ebay but it looks crap and fiddly to clip on and take off. Not sure why they couldn't design a retractable shade. You can go for the Plus, which apparently has no panoramic roof. Back seat passengers may feel more cramped though. They had no Plus models in the showroom, so I couldn't compare.
Smart for Volvo to avoid EX30 tariffs in the US by exporting EX90s. I cancelled my reservation for the EX30. In the end, the brand target market of safety and design isn't the best fit for me, which instead is quirky, fun to drive (ie MINI Countryman SE). I am bullish on the BMW/MINI brands and sustainability strategies, they've got time in EV since the i3 (2013?), 8 EVs depending on the market and Neue Klasse next year.
Love your reviews; very down to earth but still informative.
Not looking very luxury compared to the Kia EV3. It has room for the passengers, room for your luggage, buttons, a heads up display and significantly more range with the larger battery version.
I like the warranty and service interval & very low service costs. Not sure about the all the instruments/data (speed etc) not being right in front of you. All data being displayed on the Touch pad is just too Tesla for me and I REFUSE to buy a Tesla because of that.
For my money the entry level is just fine when compared with ICE.
A definite contender.
A nicely designed small Volvo EV, this one built in China, and as a small but powerful EV looks great. The software looks good, and the internal design looks excellent. The gear selector has the same functionality as past Tesla Model 3’s and current Model Y’s. A great two seater, perhaps small kids in the back. I’d love it as a second car. Mid spec is certainly the way to go, as said in the review, and what I like is unlike the XC40 Recharge which was originally designed as an ICE vehicle this was designed ground up as an EV. I love to free servicing you described, well done Volvo! An excellent and comprehensive review as always of an interesting new EV.
Just wondering why the BYD cross overs never got a mention here. Same size - same spec. Great review - thanks so much.
I can't find any info on whether the car has a heat pump in Oz, or just a PTC heater. Long drives on cold days can suck a lot of juice with just PTC. Its the problem I have with all the current KIA EVs. At least the new Kona does have one.
Going down the Tesla's path of not having a speedo or HUD for the speed is a big let down. Drivers should not need to get distract because they need to check the speed.
my brother had a pre-order in from last year.
test drive concluded its great except.......its too small.
shame!
Volvo Ultra is std wheels not 20” wheels!
Either the launch event is wrong or the Rex Gorell Geelong are ripping me off for the wheels 😳😳
Great review. Why not provide LFP batteries. Specially in Australia where cold weather is not an issue
I driving three Volvo cars , but not this one , not enough room, and not safe!
I love the look both inside and out … like a mobile IkeA showroom.. back seat is too small sadly ...
Great review As always !
Over 70k for an entrance level mini car. I’d prefer a Corolla for …
11:15 was that another yellow EX30 zooming past??
No speedo for a sub 4s car - looks like the cops will be having a bright future with their radars whilst the real crims go nuts.
Thanks China.
This is such a crazy comment.
Where's this vineyard
St Hugo, in the Barossa.
Who is this car for? DINKS and retirees?
Nice but small for the money. At 60k+ a Tesla Model Y makes a lot more sense.
Agreed, but not everybody wants a Tesla Model Y. The interior is awful, black vinyl seats and no character.
Portrait infotainment is less space efficient. I hate the open centre storage trend in cars, it’s messy.
….but otherwise impractical, especially without knobs and buttons!
There. I finished your sentence for you. 🫶🏻
Let's see a drag race between the car in this video and a MG4 XPOWER 😊
Luxury EV ?? It’s full of pure cheap plastic and recycled materials,,,wouldn’t touch it no matter how much power it’s got !
Luxury isn’t leather anymore, dude.
Don’t then.
Less recycled materials and more up cycled, better feeling car than all the other crap ev's out there.
I have a 21 volvo V60cc- long time Volvo fan since my 240. Keen to test drive it, but worried about the space in the boot and back seat. Appreciate the awesome review 👌🏻
Thanks heaps for the compliment. And if you are worried about needing more back seat and boot room, there’s an XC40 EV that can meet those needs 😎
ya gut, but its is it worth 20-30K more than mg4?
Well you can pay $60K for an MG4 if you want to, too….
It's a Geely wearing a Volvo badge, so the "premium" branding is skin deep. The requirement to use the central screen to monitor speed is a safety drawback, and the use of a touchscreen to do everything from climate control to side mirror adjustments would be... frustrating.
At 1.8 tonnes, the EX30 weighs 120kg more than a Hybrid RAV4, but is also significantly smaller (comparable to a Mazda CX3, which is $20-30k cheaper). The RAV4 costs less to buy, holds its value, is probably be much cheaper to insure, and has 1000+km range on a 55 litre tank of fuel. Unlike a "pure" BEV, the RAV4 will deliver the at least the same range on the highway that it delivers in town. When you buy an EV, if you want to charge using cheap rates at home, you will need to buy a wallbox - around $1500, plus installation.
