The 2008 Volvo C30 is a sporty new vehicle from the Ford-owned Swedish automaker. It’s a two-door with a rear hatch, and is the smallest and least expensive car in Volvo’s lineup.
C30 measures about 167 inches long by 60 inches wide, has seating for four people, and comes in two versions: T5 1.0 and T5 2.0. Base pricing is $23,445 for the 1.0 and $26,445 for the 2.0. These prices include a $745 destination charge.
The difference between the two models is mainly in their standard features; both have front-wheel drive and are powered by the same turbocharged T5 five-cylinder engine generating 227 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque at 1,500 to 5,000 rpm. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual, and a six-speed automatic is available as an option.
Volvo touts the C30 as “the only Volvo to offer total free will” through a special Custom Build ordering process. For a one-time charge of $300, buyers have access to more than 30 accessory items and exterior and interior color combinations for creating their own customized car.
Among the standard features on the T5 1.0 are power windows, remote keyless entry, power mirrors, air conditioning, tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio system controls, 50/50 split folding rear seat, eight-speaker stereo system with CD player and MP3 capability, anti-lock brakes, side curtain airbags, and a rear fog light with auto-off.
The standard upholstery is Kalix T-Tec, a very cool and upscale fabric that is best described as being like wetsuit material.
My T5 2.0 tester’s standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, dynamic stability control, rollover protection system, a ground effects package (including a rear-mounted roof spoiler), and a premium Dynaudio sound system with 10 speakers and Sirius satellite radio.
Options on the tester, which included the $300 Custom Build charge, were metallic paint, front fog lights, outside temperature gauge, sport gearshift knob and steering wheel, and cruise control.
C30’s exterior styling is sleek and aerodynamic, with wheels pushed out close to the corners for a sporty appearance as well as a sporty driving experience. The rear view, though, is what most distinguishes the C30 from other vehicles on the road. It features a large window, darkly tinted, that dips down almost to the license plate. It’s different, for sure, but I don’t much care for it. I think it detracts from the car’s otherwise great looks. And from a practical standpoint, I don’t like other motorists being able to easily see everything in the cargo area.
Even with tall adults in the front seats, rear seat leg room is generous enough to accommodate children and smaller adults in decent comfort.
Like all models in the current Volvo lineup, interior styling is clean and contemporary, including the company’s trademark slim center stack. Controls are simple, well-placed and easy to use.
For a car in this class, power and performance leave nothing to be desired, and ride quality is quite good. My tester’s six-speed manual transmission was a joy to work.
The C30 offers Volvo quality along with a high fun-to-drive factor, good cargo-carrying versatility (notwithstanding that window), and a reasonable price tag.
Fuel efficiency puts the finishing touch on this fine little car: 19 mpg for city driving and 28 mpg on the highway.
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