The Bad & Ugly, after 4.000 km in EX30 👎

[@AndyB01]

Spot on review, test drove one and simply could not get past the absence of any other instrumentation - that was my #1 reason to walk away from an otherwise very good deal. Volvo have definitely missed a few tricks with this car.

[@sputnik2121]

This is one great onest review with very pertinent and logical comments. Thank you!

[@volvo_kristian]

@sputnik2121 Glad you liked it 👍

[@Mike-gi6ih]

Hi Kristian. I've enjoyed watching your ex30 videos and best of all, you clearly highlight issues that can be improved and fixed. In May I should be able to get the twin ultra up and running.

[@volvo_kristian]

Glad you enjoyed them. Congrats with your upcoming EX30

[@w0rna]

i totally agree the one screen layout does not offer driver any real benefit. I don't mind it but i don't anyone can really argue that it would not be better with more screens. Wheel buttons are really bad. EX30 is still the best car for me even with its faults. Smart#1 is too expensive and nothing else really offers the same stuff for the price. mg4 xpower comes close but it has other issues that dropped it out for me. great video! all good points!

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks 👍 Yeah still a appealing package. Interesting regarding price. Here the #1 are fully loaded "just" 20.000 NOK more than the EX30. So really closely priced.

[@dominiquedrouin7816]

All good comments, but to me you missed the most obvious one: highway driving range. All reports, in not-so-cold weather, can barely reach 250km.... in Canada, that is not far enough, especially not in real winter where the result will be abysmal. All competitors that I can find in that price range all exceed 350 km. I actually have a deposit on one but will likely cancel just because of that.

[@volvo_kristian]

For me the highway range wasn't to bad in these conditions. It's maybe just one other car that really excels in highway driving. Obviously I wish it was better, but for me that's not the focus during EX30 development. Thanks for your input 👍

[@マキシム-r5g]

Have you canceled your order?

[@EdwardBartel]

I LOVE the honesty and candor in this review. Hopefully @volvo watches it and takes notes.

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks man 🙌 Yeah, heard several times that they do

[@MegaStanStar]

On the conclusion points comparing with the competitors, there is one additional aspect rarely discussed, but that has even more significant importance from personal experience: The outstanding quality, service and people of my Volvo dealer that no other brand can match.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah. That right there are a huge point.. And something I can totally agree and relate to. Will probably talk about that in my next video, with a car that's not a Volvo.

[@PaoloItaliano-k9v]

In Warsaw/Poland the quality of Volvo service is very bad. They don’t understand what the word „quality” stands for. I wanna write an email to Sales Director of Volvo to inform him how bad situation with service is

[@andreasschneider4859]

Interesting to see how different things are that annoy people 😝 I'm driving an EX30 Twin for 4.000 km myself now, and can share my bads with you. #5: Seats are OK, but interieur plastic looks and feels cheap. If this is the future, I'll stay in the past. #4: VOLVO, .bring on Apple Car Play as advertised. Google Maps is fine, but I miss my own Media (e.g. Audiobooks) #3: Speaking of sound: the soundbar is mehhhh..... I totally understand the idea that getiing rid of doorpanels reduces cost, but it also reduces quality of sound. The EX30 Sound system is mediocre. #2: Why did VOLVO not put a tiny LED under the charging sockets lid? If you load at night somewhere outside, it's pitch dark in here #1: made VOLVO think that there is no need for a HUD or a little display in direct view of the driver? This is totally bonkers and it is dangerous Some issues that did not make it in the top 5: Once, my center display went all black while driving abroad. The car was up and running. I had to call the VOLVO hotline to ask how a reset is done (left and right buttons on the steering wheel down for 15 seconds) because the manual was not accessible. Remember? SCREEN BLACK. Keyless entry (with this really cheap plastic box) is not working properly. Sometimes the car does not recognize the device, then you have to fundle around with the grips until it unlocks. Annoying.VOLVO was advertising keyless entry by phone. Where is it? Or when? And by the way, VOLVO: there is a lot of work to do in your EX30 App. Good start, but only a start. Average consumption shows wrong values, desired temperature can not be set, no charging limit under 50% and so on. Small ditches but go on. Do I have anything good to say about the VOLVO EX30? Yeah sure. It's a fucking rocket and I love it. Driving that car is pure fun. But that makes it even harder to understand why they screwed up a couple of things. : .

[@nunogouveia2425]

Thanks for the video, you helped me in taking the EX30 out of my shortlist of cars I was considering as my next car. I loose the pleasure and the relaxation of driving with the central screen only, and hate there are no buttons for basics or essentials, even worse if the buttons you have are terrible. If it wasn’t for the screen thing, it would’ve been on my top 2 list. It’s just stupid to make me look into the middle of the car when driving to check the speed and battery. And I’m 40y, healthy and with good vision. My father, 60s , says he would never buy such car because it’s not comfortable and puts a strain on his vision and reflexes. It’s just not comfortable! The size, looks and capabilities of the car are on the other side, very very adequate, so it’s a real shame to have a detail that is so damaging to the relation with car.

