This was my favourite car of 2024 – here’s how you can save nearly £10,000 on one

May 28, 2025 by

Car changing is a big deal

The free, easy way to change your car online
Rated 4.4/5 from 69,336 reviews

Mat Watson: This funky and desirable electric car is great value for money when you buy it new, and it’s even more of a bargain second hand.

The Volvo EX30 was my favourite car of 2024, so much so I awarded it Car Of The Year. I’ll get onto what makes this car so great in a minute, but first we need to talk about money.

For a car with a premium badge on the nose, the EX30 is great value. It starts from around £33,000, which for a posh electric SUV with this much standard equipment is a bargain.

And you can save even more if you’re willing to buy second hand. I had a quick look on Carwow and found my ideal used Volvo EX30 – a 2024 Single Motor Extended Range Plus model with just over 4,200 miles on the clock.

To buy this car new would cost you £39,100, but this one is just under £29,500. That’s a saving of almost £10,000.

When I first reviewed the EX30 the main thing that struck me was just how cool it looks, and that carries through to the interior. It just has a “want it” factor from the moment you lay eyes on it.

And it’s not a case of style over substance either, because it’s easy to drive and comfortable over bumps. You also get adaptive cruise control as standard, making motorway journeys much easier.

The EX30 isn’t perfect though, because it’s not the most practical EV around. The rear seats are pretty tight, and the boot is on the small side. A Kia EV3 is much more spacious, and that car has around 80 miles more range as well.

I can forgive the Volvo for these small gripes though, because it just has so much character. It’s one of the most desirable small electric cars you can buy, and it’s affordable despite its premium badge.

Volvo EX30 alternatives:

Not sold on the Volvo EX30? Here are three great alternatives to consider.

Kia EV3: used from £34,000

The Kia EV3 has impressive range, loads of interior space and it’s comfortable to drive, but some of the driving assistance systems can get irritating after a while.

Skoda Elroq: from £31,510

The Skoda Elroq costs around the same as a new Volvo EX30, but offers way more cabin space. It’s also got loads of clever interior storage spaces, but it’s not as interesting as the Volvo.

Cupra Born: used from £16,500

If you’re after something a bit more sporty, the Cupra Born could be right up your alley. It looks great, gets decent range and the interior is spacious, but the laggy infotainment system can get annoying.

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.

Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.