Volvo EX30 review - cheapest, quickest & BEST!

[@carwow]

What would you rate the EX30 out of 10?

[@matthewnorman9803]

We need a Hyundai Getz on carwow day 325

[@HotwheelsUser]

7/10, definetely a good reliable car.

[@matthewnorman9803]

Please carwow please a generation drag race PLEASE PLEASE CARWOW

[@Mamin28490]

8.5/10

[@subhashpaturi]

Nein out of 10

[@kamallica]

The lack of instrument cluster, wing mirror adjusters etc is not for a minimalist cabin. That's what they want you to think, it's clever marketing. It's cost saving. That's why there isn't a heads up display also. People are impressed by the screen in a Tesla - a screen is much cheaper than good quality buttons/dials. These cars look cheap.

[@ezy.from.now.on.]

Well you have to remember how much the batteries cost to make and produce. To make them cheaper for the masses they gave to make cuts on things like that and having everything in the screen helps that. It's unavoidable if regular ppl want to own one.

[@milinddixit6583]

I mean that is marketing's job anyway to spin positives into a negative. But yeah - it is clearly cost cutting. Edit - I mean negatives into a positive 😂

[@topperthehorse]

Couldn't buy it with this terrible interior design.

[@robinholmescnx]

Electric is no good. Anyone who buys one will regret it. Dare you charge one in your internal garage? Or even close to your house? Could you sleep at night?

[@pm8465]

I agree it's cost cutting and minimalist isn't for me. If the Volvo is so good that you can take your eyes off the road to play with the screen does that mean I can use my mobile phone!!!!

[@adrianvladmladin1005]

For an age when safety is number 1 priority, some of the new cars seem to do the exact opposite with the constant disappearance of physical buttons.

[@wolfgangpreier9160]

physical buttons are not made for safety. Just the please your old mind.

[@richardschultzberg562]

True, but most accidents don't happen because you try to change your mirrors... People using phones while driving are well...

[@jamesulbot]

Not having a speedo in front of you is so offputting

[@wizzyno1566]

​@@wolfgangpreier9160 change isn't always good. Wheels are round for a reason

[@wolfgangpreier9160]

@@wizzyno1566 why? Maybe 42 sided is better? If you stop developing you are already dead.

[@molocouk]

I cannot emphasise how much I hate the fact that you have to do EVERYTHING via the screen. Why are car manufacturers trying so hard to be clever. Just keep some things simple.

[@katdes7305]

Cost cutting

[@williamwood8549]

I wholeheartedly agree. It feels silly that looking at your phone while driving is illegal, but they're fine with manufacturers showing critical driving info on a screen that's off to the side from your field of view.

[@ozbloke36empty87]

Can't even do what he is doing in Australia, you'd be fined for touching the screen whilst driving, so that is pointless and stupid having everything on the screen for rules like our country.

[@claranymark]

it's because it's cheaper than putting buttons and switches in it

[@silkbuttons]

@@ozbloke36empty87is the Volvo here in Oz the same? You have to do everything off of a screen??

[@Torresmo33]

Don't use your phone while driving. Unless your phone is a giant and obnoxious tablet in the middle of the cockpit and makes unavoidable for you to look at it and open a thousand different tabs and menus to simply adjust the A/C fan speed

[@t._._._.]

And folk wonder why the number of accidents, and insurance costs are increasing!

[@onepunch7632]

​@@t._._._.My 2020 S60 also has AC controls on the center screen, along with everything else except the speedo and tac, and it's not difficult to adjust, especially once you've done the initial setup and driven it a couple times to get familiar with their locations. I had a 6 hour drive a couple weeks ago and I adjusted the AC temp 2 times, once before I started the trip and again that evening when it started getting cooler. The average person isn't adjusting it every 15-30 minutes but if you must, you just hit a button on the steering wheel and say "set temp to 70". In reality, the center screen controls are a nothing burger but I don't like the fact there's no speedo directly in front of the driver.

[@Mew-ip3iy]

Wont using Voice Control will solve 90% of the problem ?

[@onepunch7632]

@@Mew-ip3iy yes

[@Torresmo33]

Yes, after they created the problem to give a half-assed solution. I mean, even the glovebox is opened through a button on the screen. It's ridiculous.@@Mew-ip3iy

[@mavester]

I like that they've designed a system to tell you to look at the road.....when they've put everything you need to know on a screen that's out of your eyeline. Genius.

[@rutukedarbhagwat1746]

Their genius is frightening

[@Narinjas]

I hope, with the Off-Road/Cross-Country version, they will add the HUD on the top trim, and as an option for the lower trims. (We need a foldable sun/moon Roof cover matched with the interior material, but with reflective side to the sky for lower heat in the harsh summers we are getting now.)

[@bishwatntl]

Maybe the designers don't drive?

[@chrisogrady28]

It's consumer's and journalist's fault, everybody thinks ugly screens are futuristic and don't value bespoke switchgear and dials anymore, which is very sad. In 20 years time all these lumps will be buggy and useless, while a 20 year old TVR today is still beautiful inside

[@reecereed8131]

In the UK it's illegal to use or touch your mobile phone while driving, Yet playing with a 12" iPad is OK , Funny world.

[@garyallsopp6369]

I had a Citroën C4 & a C4 Picasso and the central instrument clusters were great. However, 1 - There was very little else going on on the screen to confuse you, and the screen was positioned closer to the windscreen so was nearer to your line of sight, and 2 - The indicator & other warning lights were positioned on the fixed hub steering wheel, so were in your eyeline.

[@SquarelyGames]

I had a C3 Picasso and loved the middl display. But it was very close to my field of view so you never had to move your head to see it. Nothing like this, where it is closer to the center and much lower while in the C3 it was still positioned so you could watch the road at the same time.

[@T4lyX]

This Volvo perfectly captures what's wrong with modern cars, having to do everything through a screen would drive me insane.

[@Kurre.]

It’s not hard to say hey google heat my seat…

[@colonelccccc]

@@Kurre. unless you're married with children all in it, good luck with that

[@colonelccccc]

For this price, I was expecting a dashboard, a glove box button...etc etc, a normal car you know.

[@tz7710]

Volvo/Polestar are Chinese brands now.

[@metriclondon]

if not imagine having to tap twice? The horror. @@colonelccccc

[@billygtheonly]

Not having a proper cockpit with instrument dials right in front of you gotta be on of the stupidest ideas ever. Otherwise, great looking car as usual from Volvo, i just wished for higher range though.

