Volvo C30 Car Review

FamilyCar Rating: Model Reviewed: Volvo C30 T5 2.5L Turbo 6 Speed Manual $42,450* Other models priced from: LE Automatic $39,950*

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HerCar Review

The Volvo C30 is the latest edition to the Volvo range. It's a sporty 2 door hatch, reminiscent of the 1800 from the late '60s and '70s (for those who can remember that far back like me, although I was young). There are currently 2 model variants the 2.5 litre T5 (turbo) and LE 2.4 litre. Later this year we will see the arrival of the entry model S and diesel D5, both of which will be available in manual and automatic.

The vehicle is unashamedly marketed to young singles and couples, a move away from their traditional family market. It competes against the Audi A3, Alfa 147, Mini, VW Golf, (GTi) and 1 Series BMW. The functionality of the car suggests that this is the right positioning as the boot space is not particularly large and there are only 2 seats in the rear, making it a 4 seater.

Looking at the car from the front there is no mistaking that it is part of the Volvo gene pool. However, from behind it's a different story. It has distinctive European styling cues with a large glass hatch and “horse shoe” shaped rear tail lights. These, along with the twin exhausts and 17” alloy wheels, give it a real sporty look from the side and rear.

The sports coupe lives up to its reputation when getting behind the steering wheel and giving it a whirl on the freeway. The T5 is an impressive drive. Not only because of the power output (165kWs) which gives you a thrill when you put your foot down, but also because of the high torque which means that you've got plenty of power in each gear, particularly 3rd.

Safety remains important to Volvo, even in its baby C30. The driver and front passenger have 3 airbags each which include front, side and curtain (to protect the head in side collisions). There is also Anti-lock Braking System, Traction Control, Emergency Brake Assist and Whiplash Protection System. A really clever feature on the car is BLIS. This is a sensor and light system that lets you know when there's a vehicle next to you, so you'll never have a blind spot again. Add to this, great visibility out of the front, side and rear windows, which make it really easy to change lanes and park safely.

The storage space is good, with a lockable glovebox with a light, door pockets and 2 drink holders. The boot space is not very deep which makes it a bit limiting with certain shaped items. Although the rear seats are split fold, which gives you a bit more flexibility. It's also got a 6 stacker CD player located in the dash and a great sound system (10 speakers!!) with iPod compatibility. There are audio controls located on the steering wheel, as well as cruise control-both of which add convenience and make for safer driving as your eyes can be kept on the road.

The interior trim is very stylish with really good quality leather seats coming in a range of colours. There's great attention to detail inside including aluminum inlays and a choice of very cool centre console designs, one of which has been created by a European fashion designer!

The Volvo C30 will give the other models in its class a run for their money. It has unique styling, performs really well and is great value for money. It's for those who appreciate performance and style and don't feel the need to be driving a German car.

Features of Model Reviewed

Airbags:	Driver and front passenger SRS airbags, curtain and side in front and rear
ABS:	Yes
Driver visibility:
Storage compartments:
Drink holders:	2
CD player:	6 disc CD changer in dash
Air conditioning:	Climate Control
Power windows:	Yes
Power steering:	Yes
Power door mirrors:	Yes
Transmission:	6 speed manual
Engine capacity:	2.5 litre Turbo
Fuel economy:	12.5 litres/100kms
Fuel type:	Premium Unleaded
Warranty:	3 year, 100,000km
Price:	$42,450*

 

*Excludes on road costs
Information is correct at the time of review. Please check with your local Volvo dealer for the most recent information.