[@DEEPNNN]

I had a blast watching your video review. 😀

[@fredericopinto7200]

I do believe that you have added a lot of value around the comprehensive EX30 all around review. I do understand these is your personal perspective, and so it is subjective. Different people have different needs. But what i do love about your content is the practicality you are bringing to the review game. So many reviews I watched (cause I bought an EX30, and only getting in April) and most talk about the exact same things and usually they are all praise, and positive pointers. Cool, refreshing honesty

[@volvo_kristian]

Glad you've enjoyed my content ☺️ Overall it's a really great car. Some niggles, but some of the good overweigh some of the bad. In my opinion. Hope you will enjoy yours 👍

[@jeanbeyers]

Thank you very much for your videos.They learned me a lot on the 'EX30 extended range plus' I can collect next week. Your criticism is well substantiated, I understand them and take them to heart, but they do not make me doubt my choice for this car. Was certainly not your intention to target buyers and potential buyers. Plus and minus are part of a good review.Thank you!

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks so much for your balanced comment. Your spot on. Always some plus and minus, and required for a balanced review

[@richard--s]

You cannot not adjust the brightness of the center display on any head up display like you want at 11:30. And why would you?

[@volvo_kristian]

@@richard--s Don't understand your question.

[@musebrad]

Thanks for your blunt and honest criticisms. Too often reviewers sugarcoat things. I like the styling and price but these issues are probably deal breakers for me.

[@olavssilis4366]

I have driver safety device on my BMW x3 .It’s called my wife .Thanks for the review.

[@dawnebergsteinson4813]

Thank you for pointing these concerns out. I never considered before how small some of the info print is. I am a senior citizen and I don’t wear my reading glasses when I drive. I may not be able to read the screen if some of the pertinent info is small. I’ve ordered a car on spec so will be sure to check that out. Again, my thanks.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, these are just my concerns. Hopefully it will work out for you 👍

[@maxwellbaker8585]

I had a deposit on the EX30 and got a refund on it about 3 weeks ago, and you hit on all my main concerns; the tablet, no HUD, shitty buttons. I own a 2009 V50 and I guess I’ll continue to until they get this right.

[@JamesBlackburn-ed1nd]

Enjoyed the review, thank you. What is the building in the background?

[@volvo_kristian]

Great. It's a water powerplant. Can't remember the English word for it 🤣

[@JamesBlackburn-ed1nd]

@@volvo_kristian thank you, hydroelectric power plant, but regardless a great backdrop. Just started watching your C40 v EX30 video

[@milesyounghamilton]

“Holy moley god damn piece of s**t”… made me crack up 😂

[@volvo_kristian]

Haha 😂

[@MrBamboolegend]

Great video as always. If you didn’t have space constraints (90% of times you’re driving alone or with one other person), would you choose the EX-30 Twin Motor over the Polestar 2 Standard Range RWD?

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks so much 🙌 Well.. depends on price, and how far my daily trips was.. you get a lot more car if you step up in the Polestar 2 or Volvo's XC40/C40. Better car functionality. But price and daily usage would be the most important thing for me if I should decide between these. If you often have longer trips then I would go Polestar every day.

[@nathanlinares5503]

I definitely hear what you say about EX30 vs. the competition you named. Here in the US, we don't have the Smart or the Zeekr, so I think the EX30 will do really well here. Still plan on going through with my reservation

[@volvo_kristian]

Then it's maybe easier.. but despite it's competitors maybe the EX30 are the best either way.. 🤔 I have just driven the #1 and feeling confused

[@borealis75]

Nailed it. Except the winter handling wasn't that great when I quickly tested the AWD in icy conditions. So one more bad thing on top of all the others. And the ugly truth is exactly spot on.

[@volvo_kristian]

What? You didn't enjoy the winter handling capabilities.? Quite surprised to hear that. We're you running studded tires or regular friction? What was the part you didn't like?

[@borealis75]

@@volvo_kristianThe backside went loose even when I tried to accelerate as slowly as I could from the traffic lights. That was not nice during city driving. I was expecting a stable lift-off from an AWD, no matter the tires. I don't actually remember what tires the car had, they must have been friction, even though studs are kind of a standard at this location (Eastern Finland).

[@elmojito]

Great comments on this car. I just went to check this and other Volvo cars this week and was very disappointed with the EX30. Agree with all your points, specially placing everything in one screen which for me is not in keeping with Volvo's heritage of caring for your safety. But I would add that I am 180cm and when I put the driver's seat for my position the back seat is only suitable for a very small child. Yes it is supposed to be a small car but I don't think their completion, specially internal, is that small inside.

[@guybouchard8125]

Since there in no visible antenna (sharkfin) where has Volvo put the antenna? I noticed that EX90 is the same and Polestar 3

[@volvo_kristian]

Good question 😂

[@quintusboonzaaier6199]

Brilliant! Love your honesty 😆😂. Im still getting one later this month.

[@ormgordon]

How tall are you, Kristian? I want a sense of scale of the vehicle.

