Volkswagen ID.4 Vs Volvo EX30: Which One Wins?

Key Points

• The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Volvo EX30 both have a range of 275 miles between charges and offer optional All-Wheel-Drive and larger batteries for longer ranges.
• The Volkswagen ID.4 is more cost-effective, with a starting price of $38,995, while the Volvo EX30 ranges from $34,950 to $60,000 depending on the model.
• The Volvo EX30 incorporates Volvo’s signature Safe Space Technology and offers advanced safety features such as the Advanced Driver Alert System and Door Opening Alert.
• The Volkswagen ID.4 is eligible for a $7500 U.S. tax credit, while the Volvo EX30, initially made in China, is not eligible for a federal tax credit.
• The Volkswagen ID.4 offers two drivetrain options with 201 horsepower for RWD and 295 horsepower for AWD, while the Volvo EX30 has a base model with 268 horsepower and a premium AWD version with 428 horsepower.

Comparing two EVs is often like reviewing two different apples — there are more similarities than differences. Many major brands are jumping on the electric vehicle bandwagon, and Volkswagen and Volvo are significant players in the game. Which EV wins between the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Volvo EX30? We compare them side by side and let you decide. 

Volkswagen ID.4 vs Volvo EX30: Side-by-Side Comparison

These statistics are from the manufacturer’s websites. The EX30 is not set for release until Summer 2024, so real side-by-side performance comparisons will have to wait.

Volkswagen ID.4 vs Volvo EX30: What’s the Difference?

These two EVs both seek to make an introduction: the Volkswagen ID.4 is a perfect starter EV for those transitioning from traditional models, and the Volvo EX30 is the brand’s first step into the EV world. EX30s are unavailable for delivery until Summer 2024, but a $500 deposit will reserve yours at a local dealer. How do they compare and what is different? 

Range

Numerous variables affect the range of EVs but both these models claim a respectable range of 275 miles between charges. The growing availability of public charging stations in many larger cities makes this no problem and home charging stations are becoming more affordable. 

Charging at home is simple for each brand. The ID.4 is compatible with 110- or 240-volt connections and supports fast charging at numerous DC outlets. Also, a new 2023 Volkswagen ID. 4 comes with three years of public DC fast charging on the Electrify America network. 

The EX30 is also easily charged at home, with speeds between 134 and 153 kW. It will also readily charge on many public DC fast charging stations like other Volvo EVs. In fact, Volvo has stated that DC fast chargers can recharge an EX30 battery from 10 to 80% in less than 30 minutes. 

Both brand models offer optional All-Wheel-Drive and a larger battery that could produce longer ranges, but most reviews stick with 275 as the common range. 

Price

The Volkswagen ID.4 base model is the most cost effective option beginning at $38,995 MSRP, but the AWD Pro S with single-speed automatic transmission has a starting MSRP of $53,190. The ID.4 standard model is an affordable starter EV that VW has marketed to new EV consumers with great success. 

The Volvo EX30 will be available in the three typical trim models: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. The Core Single Motor Extended Range, RWD begins at $34,950 MSRP while AWD models can reach between $50,000 and $60,000. Volvo is reaching for a more distinguished audience with the EX30, although the Core model is still within range of new EV consumers on a budget. 

Safety

Volvo is well-known for producing extremely safe vehicles; the EX30 follows that pattern. Incorporating Volvo’s signature Safe Space Technology, the EX30 offers the Advanced Driver Alert System with eye-monitoring technology and motion sensors as standard equipment on all models. The new Door Opening Alert lets drivers know if vehicles are approaching while opening the door. 

Volkswagen is no slouch when it comes to safety and the patented IQ.DRIVE is included on the ID.4. It features driver assistance technologies like blind-spot monitors, rear traffic alert, front assist, lane assist, travel assist, and modern cruise control that adapts to the driver. VW vehicles also have easy access to controls that reduce distractions and make driving safer. 

Tax Credits

Jumping on the EV bandwagon can qualify individuals for some significant tax savings. Volkswagen markets the ID.4 with an enticing possible eligibility for a $7500 U.S. tax credit. While it doesn’t help at the time of purchase, this is still an impressive perk for purchasing the ID.4. 

The Volvo EX30 will at least initially be made in China, so it is not eligible for a federal tax credit. Rumors say that Volvo can begin assembling the EX30 at their South Carolina plant, but as of this date, there have been no official statements. 

Drivetrain

The Volkswagen ID.4 offers two choices for the drivetrain: an RWD with 201 horsepower and an AWD model with 295 horsepower. The AWD model can tow up to 2700 pounds, which is quite impressive for an EV. 

The Volvo EX30 base model features a 59 kWh LFP battery and 268 horsepower. The premium AWD version has a larger 69 kWh battery that generates 428 horsepower, with a maximum towing capacity of 2000 pounds. 

Volkswagen ID.4 vs Volvo EX30: 6 Must-Know Facts

• The Volvo EX30 is unavailable until Summer 2024 but can be reserved now. 
• The EX30 is Volvo’s smallest-ever SUV.
• The Volvo EX30 is available in RWD and AWD drivetrain models. 
• Purchasing a Volkswagen ID.4 may qualify you for up to a $7500 federal tax credit. 
• 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vehicles are assembled in Chattanooga, TN.
• The Volkswagen ID.4 has an eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the High Voltage Battery. 

Volkswagen ID.4 vs Volvo EX30: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Choose?

The clear winner between the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Volvo EX30 is the new ID.4. Both EVs have impressive features for driver safety, convenience, and savings, but the ID.4 is a much easier starter EV, plus it has pleasing amenities to satisfy most electric car aficionados. Getting into a high-end, brand-new EV for less $40,000 with available upgrades to AWD for about another grand is as good as it gets.

Examine both at your local dealership and explore the amenities, features, and pricing before making your purchase decision. 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©ginger_polina_bublik/Shutterstock.com.