[@mtrezaie]

I cannot believe Volvo did it. I have driven Tesla and having information in front of you is essential IMO.

[@arandomguynamedDylan]

Tell that to Tesla

[@whotf888]

I wish it wasn't made like a fancier Tesla. Just a lot of cost-cutting going on.

[@wolfgangpreier9160]

Its one of the best ideas ever! Now lets leave those stalks in the bin of french oppulence.

[@MorrisIriga]

Cost savings marketed as minimalism

[@whotf888]

I have to say this: there comes a point where the technology gets in the way of the actual driving. Even the car recognised that Mat is getting super distracted. Just ridiculous. "Minimalism", yeah, more like cutting corners.

[@JoriDiculous]

yeah. Notting wrong with having buttons for the normal things. Even a Citroën from the 70's are more futuristic and safer than this "everything controlled from a centre screen", with all the important controls on the steering wheel.

[@hansb7020]

what to expect from a chinese car?

[@bismayparida2115]

​@@hansb7020Chinese?

[@Darthozzan13]

@@bismayparida2115 Volvo is owned by Geely, a chinese company and modern Volvos are manufactured largely in China

[@hansb7020]

@@bismayparida2115 produced and developed in China. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_EX30

[@jakobryden]

Pulling out trying to sort out the menus etc is the most relatable thing in any car from the past 10 years. Buttons and dials desperately need a come back

[@wolfgangpreier9160]

You are just afraid of the future. I recommend Ford Cortina for your daily use.

[@wizzyno1566]

​​​@@wolfgangpreier9160change isn't always good. And insulting people who just have a different opinion than you makes you an asshole.

[@fishndive1961]

Or just do the right thing and adjust it before you pull out.

[@MyRealName]

It should be regulated by governments at this point. It's getting ridiculous and dangerous, same as using a phone to type a text while driving.

[@MyRealName]

@@wolfgangpreier9160 You don't sound nearly as smart as you think you do. ..unless you're being sarcastic of course.

[@Sam-ep7sc]

This looks like work-in-progress. Maybe in a couple of years they’ll have the bright idea of putting a few knobs and switches in for everyday functions, and placing the speedo where it belongs.

[@yslee1401]

Allowing Chinese cars to be imported is like hiring a convicted pedofile as your nanny

[@1982craigyboy]

I assume you said the same about the mini then? Terrible design car with the speedo not where it belongs. Funny how people only complain about things when it confirms their pre existing bias…

[@Sam-ep7sc]

@@1982craigyboy Yes, the Mini’s speedo has always been in the wrong place. There were excuses for this in 1959 (casual attitudes to road safety: production cost-cutting so that it needn’t change for RHD and LHD), but to have it there in the BMW version is just a whimsical fashion statement.

[@1982craigyboy]

@@Sam-ep7schaving owned both versions of the mini, and when worked for main dealers driven Citroens and Renaults that had the speedo mounted centrally I don’t understand what the fuss is about. You can look without moving your head, it’s a glance of the eyes to see it… a bit like when you glance your eyes down below the line of forward vision to look through your steering wheel at the dial 🤷🏻‍♂️ at no point has it ever taken any further effort to see. The real reason everyone is up in arms is because it’s an excuse to support their anti progress mindset. No 2 ways about it

[@Sam-ep7sc]

And I say that the best place for a speedo was established 100 years ago and it's futile to keep thinking of different places to put it. But let's agree to differ and part on friendly terms.@@1982craigyboy

[@anomuumit]

It seems more and more necessary for legislation to make mechanical switches mandatory for certain functions in a car e.g. the blinker and windscreen wipers in a stalk (where you can easily and quickly use them), adjusting mirrors etc. and of course to have the speedometer to be in front of the driver (like in a HUD or regular instrument cluster). This current penny pinching trend to put everything behind a screen is just objectively more unsafe.

[@peteroz7332]

naah... everything leads to one thing -> all of us (the pleb) aren't supposed to have cars in next 10-15 years time.. 🤔🤷‍♂️ 15minute towns etc.. it's better for you if you decide ti abandon vehicles "on your own thought" rather than them forcing you... wouldn't you think? 🤔😲

[@tz7710]

Volvo/Polestar are Chinese brands now.

[@RacingAnt]

How often do you adjust your mirrors? Once they're in the right place, why would you mess?

[@RacingAnt]

Oh, and there's no difference between looking down at the speedometer, or down and to the side. Both take exactly the same amount of time with your eyes off the road. This from driving original minis, a BMW Mini (both with central speedos), and 21k kms in a Tesla. It's distracting for like 2 minutes until your brain learns where to send your eyes.

[@peteroz7332]

@@RacingAnt hey, punk, cone back here in a few years -> when you eventually aquire the driving/driver's licence ... and get a few thousand miles under your belt.. 👍💪

[@m_ism]

I absolutely hate this trend of putting every possible control you can manage onto a screen --it makes it so much more dangerous to adjust any settings while driving because you have to actually look and you can't just play it by feel like you can wit buttons.

[@trojanorse]

It's cheaper to manufacture. Thats why they do it.

[@jwvandegronden]

Best EX30 review to date!! Love the shout-out to Bert/Gert/... who is retiring after the release of the EX30. What a lovely gesture! Really hit me in the feels! Good feeling... Thanks guys! It was a bit different, with the close ups, even more free spirited flow and the interaction with the cameraman. It all felt much more inclusive, and somehow that extended to me as the viewer! Really special and absolutely hit it out of the park, this one! Loved every second of it, and not even because of the subject matter, which is a lovely semi affordable yet gorgeous and convincing EV... It was the warmth. Really! More like these please!! Thank you all so much! *Rating? I think a solid 8! The car that is. Review? is a cum laude performance of all people involved **_all the way up to the suspension engineer and by association the entire staff of the manufacturer!_*

[@Bauer2sPro]

Faster than most sports cars 😳🦾

[@Beer_Dad1975]

More Chinese junk from Geely owned Volvo.

[@Steve-Cross]

It is probably best set the wing mirrors before you start driving LOL. I do agree the speedometer should be in direct line of sight, especially in an electric car where the engine noise doesn’t represent the speed you are going. I imagine the heads up display would be a thousand pound upgrade, but I find it invaluable in my Qashqai.