[@volvo_kristian]

Forgot to include that in my interior review. I'm 170cm tall 👍

[@niveknamwen4210]

This was hilarious - this guy sounds like me when I'm on a rant! Nice to know I'm not alone!

[@mikaelskoglund373]

My Volvo V60 from 2016 has kickcensor, so this is bad you dont have it on this new car. One big step back.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, I find it weird when it has both electric opening and closing. My previous S60 only had electric opening. So had to touch it to close it, but still kick sensor to open 😂

[@xorg4549]

I'm eagerly anticipating the delivery of the EX 30 in the next three months and truly hope they address the issue with the capacitive buttons, which leave much to be desired. Currently, I've been driving the XC40 HP for just over three years. Its only drawbacks, in my opinion, are the fuel efficiency and the stiff suspension. Aside from that, it's an exceptional vehicle-easily one of the best I've ever driven. The sensors are well-calibrated, avoiding unnecessary alerts, and the navigation integrated into the display cluster is flawless. Moreover, my move to Sweden was marked by purchasing a Volvo, a decision that's been part of my delightful automotive journey. Thank you for the true review!!

[@outrospection4all]

Great review- I'm hesitating between xc40 and ex30... i have seen enough reviews and thought it through enough to realise ex30 isn't a family or practical car... pretty compact hatchback for student life is cool and good enough

[@wtfgogu]

Also the Smart and Zeeker versions have matrix lights available which is a big upgrade compared to standard leds.

[@volvo_kristian]

Actually can't understand why Volvo doesn't offer a light upgrade

[@wtfgogu]

@@volvo_kristian or a hud upgrade :)

[@jesperstrkr3356]

How about the video feed from the rear camera having high latency/being laggy. Scary, as I've already hit the wall behind me once from navigating from the video.

[@stephenwilby1179]

Thats a skill issue i am afraid. What do yoh do in cars without cameras? Crash into everything you go near.

[@SurSpir]

I'm currently shopping for a car and I rally like the shale pf the EX30. But I didn't even consider it for a test drive because, IMHO, the absence of a heads-up display (or basic driver monitor), the barebones cabin and the cheap-looking interior gives me (1990s) FIAT Panda or SEAT Marbella vibes.

[@pl2514]

Such a shame Volvo don't get some obvious things right from the start. I really like the EX30 and would buy one but dont want to go through the beta testing for them on such basic functions that should be there already.

[@fredsnyman3096]

Hi Kristian. Although it looks cheap, is the interior at least solid? In other words, no rattles or squeaks? Thanks for a great video.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, it definitely feels solid. Maybe just the air vents that has a cheap feeling when touching it. Beside that it feels solid 👍

[@blcjck8121]

I wanted to like this car, I really did. But looks can't do it alone, which is pretty much all it has IMHO. I would legit go with the MG4 over this, as it is a much better driving experience, and more bang for your buck as well. Even if the Volvo's Android Automotive is miles beyond the MG.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, see your point there. Haven't tested the MG, but looks kinda cool 😎

[@alexshapley8331]

Completely agree re: the horrible single central screen and the lack of a head up display - I find these Tesla style central screens to be an annoying distraction and therefore in my mind completely against the traditional Volvo philosophy of SAFETY

[@robertvickers911]

Have agree with your comment on the screen. 4 ways to access the voice control when in the map screen is ridiculous. Also the driver alert is too sensitive and mutes the radio when it brings up the warning sign which is almost every few seconds and no I am not practising a scene from the Exorcist. The design of the display and the interaction with it is very poor.

[@stephenwilby1179]

Turn it off then.

[@nodidog]

19:52 That isn't what happened - you were distracted by a passion red xc60 (you said it out loud at the time), and the car told you to focus on driving. I don't doubt it's annoying, but for a system designed to spot when the driver is distracted - it actually nailed it. Also, thanks for your uploads - they are very informative.

[@volvo_kristian]

Haha 🤣 Check the video again. I was actually looking to the left, when the XC60 was at my right. And this has happened several times in roundabouts, and also some intersections. So we can't blame the Passion Red XC60..

[@nodidog]

@@volvo_kristian Do Volvo roll out over-the-air updates? It should be fairly trivial for the engineers to make the system a little less sensitive - or ideally, to make it more aware of context like roundabouts and junctions. I hope they improve it.

[@volvo_kristian]

@nodidog Yeah. The EX30 have already gotten one OTA, and another one are coming soon.. Yeah hope they can tweak it, because in my opinion it's struggling in both roundabouts and T -intersections. Both situations where the car wheels could be rolling while the driver does his/hers orientation before heading out. Gotten this pay attention message several times at those situations. Or inner city driving when approaching pedestrian crossings.

[@AlanTov]

I don’t really think Volvo did the single display for ‘sustainability’. They did it because Tesla do it and Tesla make money. The reality is the Tesla approach is dated and people don’t actually like it they suffer it. Volvo and others need to LISTEN.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, you raise a good point.

