The Volvo EX30 is the most affordable model in Volvo’s global lineup, across all powertrain types. The Cross Country version is meant to broaden the EX30’s appeal to buyers who want light off-road capability.
Recently, we had a chance to check out the Volvo EX30 Cross Country fitted with the load basket and load carrier from the official accessories catalogue. Here’s what we think about the MINI Countryman EV and Jeep Avenger Electric rival:
Design
The Volvo EX30 Cross Country is based on the standard EX30 and retains the same basic proportions and overall body shape. It uses the same front-end layout with EX90-inspired Thor’s Hammer LED headlights and a closed-off grille area.
The Cross Country version can be distinguished from the regular EX30 by black panels on the front bumper and the tailgate. It also adds dark grey wheel arch cladding and light grey inserts in the lower sections of the bumpers, with a Cross Country badge on the rear.
Volvo has increased the ground clearance by 19 mm. The model rides on exclusive 19-inch five-spoke wheels finished in matte graphite and matte black. These are fitted with tyres that have a sidewall approximately 7 mm taller than those on the standard EX30.
Interior
The EX30 Cross Country uses the same interior layout as the standard crossover. The dashboard follows a minimalist design and relies almost entirely on the central touchscreen for vehicle functions. There are only a few physical controls in the cabin.
The front door panels do not have separate switches for the rear windows. To operate the rear windows from the driver’s seat, the user must first press a “REAR” button and then use the same window switches.
The “REAR” button is a capacitive touch control. The vehicle does not have a digital instrument cluster. Volvo also does not offer a head-up display, including as an option.
Experience in the Volvo EX30 Cross Country
As a 170 cm (5’7″) occupant, I had no trouble getting into or out of the EX30 Cross Country in either row. The doors closed with a solid thunk, did not feel heavy to swing, but they still felt sturdy.
Up front, I noticed there is no instrument cluster and no head-up display. The compact steering wheel felt a bit thin at the rim. Headroom was generous, and with the driver’s seat set to its tallest position, I still had about 13 cm (5 in) of clearance to the roof.
Lumbar support felt good, and the headrest is not adjustable, but it is supported well. Under-thigh support in the front did not stand out as an issue. Forward visibility felt good, and side visibility also felt fine. Rearward visibility felt more limited, mainly due to the short rear window.
In the rear, knee room was sufficient and legroom felt good. Under-thigh support felt weaker than in the front, and my knees sat slightly raised. The floor is not fully flat, and I had about 13 cm (5 in) of headroom.
Lumbar support felt good, and the backrest angle felt comfortable, though it does not recline. The centre rear position did not feel suitable for adults.
The wool-blend upholstery felt notably soft and different from typical leather finishes. Material quality felt consistent front to rear, though I noticed hard plastics low on the door panels. While the rear door bins aren’t large enough for a regular water bottle, I liked the removable storage box at the base of the centre console.
Specifications
In the UK, Volvo Cars offers the EX30 Cross Country only in a dual-motor AWD configuration. The two motors produce 315 kW (422 bhp) and 543 Nm (400 lb.-ft.) of torque and draw energy from a 65 kWh battery pack that supports charging at up to 153 kW.
The EX30 Cross Country has approach, breakover, and departure angles of 19º, 18º, and 26º, representing improvements of 1º, 2º, and 2º over the standard EX30. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds and maxes out at the Volvo-standard 112 mph. It can deliver a WLTP range of 270.9 miles.
Price
Also Read: First Look Review: Volvo ES90 rethinks the saloon with fastback & crossover traits
The Volvo EX30 Cross Country retails at GBP 47,060 in the UK.