[@razvanlex]

Doesn't have head-up display even as an option. The speedometer is better placed than a normal car, it's in the peripheral view because the tablet is higher on the dashboard. Normal speedometer it's too low, it's more dangerous than this, because you look down on it. Try for yourself. But a head-up display should be there like in a Smart #1 or #3 which are better cars in my opinion.

[@haziqehsan]

Button more usefull and saving so much time

[@sinemcelik2161]

Minimalistic means cost saving in the car industry 😂

[@PaulTC777]

true and made in china sharing platform with many chinese cars means cost savings too

[@neilmurphy845]

Exactly

[@joemcnamara4774]

Volvo are open about this, their aim was to bring people very competitive range, quality, comfort and tech for a low price. Which meant sacrificing some things and making it simple (lowering production costs) They also offer an XC40-recharge or a C40 which are for those who expect more, and are willing to pay more for it. Volvo has always also aimed for minimalism, they are Scandinavian after all!!!

[@LAndrewsChannel]

@@joemcnamara4774 But it ain't either "very competitive" nor "low price". It matches Telsa Model 3 prices and compromises but with crappier range and equipment. The only good thing about it is the brand and (probably) materials quality. Other competitors offer more compeling options if you don't want a Tesla like Hyundai, Renault, Stellantis or even VW.

[@kaanarmutcu6740]

@@joemcnamara4774 have you seen the new electric xc-90? it looks as cheap as this

[@assarstromblad3280]

This car seem to be a love/hate car for many people. I like it from what I have seen yet, and I also love that they put the yellow color in there. With a heads up display and a few more buttons, maybe even programmable to keep the number down, this car would be perfect. It still seems like a really good car, and judging from the price/performance comparison it is the most bang for the buck you can get today.

[@LAndrewsChannel]

A Tesla Model 3 is still a better value. More practicality, equipment, range, power for the same price and pretty much no additional downsides (maybe except it being a sedan, but that is debateable). People will get this if they really want a Volvo (or they get a hefty discount as an existing customer) otherwise it doesn't make a lot of sense considering the competition and the cost cutting they've done here (no information in front of the driver, everything integrated into the touchscreen, small glovebox etc.). If they undercut the competition or traded in power trunk for a HUD and more buttons at least in the mid trim level, maybe I would consider seriously recommending it, but as I see it now, it's comparable or not worse than a Tesla Model 3/Y.

[@assarstromblad3280]

Interesting, because at least where I live, the teslas are much much more expensive than the EX30, are slower, and have only slightly more range. And I guess it is a preference thing but I think this car looks 10 times better than any tesla, both interior and exterior.@@LAndrewsChannel

[@LAndrewsChannel]

@@assarstromblad3280 I don't know where you live, but adding just the extended range to the base trim of the EX30 makes it match the price of the cheapest Model 3 base according to the online configurators of both. Compared to this base extended range version of the EX30, a Model 3 base might be 0.8s slower to 100 km/h, which is pretty much irrelevant for daily driving, but it still has 10% more range which is less irrelevant. Besides this, to match all the equipment in the Tesla, you need to step up to the highest trim level (which pretty much maches Model 3 LR's price). Volvo does not even include heated seats in the MID trim level... The look of the car is irrelevant when it comes to a "bang for the buck" discussion.

[@assarstromblad3280]

@@LAndrewsChannel from what I can find, the model 3 base model with RWD (2023 model) starts at 40600 dollars, the EX30 single motor extended range starts at 36000 dollars. The range difference isnt big at all, at about 7 miles difference in favour of the tesla according to WLTP, and 3 miles difference in favour of the EX30 according to EPA. The ex30 is 15% quicker to a 100 even if it has slightly less horsepower. The rest of the features are quite similar. In my opinion, looks are a big deal even for a bang for the buck comparison, because lets be real here, no one buys a shitty looking car if they can pay only a little more for a better looking one, but of course that is subjective. The only thing the EX30 doesnt have that the tesla has is the self driving tech, and that is coming eventually. At least to me and to many comparisons and reviews I have seen it seems the EX30 is just overall better than the model 3, unless you really want the special features of the tesla.

[@LAndrewsChannel]

​@@assarstromblad3280 The base EX30 does not have: - panoramic roof - heated seats - heated steering wheel - 360 cameras - power trunk - electric seats - digital key - 2 zone climate system - wireless phone charger The Tesla has all of that last time I checked. I don't think you can say "the features are quite similar". This obviously assumes the base model offered in the US is the same as the one available in the EU that I can already configure. Funny you mention EPA range because I am comparing against the refreshed Model 3 that isn't available in the US (and most people agree it improves all aspects of the car) that has a bit over 30km more range, not just "7 miles". The aspect is subjective, but bang for the buck is not. You have a set of features for x amount of money. If a competitor offers more/better features for a similar amount of money then that competitor is a better value. Only if everything else is at least similar between options you consider looks. Everyone that does not choose cars like this is wasting money.

[@logicerrormusic]

Man, feels refined, well built, range is acceptable, comfort is undeniable, but all those small things like no speedometer, all adjustments on screen, all information on screen just bring it down to a giant NO. This car has all the wrong trends of EVs all packed together.

[@MyRealName]

Those are not small things by any means..

[@fug33]

Range can only be considered acceptable if you are restricted to city driving - in my country, this car would be useless with its minisucle range

[@tren133]

In those markets which will also receive the EX30's sister car, the Zeekr X, I would pick the X for sure. Same size as the EX30, but nicer interior, plus it has a driver's screen, plus it has an HUD, plus the center screen can move over and become a passenger screen, plus it has more physical buttons, plus it has an available freezer in the center console, plus the rear seat bench can fold upward (like the rear bench seat in pickup trucks) to create additional storage.

[@markbartoszek8585]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't the Model 3 and Y also have everything on one screen?

[@re14437]

⁠@@fug33really?! I live in Texas and this car would be fine. It has a longer range than both of my daughter’s ICE cars. But, Texas has a pretty significant charging infrastructure. Maybe you live somewhere where you would need to charge at home?

[@ricardopatacho6059]

In those sort of junctions, when there's no priority signs, usually the person on your right has the right to go. That's why they used the horn

[@AliasVeter]

Not usually, always.