Look I hear you on the RAV4, but lots of people want a smaller EV with a luxury brand attached to it. This is the most affordable way into that world. It’s not for everyone. But Volvo itself knows that.
Smaller sure , but this small? Same size as a VW T-Roc and only fractionally larger than a Yaris Cross? Surely a RAV4 buyer looking for a slightly smaller vehicle would look at the much more practical Corolla Cross. $68k-$80k on the road is not a very affordable pathway into a Chinese made EV.
BTW Volvo electric is not a luxury brand - I own a 2023 XC60 T8 Recharge in ultimate trim - I'm not kidding myself that it's in the same category as the big 3 Germans.
@@therightcar Understood. Interestingly enough Polestar are currently advertising $68.5k driveway for a Polestar 2. A little bigger, and somewhat better value at the price. Given that it Polestar / Volvo / Geely are the same company, they seem to have a bit of a conflict in their pricing/positioning approach.
Anyone considering a rav in Aus, I applaude your patience. They do say good things come to those who wait.
Looks 20k.
$60k is "affordable and entry level". Love your reviews dude, but on what planet do you live to find this affordable. Gwm Ora and mg evs can be called affordable.
No wonder Peugoet cut 2008 E price by $25k, all these EVs are overpriced.
Also love how European brands charge premiums, but most of components are made in China or in collaboration with Chinese.
Thanks. The average EV transaction price is mid $60k in Aus. It is affordable - it’s from a LUXURY brand.
@@therightcar I personally think the ones under $40k can be called affordable, as that is what majority of us can afford. The rest are toys for people with spare cash.
And I'm sure this Volvo is 80% Chinese made.
@@londo0 The ones we will get in Australia will be from the Volvo/Geely factory in China - designed in Sweden, made in China. They will produce some in Ghent Belgium later in the year but that's only for the EU market.
@@therightcar Volvo is not a luxury brand - I own an XC60 T8 Recharge in Ultimate trim and it's not in the same category as the big 3 Germans - definitely sits a peg below that. But compared to a Kona Electric I think you have a point.
@@TB-up4xi yep, from China but will cost 20k in premium. Gwm Ora and mini electric use same underpinnings, but Ora here costs 36k and Mini much more.
Thoughts on the Renault Megane E tech in relation to this.
Would love to tell you but I’m banned by Renault for some reason….
Test drive them both. You'll see the difference.
Can order one?
Yeah they’ve got 3900 of them coming this year!
Top speed only 180kmh
Oh boo hoo.
Your point being? Personally, top speed should be electronically limited to 150km/h.
Woof!
Is that a woof of appreciation?
Tesla till I die
$60,000 plus on road, Matt. You are hilarious. EV,s are crap .Hybrids are the future in Australia.
Ev's and superstars don't belong in the same sentence. Buying an EV thinking it's better for the planet is like taking the juice during COVID was the right thing to do.
😡 I WILL NOT BUY A FIRE STARTER EV CAR NEVER NEVER NEVER 😡😡😡😡😡
What is a fire starter ev? This one is a Volvo. Is fire starter the brand or just a type? I tried to find it on Google but couldn't find it. Either way this Ev is a nice one to drive if you are in the market for a new car I would recommend it.
Never heard of that brand. Not the best name, Fire Starter. Was a great Prodigy song, though.
@@therightcar 😎 GEEZ 😎
@@rhys6165 😎 GEEZ 😎
I have an electric assist bicycle called the ‘Ignite’. Is that close enough?
I predict they will sell 8 of these per month in Australia 🤷♂️
They’ve already sold 1500.
Clueless, do some research before you make stupid comments.
Are these 1500 actual sales with a contract attached?, or more like the 2million+ deposits placed on the Cybertruck? I see a senior spokesperson for Volvo Australia commenting that around 30 per week are being registered - unless this is just the start of a very significant ramp up that would make 1500 equal to a year's worth of registrations.
@@TB-up4xi
EX30 has only just started to arrive in Australia
More vehicles start to arrive late May and in June
Monthly sales figures will get decent from June / July onwards
Many of these are pre sold, and the buyers waiting for their vehicle, to arrive…
Now that dealers are getting vehicles and demo models etc, people can now go to a dealer, and see the car and drive it etc.
A lot of people will order / buy EX30 over next few months…
Volvo Aust expect to sell 3,500 of these by end of 2024, based on the supply they expect to get…
Cheap
Cheaper than any other luxury Euro brand has an EV… by like $20k.
You spent 3 minutes saying you get used to the screen. You don't. And you shouldn't. It's stupid and unsafe. What else is stupid and unsafe? Having a DAW system, then having a speedo that you have to look away from the road to see. Hyundai absolutely destroys this.