The Volvo EX30 has been announced as a finalist in the prestigious South African Car of the Year competition sponsored by Old Mutual Insure. The all-electric crossover, which is enjoying substantial global sales success, is one of 17 finalists and the only fully electric vehicle vying for the crown in 2025. The announcement comes after the latest round of voting by the SACOTY jury.
“We’re delighted to see the EX30 is a finalist in the South African Car of the Year competition sponsored by Old Mutual Insure,” commented Felipe Yagi, Head of Marketing & Communications at Volvo Car South Africa. “Having racked up multiple international awards, the EX30 has proven itself to be a class-leading vehicle and has already garnered many fans in South Africa, where it continues to be one of the best-selling electric vehicles on the market.”
Globally, the EX30 has amassed myriad awards. Recently, it was named the EV of the Year at the Top Gear South Africa Awards 2024 and was also named the World Urban Car 2024 by World Car Awards, The Sunday Times Small SUV of the Year award, and Carwow’s Car of the Year 2024, among many more.
Testing for the competition begins this March at Zwartkops Raceway, where the jury will evaluate the finalist vehicles in detail. Uniquely, the South African COTY competition is one of the few globally to include physical testing of all finalists. The final scoring also integrates data from Lightstone Auto, with automated scoring factoring in segment sales volumes and competitor pricing adjusted for specifications.
“Congratulations to the finalists selected from the highly competitive semi-finalist group across all COTY categories,” says Mabuyane Mabuza, Chairman of the SAGMJ. “Rapid technological advances intensify the annual competition, with innovative features becoming commonplace, even in entry-level vehicles, showcasing the evolution of automotive technology.”
The EX30 comes packed with advanced technology, offering a range of standard driver assists, safety systems, and infotainment features. Even the Core, which kicks off the three-model range at R791,900, is equipped with standard Adaptive Cruise Control, Google Services, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Collision Warning, and more.
Volvo is well-acquainted with the SACOTY trophy. The XC90 won the title in 2016, and the S40 2.4i earned top honours in 2005.
Driving through the streets of Johannesburg, the Volvo EX30 consistently impressed during a test drive.
Quick Verdict
The EX30 offers a delightful driving experience, and its minimalist interior exudes refinement and uniqueness.
Reasonably priced, the EX30 comes with a comprehensive array of standard safety features and equipment, making it a compelling choice.
With impressive performance and a competitive electric driving range, this battery-powered Volvo model truly stands out.
Tailored for the modern urban lifestyle, the EX30 is a compact luxury car that ticks all the boxes.
The Volvo EX30 – a discreet yet thrilling hot hatch alternative – caters to those who prefer understated elegance.
I believe the EX30 will resonate with both Gen Z and millennials, perfectly embodying their preferences and lifestyles.
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