[@P--B]

Lucky the police car didn't pull them up on it

[@davidcarvalho8067]

To adjust the mirrors, adjust them before you start driving, or if you forget and are already driving, voice command “adjust the left mirror” and simply adjust with the control on the steering wheel without having to turn your head

[@markjamesrodgers]

Great review! Thank you for spending time on really evaluating the suspension on different road surfaces! Few reviewers do that.

[@hellotheregeneralkenobi365]

Just casually going 0-60 in 3.89 seconds... in the wet... in a Volvo... SUV.

[@Armeanu91]

Calm down. It's an overgrown Golf. Calling everything an SUV needs to stop. It is very cool though. Just not an SUV.

[@carlosmiguel4756]

Yep...almost as fast as a BMW M5 which does 3.4 seconds. In a Volvo...SUV...crazy!

[@kyronrc]

The wonders electricity makes hey

[@ChakibTsouli]

SUV is marketing name for glorified sedan. Look at any SUV from any brand and you'll se it's got the same engine as its equivalent sedan, and it'll also be very likely FWD. BUT, I might forgive that if the car was AWD, which it is in this case.

[@PaulTC777]

​@@kyronrc It gets smoked by a Mini JCW around corners, a Lotus Elise or an Alpine A110. Straight line performance is for NOOBS.

[@christopherlangdon8091]

I was feeling a bit chilly in my Vauxhall Insignia this morning so I raised the temperature on my side by turning the temperature knob up one degree. My technophobic wife has no trouble turning the switch on her side to get the temperature she likes. Goodness knows how many children at a bus queue I would have ploughed through if I had attempted the same operation in the Volvo EX30.

[@Carshunter99]

19:20 mat: *ignores yield sign*. also mat: “idk whose fault that was🤷🏻‍♂️” 💀💀

[@migteleco]

Exactly, he ignored a "Ceda el paso", as we called it around here. 😅

[@MrZhampi]

I really like how you showed the lights in the dark! Noone does that. One thing i miss in lretty much wvery car review video from anyone is the headlight test in the dark. Like how far, wide, high the beams go, how well (or bar) the matrix loghts work when trying to blank parts of the beam for drives in front of the car etc...would be great if you could incorporate it in the videos!

[@iawdw]

Teslabjørn frequently does these lights tests

[@MrZhampi]

@@iawdw good to know! Will check him out, thanks

[@MrAlexrowlands]

No one complained about the original Mini speedo being out of your eyeline ! That was also low in the car and was absolutely fine.

[@benjaminsmith2287]

It is in a number of cars. Several Toyota Prius, the Nissan Quest from a few generations ago as well.

[@Mpr47276]

Volvo badging slapped onto a Geely😵‍💫

[@wolfgangpreier9160]

Yes, Good! Next year XPeng will launch the new VW ID and SAIC will deliver the better Audi.

[@shauros92]

I love when Mat comes to Spain cause you know he's gonna roast literally everything he sees wherever he goes 🤣

[@chrisaskin6144]

The chance to touch an icon on a giant screen, scroll to another icon and touch that, and then adjust the mirrors by controls on the steering wheel is a clincher for me. It's a game changer. Technology eh, wow! I've a Volvo S60 and I can't believe I've 'struggled' all these years with a positively archaic electronic miniature joystick on the driver's door to adjust my mirrors.

[@brickisland6353]

I always like Volvos. And this could be a good one, if they had a speedometer in front of the driver, and you haven't got to do all the adjustments from the big screen. It's to minimalistic. I want a couple of buttons that I can operate without taking my eyes of the road. We can clearly see how much Matt has to look at the screen instead of the road.

[@savedfaves]

Volvo missed a trick by not having the central display in landscape orientation for streaming apps, games, and the windscreen is landscape, so it even looks better.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

You realise Volvo is Chinese now?

[@brickisland6353]

@@Beer_Dad1975 Chinese money, much of development is still in Sweden. But sadly a lot of the manufacturing is done in China.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

@@brickisland6353 The EV's are mostly Chinese design and manufacture too - Geely are basically "experts" in EV's - not that they actually make any good EV's - one of the cities in my country just bout a pile of their shitty EV busses and most of them have already broken down.

[@michaelsouders4026]

There is a HUD, it’s just set to permanently display “Harmon Kardon” upside down and backwards. 😂

[@harriettanthony7352]

THANK YOU! I saw this 'word rubbish' all thru the video, and paused it to see if I could translate it

[@Donald_Trump0614]

Volvo are making some bangin' cars these days. My only complaint would be that infotainment system - not a fan of not having a drivers display and everything as buttons within menus

[@astrolopitekos]

Carwow with the best videos. From the intro to the swingers 😂 I wonder if EU regulations will force manufacturers to move info to the dash/headup display instead of a central big screen with a million menus

[@joemcnamara4774]

renault and citroen have had speed information mounted on the dash rather than infront of the driver for decades, as much as I think it should be in front of the driver, I can assure you it will not be changed. Volvo will have also designed this car almost entirely around the EU/UK market.

[@lbnewell23]

The only thing putting me off this car is the Tesla style lack of gauge cluster but as far as EVs go if you’re not looking to spend 50k+ this is the one I’d go for without a doubt. Looks absolutely fantastic and goes just as well according to mat

[@beverridge]

Same here

[@dyskrasia]

Shouldn't the value be the thing that is putting people off the EX30? It seems rather bad to me. A Model 3 is almost the same price as the base EX30 extended range, is almost half a meter longer and a bit wider. Goes a lot further too, similar performance and is quite a bit more complete than the base model EX30. I mean this is an alright car for 2 people that don't bring along anyone in the back for the most part, but for that I think it's still too expensive. On top of that, child seats fit poorly in an EX30 due to the design, so you can forget about this one as a family car for the most part. The EX30 with it's 4.2m length is about the size of a Renault Captur. I don't think the price is right for a rather small car with 280km/170miles of actual range. The extended range is quite a bit more expensive and because of that competes even with much better EV's. And then there's still cars out there like a Kia Niro EV, that go as far as the extended range EX30, they might not be as fast, but they do have the better and more usable interior.

[@lbnewell23]

@@dyskrasia I’m a car lover so things like looks and performance are important to me. I was sharing my opinion and for the things that I care about this trumps any EV near the price range. I don’t need a huge car and if you’re a customer for one of these you’re not a customer for a giant EV because theyre so expensive

[@ooweesaler]

Cars great but I won't buy Chinese where i have a choice.

