Compare The Volvo EX30 Vs. Volvo EX40 Specs & More

Head-to-Head Compact EV Comparison

You have your pick between the Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo EX40 models when you stop by our Volvo Cars Palo Alto showroom looking for a small, all-electric SUV. While larger EVs will soon be added to our inventory, such as the three-row Volvo EX90, these are two of our smaller luxury options. They provide family-friendly spaciousness in a more maneuverable package. But what elevates them from other SUVs and separates them from each other? Find out here.

When considering the specs of these two EVs, please note that the 2026 Volvo EX30 and 2026 Volvo EX40 are both designed for compact, easy maneuverability. Many mild hybrid SUVs are available for larger families to browse at our Volvo Cars Palo Alto dealership, as are EV options like the Volvo EX90.

From these specs, we can see that the Volvo EX40 offers an extensive range with its standard RWD powertrain. However, the overall smaller and lighter Volvo EX30 has excellent acceleration, making it feel snappy and responsive to drive. However, both models share similar Twin Motor ranges, making the Volvo EX30 even more compelling.

Charging

While the chart above shows that both models charge within 28 minutes at a DC Fast Charging Station, it's unlikely that you'll be doing most of your charging at these Level 3 locations. Instead, we recommend installing Level 2 charging equipment in your home, for which tax credits may be available.

Both SUVs will take about eight hours to charge at home.⁵ While that might seem like a time commitment, most people experience less inconvenience when charging their vehicle overnight than when they have to interrupt their commute for gas. In addition, both vehicles have sufficient range to take many families on a week's worth of errands around town without requiring a full charge.

Both of these SUVs are designed to be great city vehicles with the ability to turn and park easily, but the Volvo EX40 is better for those who anticipate adults sitting in the second row.

In addition to the cargo capacity we mentioned above for the rear load compartment, EVs contain a front storage area, or "frunk," which can be used to store your charging equipment.

The new Volvo XC40 Recharge has a trim lineup consisting of three tiers: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. Meanwhile, the Volvo EX30 skips right to the Plus as its introductory-level option and has an Ultra top trim. These tiers do have some features in common, but they don't have completely overlapping benefits.

The 2026 new Volvo EX40 and its smaller sibling, the Volvo EX30, have both streamlined their options for the new model year. This means the entry-level Volvo EX40 Recharge Core is no longer available, as both SUVs now start with the well-appointed Plus trim. While the EX40 focuses on a two-tier premium approach ending in the Ultra Black Edition, the EX30 lineup is more varied, featuring a standalone Ultra trim and the rugged, off-road-ready EX30 Cross Country.

Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo EX40: Plus Trims

Both crossovers prioritize an airy cabin with a standard panoramic roof and a power outlet in the cargo compartment for added utility. However, their interior personalities differ: the Volvo EX40 features Connect Suede Textile/Microtech upholstery, whereas the Volvo EX30 utilizes Textile and Nordico materials. The Volvo EX30 comes standard with a Harman Kardon® premium sound system, a feature reserved for the Volvo EX40 Ultra trim. The Volvo EX40 offers Park Assist for the front, rear, and sides, while the Volvo EX30 has it only for the front and rear.

2026 Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo EX40: Ultra Trims

At the highest level, these vehicles offer their most complete luxury experiences. The Volvo EX40 Black Edition gains the Harman Kardon® system, while the new Volvo EX30 interior is elevated with a 360-Degree Camera with 3D View. For those seeking adventure, the Volvo EX30 Cross Country stands alone with a raised ride height and rugged exterior cladding. Meanwhile, the Volvo EX40 remains the more decadent choice for comfort, offering a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats as standard at this level. Both models reach their technological peak with the inclusion of Pilot Assist.

Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo XC40 Recharge Tech & Safety

These two SUVs come with advanced and intuitive driver-support technology to help keep you safe on the road. Standard and available features include:

• Pilot Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Blind Spot Information System
• Oncoming Lane Mitigation

Discuss 2025 Volvo EX30 vs. 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge SUVs at Volvo Cars Palo Alto

If you want to ask more about our Volvo XC40 Recharge offers or configure a Volvo EX30 to your specifications, reach out to our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Volvo EX30 the same size as the Volvo XC40 Recharge?

