New Volvo EX30 Cross Country brings a rugged makeover to the small EV

• New rugged Cross Country trim level for EX30
• Bigger wheels and unique styling
• Extra off-road accessories available

This is the new Volvo EX30 Cross Country and it’s the latest model in a 25-year lineage of off-road focused family cars from the Swedish manufacturer.

In Volvo-speak, Cross Country means rugged. Historically, cars with the badge have sported beefier bodywork, raised suspension and chunky tyres, with the aim of tackling all terrains in all weather conditions. But it’s been a while since we’ve seen that ‘Cross Country’ badge in the UK. The Volvo V60 Cross Country was quietly axed in 2023, and even when the V60 and V90 returned to UK showrooms last year, the rugged trim level was notably absent.

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Fast forward to 2025, and the Cross Country is back, marking the first time the badge has appeared on an SUV and an electric car. The EX30 Cross Country appears to have all the ingredients of a rugged SUV and Volvo claims it is designed to “excel in more diverse conditions – and to look good while doing so”.

Is the Volvo EX30 Cross Country a proper off-roader?

Well, that’s a bit complicated. The EX30 Cross Country certainly looks like a proper off-roader, with its increased ground clearance – up by 19mm compared to the standard car – and bigger wheels with optional all-terrain tyres.

It’s based on the EX30 Performance, too, which means you get dual motors and four-wheel drive, which should provide extra traction in slippery conditions. Volvo has fitted the EX30 Cross Country with beefier front and rear skidplates to protect the underside of the car, as well as plastic extensions for the wheelarches to house the bigger wheels.

That’s all well and good, but Volvo has pointed out that the EX30 Cross Country is not intended to be a “hardcore off-roader”. Instead, it’s aimed at customers who will spend most of their time driving in the city, but need something that can tackle the occasional weekend trip into the wilderness.

The standard EX30 makes a pretty good starting point for that brief. It’s a small electric SUV that looks good and drives well with a decent range. The latter has taken a small hit for the Cross Country, reduced from 280 to 265 miles, which is probably due to the chunkier wheels. It should still be plenty quick, though, with 422bhp and a 0-62mph time of just 3.7 seconds.

Are there any other changes for the EX30 Cross Country?

The EX30 Cross Country gets two bespoke interior design options, named ‘Pine’ and ‘Indigo’. Both use a mixture of sustainable materials and “echo the rugged style of the EX30 Cross Country”, according to Volvo.

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You’ll also spot new matte black ‘shields’ at the front and rear of the EX30 Cross Country. The front panel features an engraved pattern that’s inspired by topographical maps of the Kebnekaise mountain range.

Importantly, Volvo has softened the EX30’s suspension for the Cross Country, which should improve comfort. Previous Cross Country models have often impressed with their comfortable ride, so we have high hopes for the EX30 Cross Country in this area.

It will also be available with an optional ‘Cross Country Experience’ option pack. This bundles some important adventure-ready accessories, including the all-terrain tyres, mud flaps, a roof basket, load carries and a retractable tow bar – the latter can be used to haul up to 1,600kg.

Volvo EX30 Cross Country first drive – Alastair Crooks

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We’re yet to give the EX30 Cross Country a proper shakedown on British roads, but we did have an exclusive opportunity to drive it on a frozen lake in northern Sweden. We know that’s hardly how most owners will use their car, but there were a few key takeaways that show promise for the rugged electric SUV.

Aside from a set of studded snow tyres, our EX30 Cross Country was unmodified. Lapping around the icy circuit, we were impressed with its dynamic abilities and how it didn’t feel compromised compared to the regular EX30. Even with the softer suspension, there was little body roll through the corners and the ride was excellent. The steering didn’t have quite as much feel as we’d have hoped, but we couldn’t fault its responsiveness. 

The studded tyres had no trouble navigating over snow banks, but that won’t be of much relevance to the showroom-ready car. What’s more important was the impressive refinement, even with those tyres fitted. We were well-insulated from external noise, which should bode well for on-road refinement.

When can I buy an EX30 Cross Country?

The Volvo EX30 Cross Country is expected to go on sale in summer 2025, with an estimated starting price of around £47,000. That will make it the most expensive model in the EX30 lineup, with the current Ultra range-topper costing just under £45,000.

Looking for a serious off-roader? Read our list of the best 4x4s on sale today…