logo
2025 Volvo EX30: 4 Reasons to Love It, 2 Reasons to Look Elsewhere

2025 Volvo EX30: 4 Reasons to Love It, 2 Reasons to Look Elsewhere

Yahoo25-03-2025

Volvo is slowly filling out its EV offerings in the United States, and the EX30 is the Swedish automaker's latest entry. The 2025 Volvo EX30 was expected to arrive in single and dual-motor versions, but the former is still up in the air. While the dual-motor Volvo EX30 is a powerhouse, there are a few issues to take into account before you buy.
View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article
The Volvo EX30 was supposed to arrive in the summer of 2024, but the automaker chose to delay its arrival until the end of the year. As a new nameplate for the 2025 model year, the EX30 is only available in dual motor form. The single-motor version is still expected, but there's no confirmed arrival date just yet.
The Volvo EX30 is a true powerhouse, especially in its twin motor form, which just so happens to be the only powertrain available. The two motors are paired with a 69 kWh battery and standard all-wheel drive that generate 422 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. With a 0-to-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds, the EX30 is the fastest-accelerating Volvo to ever grace roadways.
The EX30 has a significant advantage over the only other all-wheel drive EV in its class, the Mini Countryman Electric. Mini's EV enters the arena with 308 horsepower and 364 lb-ft of torque, pushing it to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, two seconds behind the EX30.
Range anxiety is a major cause of concern for consumers new to EVs. The Volvo EX30 helps alleviate that anxiety with a standard 253-mile range with the dual motor powertrain. That puts it on par with the Kia Niro EV, which also offers a 253-mile range, and in striking range of the Hyundai Kona Electric's 261-mile range. The EX30 also easily beats out the Mini Countryman Electric's 212-mile range.
Charging speeds can also be a deciding factor when it comes to EVs. Fortunately, the Volvo EX30 is fairly quick, charging from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes at a DC fast charging station. That's a good deal faster than the Kia Niro EV, which charges from 10% to 80% in 45 minutes. The EX30 can also charge from zero to 100% in eight hours when using a standard home outlet.
Given that the single motor variant has been delayed, the dual motor powertrain gives every EX30 currently on the market standard all-wheel drive. The Hyundai Kona Electric nor the Kia Niro EV don't even come with all-wheel drive as an optional upgrade, let alone as a standard feature.
With a standard twin-motor powertrain comes a hefty starting price. The 2025 Volvo EX30 starts at $44,900, with the range-topping Ultra trim coming in at $46,600, excluding the $1,295 destination fee. According to a Volvo press release, the single-motor version will start at $34,950, or nearly $10,000 less than the dual-motor model. On top of its lower price, the single-motor model has an expected range of 275 miles, placing it at the top of its class.
Volvo has made some interesting changes with the all-electric EX30, the most obvious of which is the lack of a dedicated gauge display. Instead, the Swedish automaker has opted for a vertically oriented display that houses both the infotainment system and gauges. That could take some getting used to if you've become accustomed to a display gauge above the steering wheel.
The 2025 Volvo EX30 is an upscale crossover that fills a void in the small crossover segment. While there are only three other models in its class, only one holds a candle to the EX30's style, tech, and reputation. Give the Mini Countryman Electric a test drive before you make your final decision, at least until the single-motor EX30 makes its debut.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Volvo Superfan Explains Why They're 'One Of the Best Cars' Under $5K For Teens. He Might Be Onto Something
Volvo Superfan Explains Why They're 'One Of the Best Cars' Under $5K For Teens. He Might Be Onto Something

Motor 1

timea day ago

  • Motor 1

Volvo Superfan Explains Why They're 'One Of the Best Cars' Under $5K For Teens. He Might Be Onto Something

