2025 VOLVO EX30 PERFORMANCE AWD ULTRA - THE FASTEST AND MOST FRUSTRATING VOLVO EVER

EV Channels Review

The 2025 Volvo EX30 Performance AWD Ultra is Volvo's smallest and quickest SUV, boasting impressive acceleration with 422 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds. However, despite its performance, the reviewer finds the interior materials and overall feel lacking Volvo's usual premium tactility, likening it more to a 'Chinese Tesla copycat' than a traditional Volvo. Key frustrations include an over-reliance on the touchscreen for basic controls, leading to a distracting and potentially dangerous driving experience due to numerous, often irritating, alerts and the lack of physical buttons. While the infotainment is responsive and the handling is sharp for a performance model, the reviewer notes significant understeer and a cramped rear seat. The reviewer suggests that the EX30's true potential would be realized in a less expensive, single-motor variant with more range, rather than the nearly $50,000 performance trim tested, which may not appeal to the target buyer.