The off road‑ification of the automotive world continues.
The Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Cross Country takes a pavement-oriented vehicle, raises it slightly, adds chunkier tires and liberal black plastic body cladding and gets marketed as adventure‑ready. The “Sand Dune” paint helps this one keep up the rugged theme, too.
As Volvo puts it, “our Cross Country cars perform in a wide variety of road conditions — from muddy tracks and ankle‑deep snow to highway driving.” (The issue of why we need a tiny, electric off-roader in the world is not directly addressed, though Volvo has been making these beefier Cross Country models since 1997. “It looks cool!” is solid enough logic for me.)
Still, it’s the on-road performance that remains a highlight, as the Twin Motor setup gives the EX30 blistering acceleration. In a highly scientific test, with a 4-year-old (mine) and a 7-year-old (borrowed) in the back seat, taps of the accelerator led to screams of delight and extensive giggling. Just be careful what you do with that near-instant speed, as the suspension can get bouncy.
Inside, there’s no start or stop button: just walk up, grab the door handle, get in and drive. It’s emblematic of the EX30’s broader philosophy to simplify everything.
In that vein, and as I’ve said before, to call the interior minimalist is an understatement. The dashboard in front of the driver is essentially empty — just fabric and some kind of rubberized surface. Critical information instead lives on the vertical, tablet‑style center display. Speed, navigation, climate, media — it’s all there. Most controls also get funneled through the center screen, though some also live on the steering wheel.
The cabin does feel airy and open, aided by smart packaging decisions. For one, Volvo says moving the speakers into a dashboard soundbar frees up impressively large door storage bins.
The space, however, has its inherent limits. This is still a rather small SUV. Front seating is comfortable and inviting, but rear‑seat room and cargo capacity are tighter. It’s well suited to getting around town, but less so for bigger family adventures or serious gear hauling. Parking is a cinch.
The EPA‑estimated range sits at a modest 227 miles. Volvo says the EX30 Cross Country can charge from 10 to 80% in as little as 26 minutes.
Also, be ready to pay for being unique. This one comes to $52,975 as tested, after shipping and including a $3,495 18‑inch all‑terrain wheel kit.