A Volvo S60 owner says his vehicle is 'one of the best cars for teens' under $5,000. That's TikToker @majkic06 , who shows off a Volvo S60 from the 2000s. A series of on-screen text overlays accompany several glamour shots of the shiny vehicle in Majkic's viral post. The clip, which has accrued more than 84,000 views on the platform, highlights the car's interior and exterior. Furthermore, the Volvo owner writes: 'This is one of the best cars for teens under $5,000. Five-cylinder engine. Very safe as Volvos always are. Lots of tuning potential. Reliable. Looks great.' As they rattle off these selling points of the vehicle, images of the car's 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and tires are displayed. Moreover, the S60's interior appears to be plush, with shiny, black leather seats. Majkic highlights this point in another TikTok post, giving props to the Swedish manufacturer. "Back when car interiors were simple, nice, and long-lasting.' Are Used Volvos Worth It? When it comes to used vehicle reliability, a few manufacturers' names almost always come to mind. Toyota and its luxury counterpart, Lexus, consistently dominate used reliability lists. Even if Consumer Reports says fellow Japanese automaker Subaru now holds the top reliability crown , Toyotas are renowned road warriors. Honda and Mazda also receive high marks for great used car investments. However, the Scandinavian brand isn't often included on this list. But does Majkic have a point? Should a teenager looking for a used car, who doesn't want to skimp on a sumptuous interior, consider purchasing a Volvo S60? That answer seems contingent upon who you ask. Rerev, a car buying advice website, listed the 2001, 2004, and 2006 Volvo S60 model years as some of the worst examples to buy used. This was due to a number of potential issues they could run into. First: The outlet said that these Volvos run into airbag problems—though the outlet did clarify that this is primarily an issue for second-generation S60s. Moreover, the outlet referenced steering issues that are sometimes associated with these vehicles. In addition to airbag concerns, reports that early Volvo S60 cars had recalls for steering linkages. Purportedly, control arms on these model cars needed to be fixed by the manufacturer for proper handling. If left unaddressed, some drivers reportedly lost complete control of their Volvo S60 while on the road. That doesn't exactly bode well for any commuter, let alone a teen who is newly getting behind the wheel. Used Volvos: Common Problems Consumer Reports also says the first-generation Volvo S60 was slapped with two other recalls. One for the car's hydraulic brakes system, which can experience a loss of fluid. Obviously, that's a safety concern. Additionally, the Independent Auto Assessment Group (IADA), a network of vehicle appraiser specialists, wrote that equipment was mislabeled on the 2006 Volvo S60. It appears this pertains to the tire PSI numbers printed on the driver-side door jamb sticker. Inflating the wrong air values could ultimately 'result in a tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash,' according to the recall notice. also writes that Volvo S60 vehicles from various model years experience 'various transmission issues.' The outlet highlighted that 2001-2009 S60s, along with 2014 iterations, may be prone to shifting problems. Furthermore, these same cars will have rough shifts between first and second gear. Consequently, this makes driving in stop-and-go traffic "bothersome.' RepairPal, a repair estimate site, recommends installing the latest Volvo software module when servicing transmissions on these model years. Strut mount failure, along with premature headlamp burnout are other common issues associated with these cars. Volvo Devotees Many drivers have also decried Volvos at-large for having air conditioning issues. Additionally, engine overheating and infotainment glitches can make navigating apps a pain for some drivers. Despite these criticisms, there are others who've applauded the Swedish car brand's offerings. RepairPal, for instance, slapped the first-generation S60 with a 3.5 out of 5 repairability rating. According to the website, this is an above-average score when compared to other vehicles in the same class. More recent offerings have also received favorable marks. MotorTrend tested a 2020 Volvo S60 for 20,000 miles and it ruled the car as a trustworthy ride, as Majkic lauded in the viral TikTok. Buying a Used Volvo Before making any used car purchase, Volvo S60 or not, buyers should make several considerations. First: Ensuring a car hasn't been in any major accidents is crucial. This helps to rule out any frame damage on the vehicle, which could affect performance and safety. This mitigates the possibility of other components prematurely wearing out, too. Second, finding a vehicle that's been promptly maintained is a good rule of thumb. Locating cars with service records can help with that. It helps to buy a car that hasn't been bought and sold too many times. Ideally, finding one that belonged to its original owner would be best. If you can tick all of these aforementioned boxes, then a used car without an egregious mileage count can be a great buy. However, like any used car, you should always set aside money for additional expenditures. Transmission flushes, oil changes, and part swaps will be necessary. Not to mention a set of tires, if the tread on the used car you're buying is looking thin. So factor that cost when making a decision. And it should be mentioned that Volvo parts come at a premium. Mechanic Base, a forum for car repairs, reminds drivers that Volvos are luxury vehicles that come outfitted with expensive parts. Since they're manufactured in Sweden, importing these components can cost more than U.S.-made cars. Or commuter brands that typically retail for less than Volvo's lineup. Commenters React One user who replied to Majkic's video agreed that the Swedish brand is often overlooked. 'Volvos are too slept on, it's crazy,' they penned. And when it comes to the TikToker's commentary about it being a great car for teens, they have a point. Young drivers are more prone to speeding, which makes this car's reputation for high safety ratings more appealing for folks buying a first car for their kids. And like Majkic says in another clip, while his Volvo won't be winning street drag races against a BMW 330i, it could 'ram' the car off the road and survive. Someone else who responded to his video wrote that they, too, were fans of the Volvo S60's cabin. 'I like old interiors, none of the silly cameras and driver assist,' they commented. Which was a sentiment echoed by another writer who said they preferred the old Volvo inside to newer models. 'Love the old Volvo interiors, tried a new EX90 today, lovely seats, the rest was just a soulless interior with an iPad glued to the dashboard.' One TikTok user wrote, 'I had an S60 years ago, the most comfortable car I've ever owned.' There were some folks, however, who said that the car could do better on gas mileage. But RepairPal projects that owners will spend around $750 per year in maintenance costs. We've reached out to Volvo and @majkic06 for comment. More on Volvo Volvo's Smart New Seatbelt Adapts to Your Body The Volvo XC70 Is Coming Back Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )

Volvo Invented a Safety Device You Use Every Day—and Now It's Improving It
Volvo Invented a Safety Device You Use Every Day—and Now It's Improving It