[@spsmith45]

Thank you. Some viewers might appreciate a more concise, less repetitive delivery of information.

[@volvo_kristian]

Then there's a bunch of other content creators out there 👍 This was a lengthy rant, so take it or leave it

[@florisjanvermeer1525]

My top 5 ulgy & bad: Consumption, Software bugs, Anoying driver alerts, The back seat and The loading outlet. Today we have an internet blackout with de EX30 in Holland, no google maps, no spotify etcetera. A lot of people are complaining, probably a server problem at Volvo. I do like the interieur, nice screen, good sound, very clean and spacious. The cap of the loading port is to big and i don't like the cap and ropes.

[@4lpina]

can you then at least use your phone's google maps via android auto or car play if there's a blackout?

[@ChrisDied]

i wonder how we ever opened boots before electric boot openers... especially when carrying two or more things, i mean seriously? how?

[@volvo_kristian]

Hahaha 😂 Awesome comment.. Not sure how to answer.. Maybe we're getting spoiled and therefore more and more helpless/useless as humans/drivers 🤣 but then again. How did we manage to drive on highways before with Adaptive Cruise Control? Or back into parking spaces without 360 camera? Or lower the windows without a handle? My first car we're pretty Basic. I even had three pedals. Kick sensor are just one of those things I take for granted in 2024. Until it's not there

[@ritafernandes7218]

But for almost the same price as the high end EX30 I can get a base EQA 250 from Mercedes which will open the boot with 1) key fob 2) foot gesture or 3) pressing the button. And it has a luxury interior , arm rest and cup holders for my kids. The ex30 only has looks, nothing else working in its favour.

[@volvo_kristian]

​@@ritafernandes7218Haven't driven the EQA, but check yesterday's video with the 5 good things with the EX30.. Much good, but see your point.

[@BrazierPaul]

Ha ha! I had the same opinion two cars ago but it's amazing how often I 'need' to use it. It's one of several things I will miss when I swap my PS2 for an EX30 but I can't justify the larger car or the extra cost these days!

[@SebastianoPoggi]

Agreed on the steering wheel buttons, they're the worst part of the car by far. I really wish they didn't have that single slab of plastic over them, but they were separated. That is the real issue. They're not really touch buttons, though. They are mechanical buttons - just lightly touching them without pressing doesn't activate them. Just really crappy ones.

[@SebastianoPoggi]

The second most annoying part are the driver alerts that need to be deactivated again all the freaking time. The speed limits are wrong 80% of the time for me, and it's not fun being beeped at constantly because the car thinks I am speeding. Or because I am at an intersection and looking around. Or the driver assist "distance from the previous vehicle" that constantly resets to the default. Lastly, it's very unclear when you're switching between cruise control and pilot assist; this is where a HUD would make a huge difference. The good news is that most of those things are software issues and can be fixed very easily if Volvo wants to. I have reported all of them to the dealer. I hope they do something about them! It's more distracting and dangerous than adding safety

[@humphreyrichards8936]

I liked your honesty and frankness. I share many of your concerns and I hope that Volvo are listening. The rear hatch door button is not a big deal in the UK, but the size of the trunk and its ability to hold the charging cables is. I would love to place an order but the single screen is a deal breaker. I find using a head up display - even a basic one such as on the new Mini Cooper is now essential if you do not have an instrument cluster in front of the driver as we live with a highly regulated and monitored road system in the UK with speed cameras everywhere and speed limits as low as 20 MPH (32 Kph). It is really essential to know your speed at all times. I can overlook some things but the driver awareness system and lack of front facing driver information have made me look elsewhere.

[@stephenwilby1179]

A glance to the left for the speed is no diffrence to a glance down for the speed which has been done for decades. You move your eyes for the exact same amount of time. It isnt as though the speedometer is in the boot.

[@humphreyrichards8936]

@@stephenwilby1179 That is your point of view. I and a great many other people disagree, glancing down to check speed does not require head movement. Looking to the side does require head movement, hence this is picked up by the car's attention monitoring system. I work in the automotive industry and have driven all mainstream cars. Very few manufacturers do not have a forward facing display for a very good reason. Tesla and Mini both have or offer a HUD to compensate. Just look at other reviews and you will find that the majority of people to not like a single tablet and consider it unsafe and a distraction. In addition Euro NCAP have stated that they will no longer issue 5 star ratings to cars with all functions in a digital screen as from 2026

[@stephenwilby1179]

​@@humphreyrichards8936mini had a hud in the 60's?

[@stephenwilby1179]

​@@humphreyrichards8936also do you crash everytime you look in your rear view mirror or wing mirror because you turn your head?

[@humphreyrichards8936]

@@stephenwilby1179 thankfully road safety has come a long way since the 60's. Today's roads are busier and traffic much heavier, speed controls are in place which were not at that time. I have tried to keep my comments decent and too the point without being personal or derisive. I suggest you do to

[@evdvleugel8924]

Although the EX30 has an impressive towing weight, it is not possible to tow a caravan because there are no suitable caravan mirrors available for the EX30. Kristian, do you know when there will be caravan mirrors available that are suitable for the EX30?

