Mat’s Car of the Day: a used Volvo EX30 is a stylish, award-winning EV bargain
Car changing is a big deal
The Volvo EX30 was Carwow’s Car of the Year in 2024, and now it’s starting to look temptingly cheap on the used market. Mat Watson explains why you should consider this car.
There’s something about the Volvo EX30 which just makes me want one. Maybe it’s the chic styling or funky interior, or perhaps it’s the way it drives.
Whatever the secret ingredient, the EX30 is a great small electric car, and now you can find one on the used market with huge discounts.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Volvo EX30 used deals
A new Volvo EX30 starts from £33,000, rising to around £45,000 for a top-spec model with the most powerful motors. That’s not bad for a posh SUV from a premium brand, but I reckon a used example offers great value.
Take this one for example. It’s a 2024 Extended Range Plus model, meaning it has up to 296 miles of range, adaptive cruise control, heated seats and wireless smartphone mirroring. It’s also finished in a brilliant colour – a bright yellow which isn’t available anymore.
New, this car would cost you almost £40,000. This one, with just under 9,000 miles on the clock, is listed for £23,800. That’s a few grand cheaper than a new Ford Puma Gen-E, a car which is nowhere near as posh inside or comfy as the Volvo.
Why do I love the Volvo EX30?
I would have a Volvo EX30 on looks alone, because it’s a really handsome electric car. The squat proportions and sleek lights give it real presence, and the interior is equally cool.
Volvo has used loads of funky materials inside, including a recycled plastic with metallic flecks and a sort of hessian weave on the dashboard. It’s just got so much personality.
I also like the way the EX30 drives. Around town it handles potholes really well, and the instant response from the electric motors makes it easy to nip in and out of gaps in traffic. It’s also a quiet motorway cruiser, and it’s decent on a twisty road as well.
A word of warning before buying
There are a couple of drawbacks to be aware of before buying a Volvo EX30, the first being a recall affecting a lot of used examples.
Owners have been told to only charge their cars to 70% owing to a potential fault with one of the battery modules which could, in extreme cases, lead to a fire. Extended Range and Performance models built between 2024 and 2026 are affected, but a fix is being rolled out.
So before you buy a used Volvo EX30, check the VIN with Volvo’s recall checker tool to see if that car is affected, and make sure the new battery module has been fitted if it is.
Other, smaller niggles include tight rear seats, a small boot and an irritating keyless entry system with a key that has no buttons. We lived with an EX30 for six months, and this proved to be pretty temperamental if you didn’t have the Volvo app to use your phone as the key.
That said, so long as the recall work has been carried out, the Volvo EX30 is a great small electric car, and it’s a bargain on the used market.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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