Motor Trend

timea day ago

  • Motor Trend

Volvo Invented a Safety Device You Use Every Day—and Now It's Improving It

Here's a quick quiz: What's something you wear every day (or should), but you can't take it with you? If you guessed your car's seatbelt, here's a cookie. The modern three-point safety belt, specifically, owes its existence to Volvo, the Swedish carmaker renowned for its car safety innovation. In 1959, an engineer working for Volvo, Nils Bohlin, developed the three-point belt—and then Volvo effectively released that patent by vowing not to pursue infringement claims or charge royalties on it. After all, what better way to ensure widespread adoption than to, in essence, open-source a lifesaving technology? Of course, widespread adoption took a few years—okay, decades—but Bohlin's design, which locates two sections of seatbelt over the strongest parts of the body (the pelvis and chest) while also being easy to use by requiring only one hand to grab, pull across one's body, and buckle, eventually became the standard globally. Some innovations have altered the basic design somewhat over the years, both from Volvo and other automakers, namely retractable inertia-reel functions, those irritating motorized track-style units popular in the early 1990s, and more recently, belts with built-in airbags to better distribute crash forces across the body. ZF even came up with heated seatbelts—no mere luxury, this was said to reduce heater use (or need) in EVs, where using the heater can drastically affect range. Now Volvo is announcing another step forward for the three-point belt Bohlin invented 66 years ago: A "multi-adaptive" safety belt. A Multi-Adaptive What Now? This "world-first" technology, according to Volvo, introduces sensor feedback to the seatbelt's action in a crash, allowing the restraint leeway in "adapting to traffic variations and the person wearing it." What this means in practice is that the belt is plugged into sensor data from both inside and outside of the vehicle that can, apparently, gauge an occupant's overall size—including their height, weight, and "body shape"—and match that to their seating position. Using that information, Volvo says the seatbelt can adjust to a "higher belt load setting" for a larger occupant or more severe impact or a "lower belt load setting" for a smaller rider or a fender-bender. But those are only two examples; as Volvo points out, traditional seatbelt pretensioners have only a few load settings at most—the multi-adaptive setup, in Volvo's words, "significantly increases the number of so-called load-limiting profile variations," adding that the technology can improve over time by way of over-the-air (OTA) updates. Volvo doesn't specify how, exactly, the seatbelt pulls off this fine control, but it would seem the load-limiting mechanism for the belt—you know, the part that jams the belt if you try and lean forward too quickly while wearing it, or that locks it after unwinding the belt all the way with the intention of locking it to hold a car seat in place—has been transitioned from somewhat passive to active control. (The exploded view of the seatbelt reel below looks pretty complex.) This gives the belt the ability to more precisely modulate its lockup, we gather, in order to better restrain passengers in certain situations, while allowing some cushioning in others, thus reducing unnecessary belt-related injuries such as rib fractures. In some ways, this technology seems to be tackling the same basic issue that seatbelt airbags attempt to combat: Namely, secondary injuries from the restraint itself. The seatbelt airbag inflates in a crash to effectively increase the safety belt's surface area, spreading the load forces across a broader section of the body. Volvo is attempting the same trick, just not by way of increased belt surface area, but rather control over the belt's load limiter.

2026 Volvo EX60 Debuts New Seatbelt Design That Adapts to You
2026 Volvo EX60 Debuts New Seatbelt Design That Adapts to You

Car and Driver

timea day ago

  • Car and Driver

2026 Volvo EX60 Debuts New Seatbelt Design That Adapts to You

Volvo is introducing a new seatbelt design that it says is a major safety improvement over the modern three-point safety belt. The new design is a smart seatbelt that uses sensors to adapt to your body and will use OTA updates to improve over time. The new smart-belt design will make its debut on the upcoming EX60 electric crossover SUV. When Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin invented the modern three-point safety belt in 1959, the company patented the invention but left the patent open—meaning it was available to every other manufacturer for free. The decision, according to Volvo, has saved more than one million lives in the intervening 66 years. Now the company is debuting a new version of the three-point seatbelt that it believes is a major improvement over the original. Volvo The new design will be a smart belt that adapts to each occupant's body and adjusts the belt load accordingly. It uses data from interior and exterior sensors to customize protection based on the road conditions and the specific occupants. The technology will debut on the upcoming EX60 crossover. According to Volvo, the onboard sensors can accurately detect a passenger's height, weight, body shape, and seating position. Based on real-time data, the belts optimize protection—increasing belt load for larger passengers or lowering it for smaller passengers. While the technology for customizing protection isn't new—Volvo's current belts already use three load-limiting profiles—the new belts increase that number to 11. The belts should also get safer over time, too, as they are equipped to receive over-the-air updates. Volvo A spokesperson for Volvo confirmed that while Volvo led the development of the new belt, the patent for the technology is co-owned by Volvo, and ZF Lifetec, the manufacturer that produces them. While the automaker says it will continue sharing research findings, the spokesperson told Car and Driver that Volvo "cannot commit to sharing the patent at this stage but will continue exploring." Jack Fitzgerald Associate News Editor Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store