[@chrisness]

@@dyskrasia It'd be more fair to compare the Model Y to this, not the Model 3

[@barneyreichman127]

Great video, well done. I wonder if some people are missing the point that the voice activated tech is the future, so the need for buttons and and levers will not be necessary and therefore full attention to the road will be assured.

[@RolandKontson]

The menu with submenus, lack of useful buttons and nothing behind the wheel or an HUD is a really heavy blow against it. Prefer moving mirrors down when parallel parking etc. Could also use a floor where the battery isn't below the rear seat leg area - not forcing the bend in the passangers' legs.

[@danecowan678]

I love my 2016 2.0TDI Passat. The mirror controls and window controls do exactly what you tell them and they’re easily accessible. My diesel tank takes £90 to fill and gives me 800 miles. For £20 a year I can tax it. The speedometer on the virtual dash is crystal clear in front of me and it doesn’t shout at me when I want to change song. With my manual gearbox I can quickly downshift to 4th gear on the motorway and exploit most little gaps in traffic if I want. The only time it moans at me is if I’ve been driving for 2 hours it suggests i ‘Take a break’. If this is Volvo is the future, I’m not interested 😊

[@markdawson4625]

Struggle using a mobile phone as well, all those horrible touch screen menus confusing are they.

[@markclayton8977]

If Volvo can price these competitively, they will sell very well. YT commenters forget that for most people, cars are like a washing machine (an appliance).

[@heyedddie]

Volvo, are you kidding me? They put everything in that one screen that isn't even close to the driver and then you get warnings from the attention monitoring system?? Mat, I really appreciate that you demonstrate how impractical it can be to eliminate all physical controls if you then can't access them quickly and easily on the screen. Volvo wants to cut costs? As long as there are alternatives, things like these are a deal-breaker for me.

[@Carfan678]

It's $10k cheaper than any other vehicle they sell (at least in the USA) and its electric, they obviously had to cut cost somewhere. Kia's evs cost more so considering that I think they did a good job

[@grizzly._.]

Volvo has Google built-in, I think you could've saved yourself a bit of screen hassle just by asking the assistant. Yeah, in-car voice control is a bit of a joke in general, but Google's is among the best if not the best.

[@HoltAlex]

I use Android Auto's voice controls all the time. Rock solid for 'play xyz music', 'navigate to contact name/McDonald's' etc. Breaks down a bit when trying to dictate a message, but it gives me hope that canned queries like 'increase temperature' or 'turn on heated seat' should be reliable.

[@stevewest4508]

The upside down reflection of the Harman Kardon badge in the windscreen is the only head up display you get and looked very annoying throughout the review.

[@mikejoseph425]

The thing about screens that control everything is that in the UK where the screen is to your left and most people are right handed is that working the screen whilst driving is at best difficult and at worst dangerous. I had an instant the other day when I frightened myself whilst concentrating on the screen drifted onto the other side of the road. Am still feeling punch drunk about it a week later, so. have decided not to use the screen unless stoped in traffic or parked. Am I alone

[@aeobs]

If you can't use your left hand to operate a screen you must be really clumsy and uncoordinated. I've driven so much with the steering wheel on the left hand side that it's basically unconscious mussle memory at this point. First time I got on a UK car it was very uncomfortable to switch gears with my left hand, but it took me no more than 2 hours to get used to it and 2 days to basically master it. I've always took issue with people who can barelly use their off hand.

[@JoriDiculous]

I hate everything controlled from the "centre" screen. It is outright dangerous. When even the cars safety system gets "annoyed" you are not paying enough atten to you driving, the manufacturer have messed up. Buttons for the normal things like ac/heat, glovebox, adjusting mirrors, and speedo in the Dashbord or HUD.

[@aeobs]

@@JoriDiculous That's completely different topic and it doesn't seem like there's much that can be said or done about it. It's just what seems to be the case with most EVs nowadays.

[@mikejoseph425]

@@aeobs you are quite right, I am clumsy and uncoordinated and you are a superstar, but without any manners or class. In a democracy one is entitled to agree or disagree, but trying to insult people because they have a different view on an insignificant issue, just shows who and what you are You might take note from other postings that there are other people that carry my view

[@JoriDiculous]

@@aeobs Wait for it. EV's are climbing rapidly on the accident statistics

[@autochampwandelen]

I also reviewed the EX30, and I have mixed feelings about it, but it is a new chapter for Volvo

[@LaurinKramer]

13:36 I am working in a company which produces recycled plastic products and I can tell you they don’t have to feel cheap. Often they actually can feel better (and sometimes even softer) than most regular plastics. But if you cheap out and still have to maintain the standards for cars (fire and crash resistance, …) it can feel cheap pretty fast. Edit: It is kind of logical that they had to cheap out to get to that price and they tried to make it look nice and expensive, but I think the cost cutting gone too far at some points (missing screen/hud for the driver, missing buttons). Most people are ok with cheap plastics today, but they could have left out unnecessary thing like the electronically controlled glove box (maybe even saves money?!) or the glass roof. I would rather have a speedo in front or me instead of that roof or some fancy led lights…

[@antonbanulski1262]

Small boot, no dials on the dashboard - OVERRATED

[@Gusto4now]

Agreed

[@planflykt]

Go for the XC40 Electric instead?

[@leakmasters270]

Test drove single plus today Pros - styling, ambience, exterior plastic panels texture & finish, boot & storage, screen nav intuitive. Cons - road noise, sound system quality, some cheap plastic in cabin, rear leg room

[@dubkds]

Can't wait till they finally replace the break pedal with a touchscreen menu button. And it must be in a submenu of course.

[@Isclachau]

😂😂

[@marviwilson1853]

Funny. Like it.

[@metalmicky]

Brake.

[@mosestekper7659]

Ain't vehicle regulators worried about the way almost every control in a car is going into the touchscreen? Safety wise that is dangerous.

[@cachememory]

No, only drowsiness detection, lane keeping assistant or monitoring your driving style is relevant.

[@mortajamartinez9176]

As a volvo owner/fan I can´t understand why there is no head up display. It´s not safe to be looking/touching a screen on your side, far away from the road. It would be a 10/10 car, safe, good price, comfy, powerful and decent range. It´s also annoying that has no arm resting on the back seats, to be honest.

