There's no doubt, Volvo's C30 has been developed to provide a sporty image for the Swedish automaker. It seems like it was just a few short years ago that Volvo was better known for producing underpowered boxy sedans.
Now, the C30 marks the most dramatic styling we've seen from Volvo. Based on the Volvo SCC concept car, and sharing certain platform components with the S40, the C30 enters the compact car premium segment as the smallest and most expressive car in Volvo's model range.
It's been some thirty years since we've seen a two-door Volvo on our shores. How many remember the two-door Volvo 1800ES of the 1970s. The 1800ES, like the new C30, offered a large glass hatch. The glass hatch on the C30 lends to improved rear visibility. Speaking of visibility, the C30 is not the type of car you'll have trouble finding in a crowded shopping mall parking lot.
The C30 is as unique looking as you can get and thanks to a "Custom Build" program, C30 offers individuality. First, there are 17 exterior and 12 interior color combinations.
Secondly, the Custom Build program allows owners to select from a pool of options with over 5 million possible combinations. With the Custom Build program, there is a one-time $300 fee, but it opens the door to more options than we have room to list.
In keeping with today's terminology, there are two PC-software themed trim designations of the C30; Version 1.0 ($22,700) and Version 2.0 ($25,700).
The well-equipped Version 1.0 includes 17-inch wheels, full power accessories, tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel and a fine CD audio system.
Version 2.0 adds 18-inch wheels, a sport body kit, aluminum dash inlays and a premium sound system with Sirius satellite radio (including a 6-month subscription).
Both software, er trim versions do feature the same engine, though. The C30 is powered by a turbocharged T5 5-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower.
The front-wheel drive C30 sends its power through either a standard 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to its small size, the C30 is fun to drive. While not as agile as others in this segment, the C30 is nonetheless, entertaining and enthusiastic.
Both C30 versions include anti-lock brakes and Volvo's Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) as standard equipment. Like other Volvos, the C30 is one of the safest vehicles in its segment. Volvo's Intelligent Vehicle Architecture (VIVA), first introduced in the XC90 SUV, is a key component of Volvo's smallest car.
Side-impact airbags, Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS) are standard on all C30 models. Seating inside the C30 is for four. I found plenty of room up front for my 6'3" frame, but there isn't much rear legroom with the front seats all the way back. The seats are very comfortable and I liked the large headrests.
The standard sound system in the Version 1.0 is a 160-watt system. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the optional (standard in Version 2.0) 650-watt system. It features an Alpine amplifier, Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, and 10 speakers from Danish loudspeaker manufacturer Dynaudio. Both systems come standard with an auxiliary jack for connecting MP3 players, and an in-dash CD that can playback MP3 and WMA format music files. In my Version 2.0 tester, the radio and climate control systems shared the same digital display and you couldn't see settings for both at the same time.
Other than that, I liked the remote-like controls on the center stack. They're intuitive and easy to reach. With the long list of options, and the Custom Build program, it's nice to be able to pick exactly what you want, but the price can soar quickly towards $30k. If you're looking for a small, sporty, well-appointed, safe, fun-to-drive, unique car, the C30 should delight your taste buds.
2008 Volvo C30
Engine: Turbocharged I5
Transmission:5-speed automatic
Drive Type:FWD
Fuel Economy: 19 city/27 highway
Base Price: $25,700
As Tested: $29,350 (includes $745 for destination)
Website:
www.volvocars.com