No, the Volvo EX30 is not the same size as the Volvo XC40 Recharge. It's 166.7 inches long, about eight inches smaller than its sibling compact EV. Consequently, it has less second-row legroom and cargo space but is extremely maneuverable if you spend a lot of time looking for parking in the city. This model can be a great alternative for those who usually drive sedans.

What is the range of the Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo XC40 Recharge?

The 2025 Volvo EX30 has an EPA-estimated 253-mile range with standard AWD.⁴ The 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge range depends on which powertrain you pick. With the Single Motor Extended Range option with RWD, you can travel up to 293 miles.¹ With the more powerful Twin Motor powertrain, which comes with AWD, you can go up to 254 miles.¹

What is the cargo capacity of the Volvo XC40 Recharge vs. Volvo EX30?

The cargo capacity of the 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge is 16 cubic feet behind the second row and 57.5 cubic feet behind the first row. By comparison, the cargo capacity of the smaller 2025 Volvo EX30 is 31.9 cubic feet in total. You will also likely appreciate having a front cargo hold for storing charging equipment in both vehicles.

Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo EX40 Tech & Safety

These two SUVs come with advanced, intuitive driver-assist technology to help keep you safe on the road. Standard and available features include:

• Pilot Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Blind Spot Information System
• Oncoming Lane Mitigation

Discuss the 2026 Volvo EX30 vs. 2026 Volvo EX40 SUVs at Volvo Cars Palo Alto

These two accessible yet stylish EV models are both incredibly easy to drive and offer some of the highest-end luxury features shipped by Volvo Cars. Once you head to our Volvo dealership and give one a test drive, you'll quickly see why so many families love the commuting lifestyle supported by these compact models: whether you choose the Single Motor Extended Range for its impressive longevity or the Twin Motor for a snappy and responsive acceleration. While you're here, a representative will show you how easy it is to charge your Volvo EX30 or Volvo EX40 at our Volvo Cars Palo Alto station.

If you want to ask more about our Volvo EX40 offers or configure a Volvo EX30 to your specifications, reach out to our team today. We can also showcase the Volvo EX90, a larger SUV perfect for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Volvo EX30 the same size as the Volvo EX40?

No, the Volvo EX30 is not the same size as the Volvo EX40. It's 166.7 inches long, about eight inches smaller than its sibling compact EV. Consequently, it has less second-row legroom and cargo space but is extremely maneuverable if you spend a lot of time looking for parking in the city. This model can be a great alternative for those who usually drive sedans.

What is the range of the Volvo EX30 vs. Volvo EX40?

Both EVs have different ranges depending on your drivetrain. The Volvo EX30 achieves 261 miles with its Single Motor Extended Range configuration and 253 miles with its Twin Motor AWD variant.⁴ The Volvo EX40, meanwhile, has 260 and 296 miles for its Twin and Single Motor configurations, respectively.¹ Wheel size and external factors (like weather) can influence this range significantly.

What is the cargo capacity of the Volvo EX40 vs. Volvo EX30?

The cargo capacity of the 2026 Volvo EX40 is 18.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 57.5 cubic feet behind the first row. By comparison, the cargo capacity of the smaller 2026 Volvo EX30 is 27.8 cubic feet when you have the rear seats folded down. Both vehicles also feature a front cargo area for storing charging equipment.

¹Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov for further information.

²Prices shown are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), Base Price or Starting At price and excludes destination fees, taxes, title, license, and registration and/or electronic filing fees, dealer fees.

³When properly equipped.

⁴Single Motor: EPA-estimated range of up to 261 miles (MPGe: 127 city/ 104 highway/ 116 combined), Twin Motor Performance: EPA-estimated range of up to 253 miles (MPGe: 116 city/ 100 highway/ 109 combined), Cross Country Twin Motor Performance: EPA-estimated range of up to 227 miles (MPGe: 106 city/ 92 highway/ 99 combined). All ranges represent when the battery is fully charged and under ideal driving conditions. Ranges are for models equipped with 19-inch wheels. Your range and MPGe will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. Visit www.fueleconomy.gov for further information, but please note information on the Twin Motor Performance models may not be published yet.

⁵Charging times can vary and are dependent on factors such as outdoor temperature, battery temperature, charging equipment, battery condition, and car condition.