Rally-inspired performance cars have been growing in popularity in recent years, with the Ariel Nomad, Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, Morgan Plus Four CX-T, and Porsche 911 Dakar showing how to turn a sports car into an off-roader. However, these models were always exclusive due to being based on sports cars, and commanding pricetags of over £200,000. Now, a more attainable model comes from an unlikely source: Volvo.

The brand’s smallest car, the electric EX30, has gained a dedicated off-road variant. Its suspension has been raised by 19mm, features a 5-link rear axle, and has been tuned to offer a smooth ride on all surfaces. The car features skidplates at both ends, a subtle roof spoiler, and redesigned bumpers. Wheel arch extensions have been added, and these shroud the new 19” grey and black alloy wheels.

The nose of the EX30 Cross Country has a matte black strip, which on closer inspection features topographic map detailing, and the coordinates for the Kebnekaise mountain in northern Sweden. Similar to the new Aston Martin Vanquish coupé, the bootlid features a black insert, and the Cross Country wordmark features on both bumpers, on the C-pillars.

The car is powered by two electric motors delivering 422bhp and 401lb-ft (543Nm), making it one of the most powerful models in the compact SUV class. 0-62mph takes just 3.8 seconds, and the car will hit its 112mph speed limiter not long afterwards.

The motors are fed by a 64kWh usable capacity battery, offering a maximum range of 265 WLTP miles - a drop of 14 miles compared to the EX30 Performance that the Cross Country is based on. DC rapid charging from 10-80% takes 26 minutes at up to 175kW, while home charging with a 7.4kW wallbox takes around 8 hours from flat to full.

There’s room for five within the minimalist cabin, and all driver information is contained within the 12.3” portrait infotainment display. The Google-based system shows speed and range at the top of the screen, while navigation, air conditioning, and more is accessible via the touch-sensitive section. The display is flanked by air vents with transparent vanes, and there’s a choice of a light blue or green fabric interior at no extra cost.

UK specifications have been confirmed for the EX30 Cross Country, and all models will come in top-spec Ultra trim. This includes adaptive cruise control, 360-degree cameras, heated front seats, a Harman Kardon sound bar, panoramic sunroof, 22kW AC charging capability, rear privacy glass, and much more. The five exterior colours are all included in the £47,060 price.

A foldable towbar can be specified to take advantage of the car’s 1,600kg towing capacity, while the roof rails and basket shown in the images are available for £235, and £375 respectively. For drivers planning to take the direct route across the countryside, a set of 18” wheels with 235/55 all-terrain tyres can be ordered for £2,050.

The new model is available to order now, and while there are similarly sized rivals from Skoda and smart, only the EX30 Cross Country brings all-terrain capabilities to the class.