Silent Thunder

The Volvo EX30 is an electric SUV that's small in size, big on speed, and surprisingly fun to drive.

- Words: Low Weixian

SPEND FOUR DAYS with the Volvo EX30 and you may find yourself questioning everything you thought you knew about compact electric SUVs. As Volvo's smallest SUV to date, it defies expectations-packing swift acceleration, Scandinavian elegance, and, most surprisingly, a genuinely engaging drive. Even for those accustomed to high-performance German machines, the EX30 is an unexpectedly compelling alternative.

The EX30's acceleration is what you'd expect from an electric vehicle (EV)-instantaneous and effortless. No hesitation, no fuss, just seamless, near-silent speed at the flex of your right foot. In its top-specification Twin Motor Performance variant, the EX30 dispatches the 0-100km/h sprint in a blistering 3.4 seconds. That's supercar territory. In a Volvo.

Yet, the most impressive aspect isn't just the speed-it's the control. The EX30 feels planted, nimble in corners, and unwaveringly composed even when pushed. Steering, even at its firmest setting, remains light and responsive, making city manoeuvring and lane changes effortless. And while it delivers electrifying bursts of speed, it's equally refined at a cruise, offering a smooth and composed experience whether weaving through city streets or stretching its legs on an expressway.