[@bob808]

As someone who prefers a sedan, a normal dashboard, and physical controls, I'd rather have a BYD Seal. It's not perfect, but it's cheaper and has a longer warranty (here in Aus).

[@BlackPawGaming]

It doesnt have one pedal drive. Which EV should have.

[@ЭльмарИдрисов-г5э]

I am all for minimalism and hoping to buy an EV in future myself. But an EV that I buy will have to be practical. Buttons (a/c, windows) and dash/screens (behind the wheel) in some places are a must have.

[@tonyn3227]

Good luck finding all that.

[@cachememory]

Or loudspeakers 🙄

[@Father-klovkoski]

Hey maybe you can still find an i3

[@Prudencemthi]

I love how the car looks inside out❤ such improvement of technology wow.

[@tip0019]

A hud can be super cheap, like on the new e-C3. Missed oppertunity. Waiting for the review on the e-C3 😎

[@ChrisGBusby]

Putting all the controls into touch screens in the centre console on a huge screen is just as distracting as being on your mobile phone - far worse when there is no instrument panel in the line of sight. Some time in the future these crazy setups will (hopefully) they will be made illegal.

[@fishndive1961]

Toyota have had a central binnacle on the Yaris and some Corollas for years as have other vendors. But suddenly it's a big deal. As someone with one I can tell you it's not and the only speedo in your line of sight is a HUD.

[@blondeincognito]

@@fishndive1961 totally wrong, for toyota it was physical and in the view of the conductor as really high and with buttons not a tablet to play.,

[@cachememory]

Why not now?

[@LAndrewsChannel]

@@cachememory Because legislation is made in response to something not preemptive. Like when the EU forced Apple to adopt type C ports for their iPhones like the rest of the industry, about 5 years after the port became common.

[@lorenwil]

First car review ever that pointed out a swinger's meeting. Excellent work. 😜🤣

[@bishwatntl]

It seems that the designers of the controls went for style over functionality. Two basics - keep the speedo in front of the driver and make sure functions like mirror control and heating are on real buttons, dials or switches easily accessible.

[@bjrnerlingchristophersen1148]

As cheap as a Tesla model 3 and much smaller without much eq. and no space...

[@Obvsaninternetexpert]

its not style its cost cutting, every physical button they delete saves a shocking amount of money, cos tesla did it they kind of have to now to be competitive

[@nitrama2088]

I was very close to ordering one after going to the Open Day, but the concerns for me were 1/ Ride quality 2/ Range 3/ Insurance cost. Point 1 seems to have been addressed and at least I know what sort of range to expect but the remaining unknown is insurance. As yet it’s not listed (as far as I can see anyway).

[@ChakibTsouli]

Insurance cost will be offset by the government rebates and tax exemptions. Where I live EVs and hybrids are exempt of tax.

[@cp4512]

And the bizarre screen only interaction which looks downright dangerous to use!

[@cp4512]

@@ChakibTsoulithe government tax breaks are all planned to be withdrawn no there are lots of people buying EVs. Plus the cost of electricity, even at home, has gone up considerably in the last few years and is only heading up.

[@christiand.7930]

The “colors” they offer are really amazing /s

[@nitrama2088]

@@ChakibTsouli in the uk insurance in general has gone up considerably, for EVs the increase is more than for ICEs. In fact there are reports that some insurance companies are starting to refuse to insure them. It seems EVs are easier to write off or cost considerably more to repair. I’m not against EVs as I would really like to buy one but this combined with huge depreciation it’s not making it an easy switch to make. And leasing is expensive too.

[@IanTed]

My wife drives a mild hybrid XC40, I thought the technology was distracting in that😬but it is one of the most comfortable, best built and quietest cars I’ve ever driven. But I’ll stick with my very conventional but fun Seat Ibiza for now😂.

[@gohamm8629]

I reserved one in April, and I’m still excited about getting a fully loaded one. I’ve had a few Volvos and my only complaint has been they can be a bit boring - but that 0-60 time should eliminate that!!!

[@Isclachau]

Congrats you will fit right in with the ‘I’m with stupid brigade’ 👍

[@gohamm8629]

@@Isclachau damn, you really must be lonely if you’re making these kinda comments for attention on a video about a new car. I hope you find the friends and emotional connections you so desperately need!

[@Nitenman]

Loved this review, I like it but it does seem like more of a gimmick than a car though and has a lot of safety issues in my mind which is contradictory to Volvo. I think some of the competition are better

[@Mav86asian]

This is not Volvo anymore. It’s Geely.

[@gottagowork]

@@Mav86asian Which explains some of the disregard for safety. Also I'd be weary about buying anything Chinese due to how they're currently misbehaving in every regard (internationally, and against their own and ingenious people, minority groups), and what the consequences might be.

[@rinksdinks]

A fan of the EX30 design and offering but just BEWARE that the cheapest version does NOT have a HEAT PUMP so expect to have at least a 30% reduction of the range when running in colder climates, which is very poor considering the max range is 209 miles!!! So getting only around 140mile range for a £33k electric vehicle is shocking and no excuse and heat pumps should be standard on all EVs.

[@kash748]

30 percent?...that's a bit over dramatic!

[@fordgrunt351]

Have been looking forward to the carwow Volvo EX30 drive review! Top review as usual 👍

[@Spoolingturbski]

Volvo needs to add heads up display immediately. Even better a very small screen. Although I do understand they are keeping the car very obtainable and affordable

[@Isclachau]

Exactly it’s a deal stopper

[@crytill]

My father had a Volvo. The lack of buttons and HUD is just miserable.

[@LencoTB]

I think you should start testing if the trunk closing system can react to obstacles like your arm under the trunk door while it is closing to see if it stops. I’ve tested it on many cars on the Copenhagen eCarExpo and you will be surprised how many cars just keeps closing the trunk door instead of stopping when it detects and obstacle.

[@joshpipe7755]

This is something I've not thought about before. Thanks for the testing you've done!

[@catalinomocea6986]

No disrespect but you guys have god those price and spec comparisons allll wrong!

