Volvo’s latest offering for India, the EX30, could well be its most significant yet. This all-electric SUV is compact, approachable, and carries the weight of expectation as the brand aims to capture a younger, more dynamic audience in the premium EV space. Though it is Volvo’s smallest SUV, the EX30 manages to pack in enough character and capability to feel like a complete product, not a compromise.
The EX30’s upright tailgate and split tail-lamps give it a youthful, distinctive look from the rear.
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Special Arrangement
Visually, the EX30 has a lot going for it. The upright stance, tight proportions, and clean surfacing all carry the signature Volvo’s trademark restraint, but the designers have given it a dash of pop culture appeal as well. Look closely at the front, and you’ll see how the blanked-off grille and sleek lighting elements come together in a way that is oddly reminiscent of the Mandalorian’s helmet from the Star Wars universe. It is a detail that gives the car a futuristic yet playful identity, setting it apart from the crowded crop of electric SUVs. At the rear, the split-tail lamp design and upright tailgate add to its youthful, distinctive flair.
Step into the cabin, and the philosophy of “less is more” takes on a new dimension.Volvo has taken simplification to a whole new level with the EX30. Controls are centralized through a large vertical touchscreen, which not only runs Volvo’s Google-based operating system but also cleverly houses functions you’d expect to find on separate switches. For instance, the adjustment of the outside mirrors is done entirely via the screen, and even the glove box opens at the press of a digital button. Power window controls for both front and rear are combined into a single cluster on the centre console, with a toggle to switch between the front and rear. It is minimalistic, yes,but also intuitive once you settle into its logic.
Inside, the minimalist cabin uses recycled materials without compromising on quality or comfort.
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Special Arrangement
Practicality has not been overlooked in this exercise of design purity. The cabin is dotted with smart storage solutions— a movable tray that doubles as cupholders, a flip-open compartment tucked into the centre console, and enough charging ports to keep every device topped up. The air-conditioning is quick to respond and effective. Rear seat space is comfortable for most passengers, though very tall occupants may find legroom a little tight. Boot space, while not cavernous, is adequate for the EX30’s intended urban and suburban role. Overall, it is a cabin that feels airy, modern, and youthful without ever feeling fussy.
On the move, the EX30 quickly impresses, with its lively character. The instant torque delivery makes it feel lively in city traffic, yet the power never comes across as abrupt or jerky. Instead, it is delivered in a smooth, confident manner that feels very natural to drive. Volvo claims a range of up to 480 kilometres on a full charge, and that figure is generous enough to make this SUV practical for both daily commutes and the occasional highway run.
With strong range, clever design, and Volvo’s trademark safety, the EX30 is set to make waves in India’s EV market.
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Perhaps the biggest surprise is how well the EX30 rides. For its size, it soaks up bumps and rough patches remarkably well. Road undulations that would unsettle many rivals are dispatched with composure, giving the EX30 a planted, stable feel even at higher speeds. The steering is on the lighter side, but it is precise and suits the car’s overall dynamics, making it enjoyable to guide through both traffic and winding roads. There is an agility to the EX30 that makes it genuinely fun to drive, something not always expected from a compact luxury SUV.
Backing up its driving dynamics is Volvo’s traditional focus on safety, with the EX30 carrying a suite of advanced driver assistance features and multiple protective systems built into its structure. That reputation alone gives it an edge in India, where safety is fast emerging as a key consideration for buyers in this bracket.
What brings the EX30 together is Volvo’s emphasis on sustainability and youthful appeal. The cabin incorporates recycled and responsibly sourced materials without compromising quality, while the overall design language blends classic Volvo simplicity with a certain playfulness that younger buyers will appreciate. It feels premium, but not old-fashioned; clever, but not complicated.
In India, the EX30 will arrive at a crucial price point. If Volvo can keep the entry sticker close to the ₹40 lakh mark, it immediately stands out as a serious contender. However, if pricing drifts significantly higher, it may face resistance, especially as rivals from both traditional luxury players and new-age EV specialists are now offering compelling alternatives. Ultimately, the game will come down to how aggressively Volvo chooses to position the EX30.
The Volvo EX30’s bold stance and sleek lighting give it a futuristic yet playful identity.
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Special Arrangement
From my time with the car, it is clear that the EX30 ticks many boxes. It looks distinctive, feels fresh, drives beautifully, and packs in smart details that give it an edge in everyday use. Yes, rear seat space could have been more generous, but that is not a dealbreaker in this category. The highlights remain the smooth yet energetic power delivery, the excellent ride quality, and the intelligent packaging of the cabin. Volvo has created a compact electric SUV that does not just feel like an entry-level product, but rather a genuinely desirable one in its own right.
If priced right, the EX30 couldbe Volvo India’s most exciting and successful model in years. It has all the makings of a winner: strong range, engaging dynamics, clever design, and the kind of unique appeal that makes it stand out in a crowded EV market. For buyers looking for a compact luxury EV that combines substance with a dash of style, the EX30 is certainly one to watch.
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Published – August 18, 2025 02:04 pm IST