[@SigC00P3R]

great video as always! thank you. But im surprised you didnt mention the range or the charging curve as a bad aspect. it is not the worst in class but compared to other competitors in this range even older models it is really bad. I still love the car though and hope Volvo will improve in the future

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks so much 👍 The range aren't to bad. Some days I was down on 16,5kWh in consumption. But we're on the end of winter, so will give it a pass for now. , Yeah the charging curve are quite bad. Especially if you connect under 10% 😂 0-10% are terrible. But I was expecting a better charging curve, so kinda disappointed there

[@Mr_Seppo]

@@volvo_kristian Manufactures when they disclose the range should disclose the winter range and not on perfect conditions.

[@markbartoszek8585]

I live in the US, so the Smart #1 and Zeekr X are not offered. However, I heard they do not drive as well as the EX30, and there are some channels out there that preferred the EX30 over the Smart #1 simply because the driving experience was better.

[@volvo_kristian]

Interesting. Thanks for the input.. Will actually drive a #1 one tomorrow. If I'm also feeling the same then the EX30 definitely has a winning argument. Because I really enjoyed the driving experience

[@frankeriksen1273]

The Smart is very fun to drive👍🏻🍻

[@benjaminsmith2287]

This idea that because they are the same platform they are similar is fallacious. I remember the Volvo s40 from 2006. It had a shared platform with the Mazda 3. The Mazda felt and drove completely different from the Volvo. And beyond the engine. The Mazda felt lighter and had a much different ride quality. I've read the Zeekr is more softly sprung and less eager to turn in and the Smart also has a different driving characteristic. There are a lot of cars with shared platforms that don't feel or drive the same way.

[@Christian-cy2pn]

No heads up display, road noise, and inefficiency is the real deal breaker for me. Currently have xc40 recharge and the efficiency has been bad since day one. Currently looking at Byd seal and tempting to wait for kia ev3. Great video!

[@JJonasken]

No headup display is really bad

[@volvo_kristian]

Agreed 👍

[@kaotik85]

Hi Kristian, maybe I missed the info, I would like to ask you about the consumption about single motor version, can you make a little recap about the urban/extra urban/highway consumptions?

[@KonstantinosKalapanidas]

Hi everyone!! Iam about to confirm the order for my next car EX30 and i would like to ask.What’s the really different between the simple soundbar and Harman Kardon music system? Thanks a lot!

[@rizale73]

Ciao esiste un modo per disattivare sempre il controllo della distrazione alla guida?

[@TheSteinbitt]

I like how they rebranded “cost saving” to “sustainability”, it’s a really clever move.

[@richard--s]

Oh yes and he cannot adjust the brightness of the center display on the (non existing) head up display 11:30 (like on any other car?? ;-)

[@ajcball]

I own a #1.. agree that outside ex30 much nicer, inside #1 much nicer and more spacious. I have got used to ourside of #1, but its very 'marmite'

[@kfh123]

Very well said. Volvo's USP, Safety, is at risk with this screen.

[@stefanaxelsson6397]

There are at least two things that are dealbrakers to me. Number one is a screen in front of the driver. Absolutly essential. Numer two is BUTTONS! Nothing irritates me more than the lack of buttons in modern cars.

[@vincentmeier]

The one screen is the Tesla trap. This is also not directed to the driver so you have to look more closely to the screen. For the Ugly it’s up to Volvo and I am quite sure they will modify is they are lacking, I don’t think they can fool people in buying less product for a higher price…

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, not a fan of this Tesla style interior

[@fragu123]

But Geely positioned the Zeekr Brand above Volvo. Zeekr is also a bit more expensive and that shows especially in the interior....

[@janisstasans960]

And while on the subject of the screen- what about non-existing CarPlay?

[@n0b0d1r]

However, the support for Apple CarPlay is coming and it has been known since the launch of EX30 that it will not be out upon the arrival of first customer cars. The official estimate has been Q2 of 2024 as far as I know. Let's hope it arrives soon!

[@janisstasans960]

Let’s hope so. It was planned to be released on Q1 2024.

[@n0b0d1r]

I just checked the official pricing list in Finland and apparently the Q2 release estimation was for the digital key (mobile phone as a key) functionality. On the Volvo website there is only a mention that "The EX30 is prepared for Apple CarPlay and the functionality will be delivered in an over-the-air (OTA) software update during early 2024." Would be nice to get it in the next OTA update which is rumored to arrive in mid-April.@@janisstasans960

[@taomahNEGEV]

The Kona beats it in every aspect except for the brilliant front of the EX30. What's a CQ X?

[@volvo_kristian]

Hehe 🤣 Your funny. Just a couple of follow up questions.. What's the towing capacity of Kona? What's the 0-100 times in Kona? How much hp does the Kona have? Can you get AWD on Kona? What's the peak charging speed? What's the ground clearance? And then.. How's these numbers in Volvo's EX30 ? Case closed.

