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New Volvo EX30 EV Will Be Joined by Rugged Cross Country Variant

More ground clearance and tough cladding add a bit of light off-road capability to Volvo's urban electric vehicle.

Volvo EX30 Cross Country in a random geometric field
Enlarge Image
Volvo EX30 Cross Country in a random geometric field
Volvo

Volvo on Wednesday unwrapped the EX30 EV with a compact, minimalist design tailored for urban electric driving. But for drivers looking for a bit more sport and utility in their compact SUV, the Swedish automaker also teased a rugged EX30 Cross Country variant that will join the lineup post-launch.

The Cross Country adds a bit of light off-road and trail capability to the EX30's formula, thanks to its increased ride height and chunky tires. Matte black cladding around the wheel arches, body and front fascia protect the EV's paint from rock chips and scratches, while completing the rough-and-tumble visual makeover. The EX30 Cross Country was also presented with Volvo's optional roof rack, which holds a full-size spare tire.

EX30 Cross Country with roof rack and tire
Enlarge Image
EX30 Cross Country with roof rack and tire
Volvo

Specifics are sparse at this point in development, but I think it's safe to assume the EX30 Cross Country will be outfitted with the Twin Motor all-wheel drive version of the standard EX30's electric powertrain and that the beefier rubber and increased aerodynamic profile will have some effect on the EV's 265-mile estimated range. 

Check out our first look at the new Volvo EX30 compact electric SUV for more details.

Antuan started out in the automotive industry the old-fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. He now has nearly 20 years of expertise and experience behind the wheel of hundreds of cars, including electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen, and traditional combustion vehicles. For each car he tests, Antuan covers more than 200 miles behind the wheel and evaluates driving dynamics; acceleration and braking performance; range; and efficiency. Antuan's goal is to use his extensive car knowledge to educate CNET readers and help with their next car-related buying decision. Whether you're EV-curious, an EV-enthusiast or a combustion-car loyalist, Antuan will bring you the unbiased advice, reviews, best lists and news you need. You can reach Antuan at antuan.goodwin@cnet.com

Article updated on June 7, 2023 at 11:28 AM PDT

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Written by  Antuan Goodwin
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Headshot of Antuan Goodwin
Antuan Goodwin Senior Writer, Electrified Cars
Antuan started out in the automotive industry the old-fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. He now has nearly 20 years of expertise and experience behind the wheel of hundreds of cars, including electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen, and traditional combustion vehicles. For each car he tests, Antuan covers more than 200 miles behind the wheel and evaluates driving dynamics; acceleration and braking performance; range; and efficiency. Antuan's goal is to use his extensive car knowledge to educate CNET readers and help with their next car-related buying decision. Whether you're EV-curious, an EV-enthusiast or a combustion-car loyalist, Antuan will bring you the unbiased advice, reviews, best lists and news you need. You can reach Antuan at antuan.goodwin@cnet.com
Expertise Nearly two decades of testing, driving, reporting on, writing about, reviewing, and editing content about electric and ICE cars. Category focus is on electrified cars, EVs, HEVs, PHEVs, ICE cars, EV infrastructure, EV chargers, EV adapters, EV news, auton Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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