The Cross Country nomenclature with Volvo's line-up has produced some cracking cars in the past, and now it has slapped that badge on its all-electric EX30, which is now available in SA! Available exclusively in the top-tier Ultra trim, I headed to Pretoria to experience the model recently.
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Performance
The Cross Country is only available in Twin Motor Performance guise, which means it offers 315 kW and 543 Nm of torque. This translates to a claimed 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 3.7 seconds.
Aesthetic upgrades
The EX30 Cross Country features a raised ride height and model-specific 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with Matte Graphite and Matte Black accents. Other design touches include skid plates and wider wheel arch extensions. The new model also features a darker front shield, boot lid, and artwork on the front fascia inspired by Sweden’s Kebnekaise mountain range.
The model now boasts 190 mm of ground clearance—13 mm more than the standard EX30—and with the more all-terrain-focused tyres, it promises to be more competent in light off-road scenarios.
Inside, the Ultra model comes fully loaded with a heated steering wheel and front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. The 12.3-inch central touchscreen is the command centre, integrating most vehicle functions and supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with built-in Google services. I still find the minimalist approach to the interior to be more of a hindrance than a convenience. Still, perhaps Volvo will improve this in future updates and remove the over-reliance on the central touchscreen.
Battery & Charging
The EX30 Cross Country has a 69-kWh battery pack, providing a claimed electric range of up to 427 km (WLTP cycle). With a claimed energy consumption figure of 18.7 kWh/100 km, we managed around 23 kWh/100km at the launch event. The brand claims the battery can go from 10% to 80% in 26 minutes when using a compatible fast charger.
Driving impression
Safety
True to the Volvo name, the EX30 Cross Country has a suite of safety and driver assistance technologies, all included as standard. Features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Pilot Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with Autobrake, and a 360-Degree Park Assist Camera are all standard.
Verdict
I found the Cross Country EX30 to be an agreeable product that offers performance, comfort and reasonable practicality; however, all its best attributes are present in the regular model. EX30 too. While there is a more softly sprung ride and added clearance, there isn't a chance this model will soon be heading to a hardcore off-road trail, but would rather be used for very light soft-roading, and within a reasonable distance from a charger, limiting its appeal within the adventure community.
Pricing*
EX30 Cross Country: R1 165 000.
*The price includes a three-year/60 000 km maintenance plan, a five-year/100 000 km warranty, and an eight-year battery warranty. Additionally, new owners will receive a wallbox with installation, two years of free public charging, and a three-year data plan.