[@horse_withno_name8211]

I did recently a test drive on a Smart #1 and loved it, now I have narrowed my choice between that and this Volvo. I think selecting most things on the screen or by voice is easy, specially with the Smart because the screen is very big and some things are always in the same place on the screen. As for this magnificent Volvo, I loved it, but it seems a bit harder to find what you want in the screen. It's true that we can adapt and I don't even care about most of selections, except for the speed. Having to look to the side to see the speed is very inconvenient nowadays, because the max legal speed limits are becoming too low and there are speed controls in more in more locations everyday, it needs constant monitoring the speedometer. I 've already lost 2 points in my driver license because of that, the first in 46 years of driving. So I probably stick to the Smart Premium that shows the speed on the windshield.

[@maudsteyner-wu6708]

This is the same with us - we did a test drive on the Smart #1 and loved it too! I have also narrowed down our choice between the Smart and this Volvo but we believe the speedometer is a deal breaker. Have you bought the Smart in the end? Would love your quick opinion! Thanks in advance!

[@yoker84]

EX30 is quite a bit smaller than BYD atto 3, Niro EV and especially iX1, not sure direct price comparison works with in these instances at all.

[@Vorkje2]

Yeah, it’s the same size as an ID3, which incidentally offers much more interior space and a speedometer for the same price.

[@cachememory]

Different horsepower etc the soundbar costs extra 🤦‍♂️

[@beefiron]

Love this car. I'd really like to have seen what the voice commands are like. I think if I had a car where everything was through the screen, I'd use the voice commands a lot.

[@markbiggart1265]

Legislation really needs to be put in place to reverse every single function on the car being put through a tablet. We receive huge fines and points for touching a mobile phone but layers and layers of functions in a tablet are okay?

[@hillbillymal9351]

220 miles range when using 100% of battery ,but ,you are told not to let the charge drop below 30% and don't charge to more than 80% on EVs to keep the battery 'healthy' which means you can only use 50% of the battery so you will only get 110 miles per charge , so on a long trip every 90 minutes you will have to stop for 45 minutes to charge ,

[@NickWainwright6970]

Don’t leave an EV with a low state of charge…but you can use right down as low as you dare, provided you charge it immediately. Also you can charge to 100 % as long as you don’t leave it sitting at this level.

[@cachememory]

@@NickWainwright6970 not completely correct. If you have an aged battery (e.g. 10 years old) you shouldn’t get too low …

[@LAndrewsChannel]

@@cachememory The point still stands that you can use more or less 100% of your battery just like you are doing with a gas tank: don't drive it much after low tank warning comes on.

[@tooltalk]

it's 20%-80% for daily use.. You can charge to 100% when on a long trip .

[@oldloafandyoung]

I'd call that dangerous, constantly looking at the Info screen.

[@ivofixzone6410]

19:20 It's your fault MAt -not paying attention at signs . Did you see the Yield sign ? This is why it's upside down triangle so it can be recognized even from the back .

[@NickAlexTheo]

Hey Mat, about the stats you included on comparison table, the EX30 is either RWD or 4WD if I am not mistaken!

[@morimetz]

he also showed the price for the base model and the stats for the perfomance model, which isnt quite fair

[@pvva88]

I mean seriously, people are complaining so much about the lack of instrument cluster. Please find a tesla model 3/y video and do the exact same thing. But clearly people are buying them like hotcake. I've have spent meaningful time is every Tesla gratefully in their portfolio, with the latest tech at that, and Yes the one screen thing is not great or cute for me. at the very least, As a Volvo owner, i do wish they did some sort of HUD, even one similar to the Mazda ones of the past. This look far more interesting than the Tesla interiors and I appreciate Volvo putting in their style. The doors sound much more solid for sure. the insult for me is the lack of Vents, cupholders, and arm rest in the back, but this is meant to priced below the model 3/y clearly. but that speed and what you get i think is quite fair. Great job Volvo. Not for me, due to size and family, so i'll be paying more for a polestar 3/4 but nice nonetheless.

[@hotbit7327]

The Tesla-style central screen for almost everything is the dumbest thing ever. Should they add a circle on the screen instead of a physical driving wheel?

[@2010SmartFortwo]

The V40 had a rear armrest and cup holders in the middle which was even smaller than the EX30🤔🤨

[@2010SmartFortwo]

@@The86rick yeah we have a v40 and the boot is quite deep. The back seats are quite tight, I’m 185cm and my head touched the headliner. I think the EX30 is a good replacement for someone who has a V40 and wants to upgrade to something similar but electric

[@HerrMittmann]

It's an unwritten law that carmakers aren't allowed to make a car too good. The HAVE to build in some unnecessary quirks like terrible center-screen-controls. Where would we be if this car had a regular dashboard or at least a HUD? And perhaps some more buttons? Too many people would buy it. It would destroy the market - and that's something we cannot afford. So, thank you, Volvo, for taking the burden of dumbing down your own car 🙏

[@XAuroraM]

only 3 mins into the video but i gotta say wow the future of driving really is amazing🤩 thank god for all the driver assists if the procedure to adjust one of your mirrors distracts you this much!

[@metriclondon]

When was the last time you drove along trying to adjust the position of your mirrors?

[@HABO2210]

​@@metriclondonYou need to adjust climate control almost every day, not so practical

[@Stewiedude1]

​@@HABO2210agree on this one. Mirrors, seats, steering wheel you set once and then it's saved to memory. But fan/temp and defog etc you're using adhoc and having buttons/dials is both easier and safer

[@metriclondon]

Yeah I would agree that overall for something like that physical may still be better but it's only two taps. @@HABO2210

[@Mew-ip3iy]

​@@HABO2210 use Voice control

[@JakeDrives1]

I have a 2023 Volvo XC60. Moving everything into the screen and making it even more difficult to sort out than the Sensus cars has been mind numbingly irritating for me. Dimming screen brightness takes 34 layers of screen diving while driving 80mph on the highway in the dark. It’s maddening. I see they went even further with it here. I’m loving the EX30 in every way aside from that. I wish they’d dial it back on the streamlining a bit. Because, well.. Nobody cares but them. People want a usable car. Legacy Volvo buyers will hate this thing. I had a 2021 now a 2023 and I hate the differences just between those two. This has to stop. Sweet little car otherwise. I’m unsurprised by the awesome ride and beautiful interior. I do love my Volvo but this may well be my last.

