EX30 Cross Country
Alternatives: Kia EV3 GT, smart #1 Brabus, BYD Atto 3 Evo, Renault 4 E-Tech, Skoda Elroq vRS
Overview
The Volvo EX30 Cross Country expands the Swedish brand's smallest electric crossover into more rugged territory. Built on Geely's Sustainable Experience Architecture, this variant blends compact urban dimensions with an adventurous, off-road inspired aesthetic. Positioned as the halo offering in the EX30 range, the Cross Country sits above the standard model, targeting buyers who want a premium small SUV capable of trail exploration without sacrificing the brand's Scandinavian identity. It retains the punchy performance of the flagship dual-motor powertrain while adding functional and visual outdoor upgrades.
Design
The front end retains the modern, grille-free aesthetic with digital Thor's Hammer LED headlights, but incorporates heavy black cladding across the front bumper and bonnet shield. Side profile features plastic wheel arch extensions, black door panels, and exclusive 18-inch or 19-inch bespoke alloy wheels paired with higher-profile all-terrain tyres. Increased ground clearance gives it a more assertive stance on the road. At the rear, the black trim theme continues across the lower bumper, complemented by subtle Cross Country badging and standard roof rails for extra cargo versatility.
Interior
Minimalism defines the cabin layout, featuring clean surfaces made from sustainable materials like recycled denim, flax, and tailored wool blends. Front occupants benefit from supportive seats and good forward visibility, but nearly all secondary functions are routed through the central 12.3-inch portrait touchscreen running Google Android Automotive OS. Standard features include a full-width dashboard soundbar audio system, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic glass sunroof. Material quality feels modern, though some hard plastics lower down reflect cost-saving measures.
Performance & Powertrains
Underneath, the Cross Country utilizes a dual-motor, AWD setup producing 422 bhp and 543 Nm of torque. This enables a rapid 0-62 mph acceleration time of 3.7 seconds, with top speed limited to 112 mph. Power is supplied by a 69 kWh NMC battery pack for a driving range of up to 271 miles. Charging capability remains impressive, supporting DC fast charging up to 153 kW for a 10 to 80% top-up in approximately 26 minutes. The chassis features retuned, softer suspension dampening to smooth out rough trails and potholes.
Practicality
Front-seat occupants have adequate head and shoulder room, supported by clever central storage trays and glovebox placement beneath the screen. However, rear-seat legroom is tight for adults due to the 2,650 mm wheelbase. Boot space measures 318 litres with the rear seats upright, extending to 904 litres when folded flat. A small 19-litre frunk under the bonnet provides dedicated storage for charging cables.
Buying
The Volvo EX30 Cross Country starts at £41,260, extending up to £47,060 for fully equipped trim levels. Standard specification is high, typically aligning with the Ultra trim trim grade of the standard EX30 lineup. Key options include 18-inch wheels with aggressive all-terrain tyres and custom exterior color packs. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the base Cross Country trim equipped with the optional 18-inch wheels and all-terrain rubber. This configuration maximizes off-road capability, improves driving over rough terrain, and retains all the driver assistance systems without inflating the price unnecessarily.