[@taomahNEGEV]

@@volvo_kristian Check out some Kona vs EX30 videos and you'll get the important differences that really matter.

[@volvo_kristian]

Differences that matters for You.. That's not the same as that the Kona beats it in every aspect. That's more that you prefer the Kona, and that I can understand. Zeekr X.. Sister car to EX30

[@taomahNEGEV]

@@volvo_kristian Fair enough. Thanks for Zeekr X.

[@4leafclover243]

I test drove Ex30 other day. I’m fine with the thickness of the steering wheel. I agree I hate the multi functional control is a huge step back so I hope the software update will fix the responsive. The lack of HUD or driver display is such a huge huge missed opportunity.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah. Hope Volvo will offer a HUD eventually, but sadly doubt it

[@danielemilazzo432]

It may be possible that many of the issues could be fixed in software updates, yes the speedo should be in front of you, but maybe they could increase the font size to make it more legible at speed. Also, when going over the soeed limit of a certain road, give you an acoustic feedback to tell you to slow down. Maybe even improve the voice recognition to lower lights and other functions. For more practical things, yes the frunk should be bigger and the sensor to open the rear should have been standard.

[@actuallypaulstanley]

Agree. I think all EV front storage should be able to store the supplied charging cable.

[@MohjJOR]

Another screen or headsup display costs, kick sensor, buttons, all costs extra money which what Volvo wanted to avoid, expensive small electric car. I agree they are crucial and nice to have, but i feel at the end you get what you pay for. Hopefully they will fix the screen stuff and driver monitoring system with a software update.

[@TheZahacristian]

Agree and for me nr 1 issue is single screen layout.. not just volvo but majority of manufactures going this route...they smoke the same shit. Crazy..we drive cars not playing on tablets while driving.

[@wtfgogu]

Don't forget that on the stock Indigo they cheapened out on the pockets on the back of the front seats. Also, the Smart #3 looks a lot better than the #1.

[@pascaldacosta8412]

Thank you very much for your long analyses and the quality of your videos. It's great to see you regularly! 🤩 One point I would like to hear from you: do you think consumption is too high? I guess no since you did not mention it in your 5 bad points. But efficiency seems low. Especially on highway… I have the feeling that winter gives us a slightly distorted image of the vehicle. This brand new EV came out at the wrong time for testing: in the middle of a Nordic winter! 🥶

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks so much for your kind words 👍 and yeah. Didn't mention it because I didn't think it was to bad. Especially when considering we're on the end of winter. But this won't compete with Tesla in terms of efficiency. Not even close. Sadly

[@actuallypaulstanley]

Comparing the EX30 and XC40 recharge is difficult as the UK price difference is still plus £7,000 with the £8,000 Volvo finance contribution.

[@Mr_Seppo]

In my world, ofc i have a old car but the only thing wish should be in a screen is navigation and music, the rest should be with buttons, becouse you dont have to look away when you use buttons, you know where they are, with a screen not so much. They said its allegal to use a phone on a car but a screen is ok. ????

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah.. Can partly agree there. We need physical buttons back. The screen mania have went to far

[@milesyounghamilton]

The fact you don’t have a button for AWD is nuts

[@volvo_kristian]

Indeed 👍

[@AlanTov]

Actually the biggest worrying thing you mentioned was the brakes. I came from an ID3 1st edition which had soft vague brakes. Now in a Kia and am happy. I don’t want to experience that scary world again!

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, understand that. Recommend to take a testdrive with one, and see what you think. It was better in the Twin, but not to my preferences.

[@eajohnson]

I'm not sure I agree with you about the driver alert and the example of looking to the side for extended periods while still moving forward. I've personally been involved in an accident caused by exactly that - fully attentive to the road but the fact is you can't always both be checking the periphery and also responding to what's immediately in front of you. What I want given this human shortcoming is for the vehicle to also be watching all these things and to automatically brake or take evasive action if you miss something. If that system gets good enough, then warning just because there is a 'chance' you could miss something should not be necessary.

[@tojuv]

More customization's just is must. I can manage with current one for now, but now UI is no way even on a good level.

[@azw409]

You can buy a 1 year old C40 for the same price as a EX30, there's no comparison the C40 is refined quality and this isn't.

[@volvo_kristian]

Agreed 😎

[@thetad1242]

We suspect a spiral phonecord like charging cable would work and fit in the FRUNK

[@julesvreug]

Great video so it seems Driving a ex30 is like driving with your wife..... Agree head up display, and things should be more voice controlled, or use the eye tracking camera for hand gestures maybe.

[@jimross623]

I have every sympathy with you mate. I hope Volvo take note of your observations and fix those problems.

[@Banyan314]

buttons, please just give us buttons !

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah 🙌

[@jamesvandamme7786]

Buy a Kona.

[@Vlatard]

Love korean and japanese cars. Love their build quality, nobody make cars like them (nor germans) even love some of their aesthetics...but the Kona, ufffff, is terribly "unpleasant", just...meh. Yep, it's not an objective judgment, but...ufffff, it will be your car for many years, and a good looking car is important for me. Maybe if I had to choose one of Hyundais group, I'll prefer the Niro. Maybe.

