New Volvo EX30 vs Smart #1: verdict
The all-new Volvo EX30 was developed using the same know-how that made the Smart #1 a class leader. But can the newcomer leapfrog its relative?...
Our verdict
We said at the beginning of this match-up that if there’s one manufacturer that can be trusted to produce a highly desirable premium SUV, it’s Volvo, and that certainly remains the case. The EX30 is a brilliant electric SUV that’s great to drive, well finished inside and competitively priced. It’d be a class leader if the #1 didn’t exist.
But, sadly for Volvo, the #1 does exist, and it is unquestionably a more polished product. Yes, it has a smaller boot than the EX30, and it isn’t as rewarding to drive, but it has a better thought-out interior and tonnes of standard kit, plus it’s available with more competitive finance deals. Factor in greater efficiency and a longer real-world range and the #1 clinches the victory
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1st – Smart #1
For Generously equipped; more comfortable seats; more rear leg room; attractive finance deals; superior efficiency
Against Small boot; loses value at a faster rate; low-speed ride is a bit fidgety
Recommended options None
For Sharper handling; well-controlled ride; slightly quieter cruiser; more practical boot
Against Disappointing efficiency; very few physical controls and no separate instrument panel; Plus trim misses out on some important kit
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Volvo EX30 review >>
Volvo EX30 deals >>
Specifications: Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Plus
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 268bhp
Peak torque 253lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, rear-wheel drive
0-60mph 5.5sec
30-70mph in kickdown 4.6sec
Top speed 112mph
30-0mph braking 9.8m
70-0mph braking 52.4m
Noise at 30mph 58.3dB
Noise at 70mph 65.9dB
Kerb weight 1850kg
Battery capacity (usable) 64kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Peak charging rate 153kW
Charging time 7kW home wallbox (0-100%) 10hr 15min
Charging time rapid charger, peak rate (10-80%) 26min
Real-world range 179 miles
Official range 296 miles
Efficiency on test 2.7 miles/kWh
Tyres (standard) 245/45 R19
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Specifications: Smart #1 Premium
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 268bhp
Peak torque 253lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, rear-wheel drive
0-60mph 5.9sec
30-70mph in kickdown 4.8sec
Top speed 112mph
30-0mph braking 10.9m
70-0mph braking 53.9m
Noise at 30mph 58.3dB
Noise at 70mph 65.3dB
Kerb weight 1888kg
Battery capacity (usable) 62kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Peak charging rate 150kW
Charging time 7kW home wallbox (0-100%) 10hr
Charging time rapid charger, peak rate (10-80%) 26min
Real-world range 190 miles
Official range 273 miles
Efficiency on test 3.1 miles/kWh
Tyres (standard) 235/45 R18
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Weather conditions Damp, 6deg C
Cars pictured
Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Plus with Vapour Grey metallic paint
Smart #1 Premium with Digital White metallic paint and Eclipse Black roof
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