Reviewed: Volvo EX30 Cross Country EV SUV

The Volvo EX30 Cross Country is priced from  $69,990. Photos: Liz Dobson

Volvo’s first foray into electric vehicles was the EX30 SUV with has won numerous awards, including a finalist for the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year and now it’s joined by a rugged sibling, the Cross Country.

The EX30 is the smallest SUV ever launched by Volvo Cars and is built on a purpose-designed electric vehicle platform. In addition to battery electric power that produces zero tailpipe emissions, it has been developed with a focus on keeping its carbon footprint to a minimum, across the complete vehicle lifecycle.

The EX30 Cross Country is a reimagined compact electric that blends urban agility with mild off-road capability and rugged styling. It keeps the EX30’s compact proportions and minimalist Scandinavian interior but adds extra ground clearance, tougher cladding, and a suspension tuned for rougher surfaces — aimed at buyers who want an EV equally at home in the city and on gravel roads scattered around New Zealand.

The Cross Country has a map on the front grille.

The Cross Country is priced at $69,990, a $6000 increase over the EX30 SUV, and has twin electric motors giving it a range of 462km.

Compared with the standard EX30 SUV, the Cross Country’s differences are functional. The EX30 emphasises sporty, urban-focused dynamics with lower ride height and sharper steering; the Cross Country raises the ride (about 15–25 mm), softens damping and fits protective skid plates and wheel-arch trims. The result is less razor-sharp turn-in but better comfort over potholes and uneven roads.

A cool difference between the siblings is that the Cross Country has a map etched on its front grille – and I had a number of pedestrians stare at it when I was stopped at traffic lights.

The Cross Country raises the ride (about 15–25 mm) over the EX30.

Performance remains a strong point. Electric motors deliver instant torque and lively acceleration; Cross Country variants retain the EX30’s punchy initial shove, making city overtakes effortless. Due to slightly higher weight and softer suspension the Cross Country is fractionally slower in peak times, but real-world mid-range response is excellent and the powertrain feels eager and efficient.

Handling highlights the trade-offs. The standard EX30 feels taut and engaging with precise steering and a planted character through fast corners. The Cross Country sacrifices some of that sharpness for increased composure on broken surfaces — expect marginally more body roll and gentler turn-in, but superior ride comfort on rough roads. Stability systems and well-judged steering calibration keep the Cross Country competent and confidence-inspiring in everyday driving.

Inside, Volvo’s tidy layout and quality materials remain reassuringly premium. The cabin is ergonomic, tech-forward and spacious for its class, though packaging in a compact body means cargo capacity trails larger crossovers. Safety features and driver aids are comprehensive, reinforcing Volvo’s safety-first image.

All EX30s have a 12.3in touchscreen system that was co-developed with Google. As standard you get Google Maps and Google Assistant.

The EX30 has a 12.3in touchscreen system that was co-developed with Google.

It also has the Harman Kardon Premium Surround Sound System with a sound bar running the length of the front windscreen, turning the Volvo into a car-aoke machine!

Key competitors include the Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX1, Mercedes EQA and premium small electric crossovers such as Hyundai and Kia Ioniq-derived models. Each competitor offers its own balance of luxury, tech and driving feel; Volvo’s Cross Country stands out for its pragmatic Scandinavian design, safety focus and a comfortable, versatile setup for drivers who want an EV that handles both polished streets and modest gravel with equal aplomb.

The EX30 Cross Country has twin electric motors giving it a range of 462km.

I preferred the Cross Country over the standard EX30 as it has a more rugged appearance and versatility.

The Volvo EX30 Cross Country emerges as a compelling option in the electric vehicle market, leveraging Volvo's renowned engineering prowess and commitment to sustainability. With its robust platform, advanced battery technology, and engaging driving dynamics, the Cross Country offers a compelling blend of performance and practicality for eco-conscious drivers.