[@joemcnamara4774]

As a fellow Volvo driver here, I understand what you mean, and I think perhaps the best part of any Volvo has always been how solid, well-designed and simply user friendly they are. Definitely feel less of it with this car, but I also love it in different ways. I think it is classic Volvo/Swedish innovation in terms of the solutions to problems in this car. Firstly I think it has been designed so that it is as simple and low-cost to produce/maintain/repair, hence the wiring only in the centre of the car, which also frees up space for example. This though is all ultimately to reduce costs, which allows them to price it so competitively whilst providing the things that are (let's be honest) more important, e.g. price, range, comfort, tech, safety etc etc. Personally, as a long-term Volvo fan I think this car is pretty amazing, and I admire how well thought-out it is other than the lack of some buttons! Would miss some things though, I have a V40, not as fortunate as your 2023 XC60 but I would love to buy one of these one day! think positively, they are cost-cutting in clever ways and still doing what really matters, could be like Mercedes, making plastic pieces of rubbish made from recycled bits of Renault Megane, when I don't think there is anything good about some new Mercedes other than the badge! At least Volvo are clever about it.

[@Isclachau]

@@joemcnamara4774It’s Chinese

[@joemcnamara4774]

@@Isclachau Geely own them, and they share some parts but Volvo bave been left to themselves for the most part. When designing and building cars and new features. It's the main reason the venture has been so succesful, rather than Ford who made them too similar. Also, what isn't Chinese these days? They make fantastic electric cars, much ahead of us

[@JakeDrives1]

@@Isclachau both my 2021 and 2024 were built in Sweden so riddle me that. I’m sick to death of this foolish narrative. If it weren’t for Geely money Volvo wouldn’t have created the incredibly beautiful products they did starting in 2015 and onward. Yes a bunch of them are built in China now. Many still aren’t. Yes the batteries are from China (as is almost every battery in every EV). Y’all need to get a grip with the China nonsense. I sell reconditioned parts on eBay. Guess what? Mercedes Benz makes half their parts in Mexico. Get a grip.

[@JakeDrives1]

@@joemcnamara4774 well said Joe! Manufacturers go where the work is cheap. I don’t love it but it is what it is.

[@slasher640]

That beautiful e46 coupe at 4:41 😍

[@H.K_R]

Not sure why you would need to adjust the mirrors more than once, or on the move. I don’t see what’s wrong here. Set everything once, then never again. I would 100% buy one if I was in the market for an EV. Just needs a head up display now. Well done Volvo!

[@cbatiau2528]

He’s talking about a new/strange car that you hire/rent at an airport. Duh…. You often can’t get your blind spots correct while sitting in a parking lot and have to adjust on the fly

[@christophersawyers173]

On a long journey, I often move my seat a bit, and then I need to adjust my mirrors. I also move the mirror down a little when reverse parking. Adjusting mirrors should be easy to do on the move

[@amaanahmed3747]

I pre-ordered one, but I definitely wish they offered a heads-up display. Perhaps in the US there will be. I really like how it looks and the compact electric suv form factor

[@Isclachau]

It’s not an SUV and it’s looks are pretty naff. The only impressive thing is it’s acceleration.

[@millmoormichael6630]

You gonna get an awesome car

[@nick_0]

Jealous rn

[@keyserxx]

I've got an Kona and love it, my wish list for this car would be; HUD, normal indicator stick, easier touch screen controls, physical climate buttons, 0 regen coasting mode, otherwise good.

[@andersgyllback4167]

Economy test based on a average speed of nearly 32km/h. Shouldn't it be a bit more realistic speeds than compared to cycling with an electric bike? Part from that, great video, great car!

[@dainius4168]

I'd say that 32 average speed while city driving is spot on to be honest

[@andersgyllback4167]

I just don't find it right to not mention the speed when u talk about the numbers.. :)

[@earthmonkeymagic]

What if the screen fails? Does it mean it's undriveable?

[@TheEvilJarrad]

As someone that thought to themself "why wouldn't I just spend the extra money for the AWD?".... And then thought "well the performance is only another $12k", I can assure you once the novelty of speed wears off, you kind of just want the extra range you paid more to lose.

[@henrids]

So, no gauge cluster AT ALL? Hard pass.

[@youlikeitiloveit3747]

Why do you need a gauge cluster?

[@lindokuhlemoses]

Definitely looks like a car from the future.

[@JohnnyChronic18]

Customers like the center screen but want a HUD why has no one done this yet?

[@8020Alive]

Because voice control gives you the information of all that stuff without taking your eyes off the road. "Hey Google" And in a couple seconds you know everything and can adjust everything. Simple.

[@DeclanZapala]

That Alan Partridge reference just gained you a new subscriber. A-ha!!!!!!

[@carlfrancis8565]

Tend to agree with whoever suggested HUD, as this surely must still be able to provide key driver info using less hardware than a physical screen, placing more emphasis on software. Never used a HUD myself, just like the idea. Does the driver have to refocus to read the HUD?

[@cbcdesign001]

No, the numbers appears several feet in front on you and you can see it in your field of view all the time. Its far safer than a standard gauge in so much as your eyes are always on what is in front of you.

[@ivandoe33]

Mat, how does "any normal family electic Volvo" feel anyway and how many are out there in the market and for how long?

[@MKVD]

Normal EV Volvos feel good, very comfortable. There's the XC40 and C40 recharge, which hsve been around for a few years already.

[@ivandoe33]

@@MKVD and those are family cars?

[@MKVD]

@@ivandoe33 depends on what constitutes a family car for you. They're normal crossovers, not huge but a class bigger than like an Opel Mokka

[@koolkeef]

Volvo took the one thing I hate (the most) about Teslas, and went all-in with it.

[@leeward6762]

Glad to see so many comments critiquing the screen controls...there is hope for humanity yet

[@MAFion]

I don't know about SUV, but as a largish hot hatch ev, this is steal.

[@citynomad13]

There is a reason why there are no buttons in the doors. 1) no cables need to be wired to the doors, making it easier to build and saves cost, 2) less cables means less materials used, hence more sustainable, and 3) once it needs to be recycled it will be easier to disassemble.

[@mohaukhabanyane]

It looks futuristic, which I like. The fact that it's VOLVO means it's probably safe.

[@jonkelly3825]

Thank you for the review. That got me to cancel my order. I cannot live with looking across at the speedo like that. Sadly in the modern age with speed cameras and police at every corner I am watching the speedo every 5 seconds normally. Plus every other function only on the touchscreen will drive me bats (and my wife). I have a Polestar 2 which at least has some switch gear (yes, I am aware it is also a Geely).