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smart #1 vs Volvo EX30 comparison

Compare performance (368 HP vs 428 HP), boot space and price (40,700 £ vs 30,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – smart #1 or Volvo EX30?

smart #1 vs Volvo EX30: Key differences

smart #1

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Volvo EX30

3.7 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • markedly cheaper
  • a bit more power
  • only slightly more efficient
  • a bit more electric range
  • noticeably quicker 0–100 km/h
  • only slightly lighter
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

#1

The Battle of Electric SUVs: Smart #1 vs. Volvo EX30

As the automotive industry leans heavily towards electrification, two standout contenders in the compact electric SUV segment are the Smart #1 and the Volvo EX30. Both vehicles showcase the latest in EV technology and design, offering sustainable driving solutions without compromising on performance or style. Let's dive into the specifics of each model to see how they stack up against each other.

EX30

Performance and Power

When it comes to performance, both the Smart #1 and the Volvo EX30 offer impressive specifications. The Smart #1 delivers a power range of 272 to 428 HP with torque figures ranging from 343 to an impressive 584 Nm. Meanwhile, the Volvo EX30 matches the Smart #1 in horsepower at 272 to 428 HP, but offers a slightly lower maximum torque of 543 Nm.

Acceleration-wise, the Smart #1 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.9 to 6.7 seconds depending on the variant, whereas the Volvo EX30 performs similarly, achieving the feat in 3.6 to 5.7 seconds. Both SUVs cap their speed at 180 km/h, ensuring that speed is balanced with safety and efficiency.

#1

Electric Range and Efficiency

Range anxiety is a common concern for electric vehicle consumers, and both models offer reassuring figures. The Smart #1 presents a range between 310 to 440 km, while the Volvo EX30 stretches slightly further with a range of 339 to 476 km on a full charge. In terms of energy consumption, the Smart #1 varies from 16.8 to 18.2 kWh/100km, slightly higher than the Volvo EX30 which consumes between 17 to 18.7 kWh/100km.

EX30

Battery and Charging

Battery capacity is critical for performance and range. The Smart #1 is available with either a 47 kWh or 62 kWh battery. In comparison, the Volvo EX30 offers a slightly larger capacity, ranging from 49 kWh to 65 kWh. These capacities align with their respective range offerings, providing flexibility based on consumer needs and driving habits.

#1

Design and Dimensions

Size matters in urban environments, and here both vehicles shine with compact dimensions tailored for city driving. The Smart #1 measures 4270 to 4300 mm in length, 1822 mm in width, and 1636 mm in height, offering a balance of interior space and external dimensions. Contrastingly, the Volvo EX30 is slightly shorter and narrower at 4233 mm in length and 1837 mm in width, with a height of 1549 to 1567 mm, depending on the model.

EX30

Interior and Cargo Space

Interior comfort is paramount, with both models seating up to five passengers. When it comes to cargo space, the Smart #1 offers a trunk capacity of 313 to 323 liters, while the Volvo EX30 offers up to 318 liters. Although both provide adequate space for everyday needs, longer trips may require strategic packing.

#1

Conclusion: Choosing Your Electric Companion

The Smart #1 and Volvo EX30 each bring their unique strengths to the table in the electric SUV category. The Smart #1 offers a slightly more powerful torque and diverse range dimensions, while the Volvo EX30 leads in battery efficiency and extended range. Your choice between these contenders will largely depend on your priorities, whether it be raw acceleration, range, or efficiency. Both models exemplify what it means to drive into the future of automotive design and innovation.

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Volvo EX30
Volvo EX60
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Volvo EC40
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

#1

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Volvo EX30 is markedly cheaper – starting at 30,000 £ , while the smart #1 costs 40,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 10,714 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the Volvo EX30 is only slightly more efficient: consuming 17 kWh/100km compared to 18.2 kWh/100km for the smart #1. That’s a difference of about 1.2 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Volvo EX30 offers a bit more range – reaching up to 475 km, about 75 km more than the smart #1.

EX30

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Volvo EX30 offers a bit more power – delivering 428 HP compared to 368 HP. That’s roughly 60 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Volvo EX30 is noticeably quicker – completing the sprint in 3.6 s, while the smart #1 takes 4.9 s. That’s about 1.3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Volvo EX30 delivers moderately more torque with 543 Nm compared to 470 Nm. That’s about 73 Nm more.

#1

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Volvo EX30 is only slightly lighter – 1,840 kg compared to 1,900 kg. The difference is around 60 kg.

When it comes to payload, the smart #1 carries only slightly more – 425 kg compared to 390 kg. That’s a difference of about 35 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Volvo EX30 is decisively ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £30,000
EX30

Volvo EX30

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 428 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 17 - 18.3 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 339 - 475 km
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smart #1
Volvo EX30

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

smart #1

The Smart #1 feels like a breath of fresh air in the compact EV world, pairing playful styling with usable space and a cabin that punches above its size. It skips the fuss and delivers an easygoing, city-friendly driving experience with clever features that make it a sensible, slightly cheeky choice for everyday motoring.

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Reviews smart #1

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Volvo EX30

The Volvo EX30 arrives as a compact electric with crisp Scandinavian design and a cheeky personality, proving you can be serious about safety and still enjoy a grin on your commute. Its cabin is cleverly packaged and delightfully easy to live with, offering smart tech and practical touches that make it feel like a grown-up's city car with a sense of fun.

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Reviews Volvo EX30

3.7 (6 Reviews)
rate
Michael
10 Feb 2026, 21:18:58

...the best electric car we've driven so far. Trouble-free, safe, tidy and easy to use.

The German predecessors (the Wolfsburg group) can be completely forgotten!

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Julien B.
10 Feb 2026, 15:47:03

A car that could have been brilliant, ruined by technological dogmatism. Ninety‑five percent of this car’s problems are between the windshield and the steering wheel. The positives are undone by a botched implantation of technology at all costs. Basic functions are hard to access, buried in menus, and the constant, useless warnings and alerts make the experience frustrating and wreck the overall ergonomics. Add recurring issues with the door‑locking system that the dealer can’t fix after several visits, a range far below what’s promised, and a collision‑avoidance system that randomly takes dangerous initiatives, and I can say this is the worst car I’ve ever bought. After several months, I deeply regret this purchase.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Marco
30 Dec 2025, 12:53:45

The onboard tech (tablet) takes too long to learn. It distracts from driving. Not suitable for the nearsighted — the tablet’s distance from your eyes basically forces you to wear trifocals. Letting off the gas slows the car, but it’s overly sensitive and you need time to get used to it. The buzzer for exceeding the speed limit is very annoying, and the system notices changes in road signs late. In short: driving it is stressful.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
NickoNamo
22 Dec 2025, 18:10:11

Compact, attractive and—above all—safe car with a modern interior.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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smart #1
Volvo EX30

Costs and Consumption
Price
40,700 £
Price
30,000 - 47,800 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
18.2 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
17 - 18.3 kWh/100km
Electric Range
400 km
Electric Range
339 - 475 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,900 kg
Curb weight
1,840 - 1,960 kg
Trunk capacity
313 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,822 mm
Width
1,838 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
425 kg
Payload
370 - 390 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
368 HP
Power HP
150 - 428 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.6 - 8.6 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
470 Nm
Torque
343 - 543 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
271 kW
Power kW
110 - 315 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
smart
Brand
Volvo
What drive types are available for the smart #1?

The smart #1 is available as All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.