Volvo Car Malaysia has not introduced a brand-new model in its lineup for quite a while. However, in 2024, Volvo Car Malaysia finally launched an entirely new model: the all-new Volvo EX30. Co-developed with Geely, the EX30 shares its platform with the Smart #1 and Zeekr X. This collaboration helped Volvo develop the EX30 more affordably, resulting in a competitive price. The main question is: have Volvo’s engineers given it enough unique characteristics to distinguish the EX30 from its siblings? Let’s find out.
Based on looks alone, the EX30 is a stunning vehicle. Volvo has cleverly integrated its design language into this compact package, showcasing a simple yet modern design philosophy. This gives the vehicle a youthful vibe, which will undoubtedly appeal to younger and female buyers. What I particularly like about the EX30 is its footprint—it’s actually a fairly small vehicle by modern-day standards, making it ideal for city driving. Navigating tight roads, I never feel anxious about damaging the vehicle. To put it into perspective, the EX30 is no larger than your average Toyota Vios or Honda City—just slightly taller. 
The EX30 showcases Volvo’s latest design language, with newly designed LED headlights. This modern take on Volvo’s iconic Thor headlight design adds a fresh touch. However, the EX30 lacks matrix LED high beams, a feature I expected since the Smart #1 Brabus includes them. It seems Volvo is prioritizing affordability with this choice. 
As for the taillights, the EX30 features full LED units split into upper and lower sections, giving it a distinctive appearance, especially at night. I also appreciate that Volvo chose not to include a light bar, setting it apart from competitors. Completing the look are 19-inch rims wrapped in 245/45 R19 tires. While these rims are visually appealing, they appear slightly oversized for such a compact vehicle. 
There are two ways to unlock the EX30. The first is the traditional method using a car key. However, if the key is too large or inconvenient to carry, an NFC card can be used instead. While the NFC card adds convenience, the lack of buttons on the key is inconvenient. Additionally, the only sensor for unlocking the vehicle is located on the driver’s side, meaning you must always walk to that side to unlock it.
Once inside, you’re greeted by an ultra-minimalist interior—even barer than that of the XC40. To create a more open feel, the EX30 includes a panoramic sunroof, allowing more light into the cabin. However, under the hot sun, the cabin can get uncomfortably warm to the point of being nearly unbearable. 
The dashboard is so minimalistic that there’s only one screen. Volvo has removed the instrument cluster, integrating everything into the infotainment screen instead. Surrounding the screen, the dashboard materials are made from recycled plastics, highlighting Volvo’s commitment to sustainability. However, they don’t feel as premium as those in higher-end Volvo models. On the bright side, the fit and finish are solid, with no noticeable panel gaps. While the interior may lack the premium feel of higher-end Volvos, it aligns well with the vehicle’s price point.
Given the small cabin, Volvo put a lot of thought into storage solutions. There are plenty of hidden compartments, allowing owners to keep their belongings organized and out of sight.
The infotainment display measures 12.3 inches and is divided into three sections: the top serves as the instrument cluster, the center houses the infotainment system, and the bottom features climate controls. While this layout may appeal to tech enthusiasts, I’m not a fan—particularly because the instrument cluster feels cramped within the display. Checking my speed requires me to glance far from the road, which I find distracting. Volvo should at least equip the vehicle with a heads-up display if they want to maintain this minimalist interior design.
The infotainment system, which controls most of the car’s functions, is high-definition and runs the latest Android Automotive system. While it doesn’t support Android Auto, it offers Apple CarPlay for iPhone users. Android users can sign in with their Google account to use built-in Google Maps, which even provides battery percentage estimates for your destination. If preferred, Waze can also be downloaded and used natively. Additionally, the system includes a 360-degree camera to assist with parking. Quick-access buttons for climate controls are located at the bottom of the display. 
The infotainment system is paired with an impressive Harman Kardon sound system, with most audio coming from a sound bar integrated into the dashboard. Additional speakers are strategically placed around the cabin, creating an excellent in-car audio experience. The best place to enjoy this system is from the front seats, which offer ample adjustments to ensure a comfortable ride. Despite the vehicle’s compact size, the driver’s seat provides a commanding view of the road. Over long distances, the front seats remain highly comfortable, though the range of adjustments is somewhat limited compared to larger Volvo models. 
Moving to the rear, the seats are on the smaller side. Upon getting in, I noticed that I was sitting in a squatting position rather than a conventional one. While this may not be an issue on short trips, it can become uncomfortable over long distances. The seat cushion is also quite firm, further reducing comfort for rear passengers. The rear seats comfortably accommodate two adults, but three might feel cramped. On the bright side, headroom and legroom are decent despite the vehicle’s compact size. However, the absence of rear AC vents means passengers in the back may not receive sufficient cooling. 
The EX30 offers 318 liters of boot space, which is acceptable for small families. Compared to the Smart #1, the EX30 has a slightly smaller boot. There’s also a hidden storage compartment under the boot floor for valuables. Folding down the rear seats expands the space to 904 liters. 
Under the hood, there’s a 7-liter storage compartment for items like charging cables, keeping them separate from the car’s interior. The EX30 is powered by two electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear. These are fueled by a 69 kWh battery, providing a theoretical range of 450 km. The two electric motors produce a maximum power of 428 hp and a peak torque of 543 Nm. This allows the EX30 to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, with a limited top speed of 180 km/h. 
In terms of performance, the EX30 is anything but slow. It accelerates rapidly, making it a powerful vehicle. However, its driving experience feels very similar to the Smart #1, as both share the same drive software. The energy recuperation system lacks a coasting feature when releasing the throttle—something available in the XC40 but absent in the EX30.
With the same battery size as the Smart #1, the range remains similar. On a full charge, the vehicle displayed a maximum range of 390 km, though in real-world conditions, you can expect around 350 km. After driving approximately 500 km, my average energy consumption was 17.8 kWh/100 km, according to the onboard computer.
The EX30’s suspension tuning is a significant improvement over the Smart #1. It absorbs road imperfections more effectively, providing a smoother, more composed ride—especially useful on Malaysia’s pothole-ridden roads. Handling is another strong point, with direct steering that provides good feedback. However, I found the steering to be on the lighter side, and I wish it had more weight for better confidence.
Braking performance is similar to the Smart #1. While sufficient for daily driving, hard braking requires extra distance, and the transition between regenerative and physical braking feels vague. A more prominent braking feel would improve driving confidence.
While the EX30 is fully equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, I was disappointed that the lane-keeping assist reactivates every time the car starts. I expected Volvo to allow it to stay off once the driver disables it, as is possible on the XC40.
At RM228,888, the EX30 is priced very competitively. Based on looks alone, it’s a great buy. I love its design, as Volvo’s new design language is very appealing. However, I wasn’t a fan of the software, which I believe Volvo outsourced. The interior also feels too simplistic for my taste. As for driving dynamics, I expected it to feel closer to the XC40 rather than the Smart #1. That said, if you’re looking for a small, premium-brand SUV that stands out, the EX30 is a solid choice. Its size makes it perfect for navigating tight city streets.
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