2027 Volvo EX30 Can Be a Mobile Charger with Over-the-Air Update

• The 2027 Volvo EX30 receives a handful of changes, some of which will be available to older models via an over-the-air update.
• Along with a fresh user interface and new interior options, the electric subcompact SUV adds more Black Editions and a vehicle-to-load feature.
• While Volvo hasn't confirmed whether these updates will apply to U.S.-spec models, we expect many of them will.

Volvo is working to make its smallest and most affordable model more desirable. For 2027, the Volvo EX30 is getting some upgrades, including a new entry-level powertrain and over-the-air software updates that also apply to older vehicles. The subcompact EV SUV's rugged Cross Country trim enjoys some new features too, and the sinister-looking Black Edition is now available on more trims.

The existing EX30's powertrain lineup includes a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup that's good for 268 horsepower and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive option that produces 422 ponies. Now, a third choice joins the group, with Volvo introducing a 148-hp single-motor option. It pairs with either a 51- or 69-kWh battery pack, which is estimated to provide a driving range of between 179 and 251 miles, respectively, based on Europe's optimistic WLTP test cycle. Unlike before, the EX30 Cross Country can be configured with the rear-drive powertrain, but it's most likely limited to the 268-hp version.

Inside, the EX30's vertically oriented touchscreen adopts an improved user interface with a customizable content bar and revised controls that make certain functions easier to access. The little EV already had the hardware to provide vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, which allows the EX30 to use its battery to power external devices, from appliances to camping gear to tools; this will be accessible via an adapter.

Both the revamped infotainment system and V2L feature will be available to new and existing EX30 owners via an over-the-air update. That's not the case for the new interior options. Along with a Harvest theme—light-colored woven upholstery made from recycled materials and dark flax decor—a Black theme is now on the menu, pairing Nordico upholstery with the dark flax decor.

Since these details about the 2027 Volvo EX30 appeared on the automaker's global media site, we'll have to wait to find out which of the updates will apply to models sold in the United States. When Car and Driver contacted a U.S.-based spokesperson about it, they declined to confirm plans for the 2027 models that will be sold on our shores. While we won't be surprised if the 148-hp powertrain doesn't come stateside, the styling tweaks and OTA updates are likely inbound.

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Eric Stafford

Managing Editor, News

Eric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual '97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a '90 Honda CRX Si.