[@kafarske123]

100% enig. Ville kanskje også tatt med den håpløse blinklys bryteren. Er veldig på gjære om jeg skal bytte når den jeg har bestilt kommer i slutten av april 🤔🤔🤔

[@volvo_kristian]

Haha 😂 ja. For noe drit. Mye bedre med separate brytere.

[@DavidFisk-q8d]

I like to hear about products and your views on the good and not so good aspects of the product. People now days are very spoiled by the development and improvement in the automobiles these days. Coming from a time when heater demisters were optional and keys were the method of security to now being warned if approaching cyclists or pedestrians before opening doors. Using Volvo's from the 142 series which were basic but strong and safe I find your method of describing your disappointments a little over the top and very disappointing. Having said that, thank you for the insights and viewpoints on the EX30 I have been following them with interest and look forward to seeing what Volvo does in response. Keep up the good work but tidy up your language being unnecessary in my view. Cheers from Australia.

[@Phe75]

Jag hatar Driver Alert. Blir helt galen. Fruktansvärt irriterande. Precis som du säger så blir man utskälld om man tittar ut åt sidan. Bra video!

[@kanenaskanenopoulos4314]

If you find the EX30 infotainment so annoying, can you really recommend the #1? Have you even seen that fox? :P I thought you were going to mention consumption and range as a negative as it hasn't been exactly stellar, but I'm positively surprised you didn't. I take it you come away thinking it's actually decent?

[@volvo_kristian]

Well 😂 I've seen that stupid fox, and I'm actually testdriving one tomorrow. So let's see. But consumption and range. We're at the end of winter. So I'm not directly disappointed. Saw consumption down to 16,5 so kinda decent. We're not taking Tesla 3 efficiency, but not to bad. Will test it again later spring/early summer before making up my mind on the efficiency and range. Was more disappointed over the charging situation.

[@redReiRei]

Sustainable my ass, they just cheaped out on all the stuff I would expect in a Volvo. The 2012 Samsung tablet and no driver display is egregious, and I really hate the lack of physical buttons for volume control. The EU should force physical buttons in all cars, we don't need giant Iphones that will end up being thrown away after 5 years ( I see what the EV companies are doing and it's hardly sustainable at all)

[@MartijnV452]

I would actually prefer the Volvo exterior in combination with the Zeekr X interior

[@volvo_kristian]

Yes yes yes 🤣 Same here

[@MartijnV452]

@@volvo_kristian cool! I thought you preferred the Smart #1 interior

[@volvo_kristian]

@@MartijnV452 Regards to interior they are pretty "similar". Or better than Volvo's 🤣 However. I feel that the Zeekr interior are more premium and looks better.

[@pf888]

Lol brutally honest feedback, totally agree about lack of speedometer or HUD, surprised that the EU regulator approved the sale of the EX30

[@stephenwilby1179]

It has a speedometer, and is no harder to glance at than a regular one behind the steering wheel.

[@volvo_kristian]

Are you talking of experience or just guessing? It's actually "harder" or inconvenient in use.

[@stephenwilby1179]

​@@volvo_kristiani have used both and i dont find it any more dangerous or inconvenient to use than a regular speedometer. Diffrent, yes. Maybe something that could take a few days or weeks to fully get the muscle memory but definately not harder or unsafe.

[@stephenwilby1179]

​@@volvo_kristianit also isnt a new thing. Mini had a central speedometer in the 1960s

[@volvo_kristian]

@stephenwilby1179 Mini are a niche product. But yes. Volvo aren't the first. But their implementation are bad here. In my opinion. Even Tesla 3, that I don't like, have a better implementation of only one screen. Volvo have done this just because cost savings. Not to improve or make the driving experience better. Cost savings.

[@mikewickens2016]

I went and looked at one yesterday absolutely terrible interior couldn't agree more.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, the interior aren't a highlight.. but maybe we just need to accept it 🤔 I've just driven the Smart #1 and I'm feeling confused 😂

[@benjaminsmith2287]

That's a matter of opinion. Some people love the interior. For me, it's very Volvo and I've owned and have been a fan of the brand since the 1960s. It's modernized. But at the core, it's very Volvo.

[@StuMunro]

Steering wheel buttons should be a safety recall.

