Review – Volvo EX30 Cross Country (2025), EX30 with mud boots

Volvo EX30 Cross Country

The new Volvo EX30 Cross Country is an all-road car following a familiar recipe from Volvo. The first model in the Cross Country series was introduced in 1997. Since then, several Cross Country models – sometimes also written as XC – have appeared on the market. But how do you recognize such an EX30 Cross Country and what makes this car special? We’ll explain.

Adaptations Volvo EX30 Cross Country

• Front bumper with topographic map for the Kebnekaise region in Arctic Sweden, finished in matte black. This “grille” features the coordinates of the highest mountain in Sweden, which is also called Kebnekaise. Volvo claims that damage to the front end is also less noticeable because relief has been added to the ‘grille.’
• The EX30 Cross Country further features front and rear skidplates in low gloss Vapour Grey.
• The lower bumper is finished in matte black.
• The car also has 19 mm more ground clearance.
• The front suspension is tuned eight percent softer, while the rear is thirteen percent softer.
• The suspension and dampers are also specifically tuned for the character of a Cross Country, so count especially on a bit more comfort and softer damping.
• The steering is slightly modified for more steering feel with the different tires.
• A Cross Country inscription can be found on the C-pillar. This same lettering can be found at the bottom of the rear bumper.
• Thanks to wheel arch extensions front and rear, this adventurous EX30 looks just a bit wider
• 19-inch Cross Country wheels in matt graphite/ matt black
• It also has special, larger wheels, with the option of an 18-inch all-terrain accessory tire.
• Finally, the rear is finished with a matte black insert. This is just a foil.

Too rugged? – VOLVO EX30 Cross Country (2025) – REVIEW – AutoRAI TV

Concessions thanks to tires and higher ground clearance

The EX30 Cross Country offers a range of up to 427 km (WLTP). Below the line, that means a higher ground clearance and different tire choice does affect the overall range. In fact, a normal Twin Motor Performance has a range of up to 450 km. Of course, the EX30 Cross Country also comes with all-wheel drive.

Experience Package, fun but also concessions

Do you really want the maximum Cross Country experience? Then opt for the Experience Package of 2,775 euros. This package includes black load carriers, a luggage rack with roof basket and front and rear mud flaps. Also 18-inch five-spoke wheels in the color matt Graphite/matt Black with 235/55 R18 All-terrain tires are part of the Experience Package. Thanks to these “even rougher” tires, the range drops even further by about ten percent. So in that case, count on 384 kilometers on a full charge of electricity.

The starting price

The Volvo EX30 Cross Country Ultra is available in the Netherlands with a starting price of 52,995 euros. This model is thus priced 2,000 euros higher than the Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Performance Ultra. The EX30 Ultra is the most luxurious version of the Volvo EX30 with standard features including a panoramic roof, electrically adjustable front seats, 360-degree cameras, Harman Kardon premium audio, Digital Key Plus and Pilot Assist.  

A cheaper powertrain is not available on the Cross Country. So you are always stuck with the 314 kW (428 hp) powertrain. That’s not a punishment, especially if you “turn off” ESC via the somewhat cumbersome infotainment system. The car then allows a little more wheelspin and body movement, which is great fun in snow or on ice. Really off ESC cannot, which Volvo says is not safe. Those who get too out of hand are treated to a car that no longer responds to gas input. The system then disables the car. Frustrating on ice, but on asphalt it can save you. And that’s what Volvo is all about. Volvo is not a car for the wheelman or woman, but for someone looking for a safe car. In that mission, Volvo has also succeeded well with this EX30.

How does the Volvo EX30 Cross Country drive?

Sensationally, a Volvo EX30 Cross Country does not drive very differently from a regular EX30, but you do notice that the suspension is a bit softer and therefore more forgiving. Above all, the car’s response is predictable, controllable and comfortable. So in that sense, this Volvo is also an everyman’s friend. The EX30 Cross Country is not the roomiest. Especially in the rear the car is a bit cramped, but the luggage space makes up for it. The Volvo EX30 Cross Country is mainly a car you buy for its extra tough looks. The exceptionally strong powertrain is a pleasant bonus.

Volvo EX30 Cross Country Twin Motor Performance – specifications.

• Battery capacity (nominal): 69 kWh
• Range maximum: 427 to 450 km (WLTP)
• Consumption: 17.5 to 18.7 kWh/100 km
• DC charging rate: 153 kW
• Fast charging (10-80%): 28 minutes
• On-board charger: 11 kW / 22 kW
• Heat pump: Yes
• Power: 314 kW (428 hp).
• Torque: 543 Nm
• Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 3.6 to 3.7 seconds
• Top speed: 180 km/h
• Drive: AWD
• Towing weight: 1,600 kilograms