[@inezkestens5561]

I agree on most of your points and I've only test drived the Volvo so take what I say with a bit of salt. But I feel how you look at this car, depends so much on what you expect. I mainly drove volvo, before my Polestar 2 I had the V40 and I really like how a volvo feels and how quiet they are. I love to drive my polestar. it's not perfect but in the electric range it's a good marriage between a traditional car and the Tesla's. Now the reason we're going to have an EX30 is because it will be the company car of my boyfriend and his temporary car was an ... VW ID3, and with all due respect but that is a sh*tcar. I'm not even going to say anything about the ridiculous price and the brand damage it does to VW but that car is just feels like the cheapest Opel Corsa you could get 10 years ago, the suspension on that thing 😑. It's inconceivable they dared to roll it out. Now because of space, our second car does need to be the same size and have pretty tight turning. The Volvo EX30 is almost the same size than the VW ID3, so it was perfect for us. So while I am used to driving my polestar, I'm comparing the EX30 to the VW ID3 and EVERYTHING is an improvement on that. I'm sure there will be better models coming out from Volvo or other brands but I can live with the decisions they made to cut costs ... because it's nowhere near the plastic monstrosity of the ID3 😆😅 , and I still feel you get quality for what's essentially a "budget" car. Which is where I feel a bit of dissonance will happen with the normal volvo driver, as you never did buy a volvo as a "budget" option. Also for the polestar I did have to wait 2 years to get my foot sensor installed :p

[@johnPaul-qn3dg]

I am still humming and hawing about getting one, the no heads-up display is definitely swaying me towards other models, I'm 59, my brain has slowed, (it will happen to you) and I really do not feel confident fiddling with a screen with my eyes off the road, I think it was a daft decision, I first thought the system would have extensive voice control, but I just watched a vid on it and NO....WTF

[@bukhrin]

For the kind of money volvo asked for they could've gave us a main HUD instead of just one main panel

[@palusisko]

Really useful review! In fact i didn't expect the best ev ever when it is Geely chinesse car :-) :-) The true is that your five ugly things is the reason why i am (not only me?) waiting for Skoda Elroq or Epiq :-)

[@benjaminsmith2287]

It's not a Geely. It's a Volvo. Just because it is owned by Geely doesn't make it a Geely.

[@palusisko]

@@benjaminsmith2287 Looking at the poor quality of the interior I think there are many parts from Geely :-) But ok the time will say more about the reliability.

[@benjaminsmith2287]

@@palusisko What poor quality of the interior? have you sat in it? There is no poor quality in Chinese built Volvos and Polestars. The quality is the same as the cars built in Belgium or Sweden. I've been in plenty Chinese built Volvos and in the Polestars so this is nonsense because they're Chinese they're poor quality. That's a bias and should be an outdated notion by now. And Geely didn't spec any of the interior parts. They all come from Volvo Sweden. There are videos on where the materials come from and maybe you should watch them before commenting.

[@lordbachus]

The driver allert system is mandatory in the EU, and all those safety systems need to be turned on by the car as default when the car starts up. Volvo is only applying to the eu laws. But a car withouth a dashboard display behind the wheel or atleast a very good versatile HUD is not an option. The reason Tesla started this hype has only a single reason. Cutting costs. Thats why i parked my attempts to buy this car.

[@Emaratilfy]

Please don’t give Volvo any ideas of charging 5000NOK for a simple kick sensor. That shit should be standard.

[@volvo_kristian]

Yeah, should be standard. But if Volvo won't include it, then they should include it as optional extra. In my opinion. But totally agree with you

[@pprender1]

Great review - both informative and VERY funny 👍😁

[@jurgeggler8455]

You put a lot of time and effort into testing the EX30, and that's commendable. It's great that you acknowledged your personal and subjective judgments in this video. However, the issue is that the video ended up being more about you than the EX30 itself. But the viewer who wants an objective perspective on the EX3 is not being addressed. I understand your preferences and needs, but that's not why I'm watching your video. A more objective approach would be much more interesting. You tested the range, for example. Here are facts to help decide. With the interior materials, you rightly said Volvo aimed to be sustainable. It would have been interesting to see how the EX30 compares to similar cars in this regard. When evaluating a car, one should consider the specific purpose and goals it was designed for. For instance, it wouldn't be fair to criticize a Fiat 500 for lacking the space needed for a family, as that wasn't the target market. And, of course, one can't compare an electric vehicle to a diesel vehicle. Anyone who chooses electric mobility is choosing sustainability and ecology, not endless range. That's why the discussion about range, when compared to combustion engines, is a comparison of different goals. Therefore, I'd like to see more reviews that test vehicles against the specific target audience and the manufacturer's own stated goals. To what degree are these goals met in this case? How the EX30 stacks up against other similar vehicles in terms of the stated objectives is an interesting perspective that few reviewers seem to explore. While such an approach does demand substantially more research than simply sharing subjective opinions, it could be a worthwhile endeavor. Incorporating a bit more in this are a would be an improvement. Thanks for all your work!

[@petemo762]

🤩 I don't often post comments, but I'm making exception for this one. What a brilliant review. Brutal, honest, and from the heart. The "my personal preference" injections are priceless. I wish more reviews any products were this good!

[@volvo_kristian]

Thanks so much for your feedback 👌

[@timwolke]

I drive a EX30 Twin Motor Ultra since one month and 2.500km. I fucking hate driving it, just because of the driver alert. It's so annoying!!

[@byronmohammed1888]

Sustainability SHOULD be the focus of large corporations lol

[@volvo_kristian]

Not at any given cost.. Or disadvantage for the consumer. . Lol

[@janatlmb2770]

central panel as a display is a deal-breaker for me.