2011 Volvo C30 at Frankfurt Motor Show
- Competes with: Mini Cooper S, Volkswagen Golf/GTI
- Looks like: The C30 got a more interesting nose to go with its distinctive tail
- Drivetrain: Turbocharged five-cylinder with 227 hp; 21/30 mpg city/highway
- Hits dealerships: First quarter 2010
Volvo’s distinctive C30 coupe has been updated and will be introduced later this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show. In addition to styling changes that bring it in line with the rest of Volvo’s recent models, an optional sport treatment is claimed to put it more in contention with sporty European models like the Mini Cooper S, with which it’s intended to compete. It’s scheduled to hit the U.S. in the first quarter of 2010 and will likely be a 2011 model.
Where the C30 had — and still has — an unmistakable rear end, its nose looked more conservative, like the S40 sedan. Now it emulates bolder designs like the XC60 SUV and other models that have been restyled, like the C70 convertible — also set to debut in Frankfurt. The nose sweeps more fluidly into the hood, and the headlights extend way back into redesigned fenders. The chin spoiler is lower. The grille has the more prominent new Volvo logo, and the lower air intake is larger and optionally dressed up with an aluminum-look, non-functional skid-plate along with matching fog light bezels, side scuff plates and a rear skid-plate appliqué.
Even in C30s without the “styling kit,” as it’s called, there’s less black plastic low on the body, and Volvo now offers several accent colors in addition to the matching body color. Though interior changes are modest, there are likewise multiple fabric and color choices, including some bright contrast colors.
Unfortunately, the U.S. will continue to get only the T5 trim level, whose 227-horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder delivers a relatively thirsty EPA-estimated 21/30 mpg. At least now the power is complemented by a new sport chassis option with a lower steering ratio and firmer springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bars. A six-speed manual and five-speed automatic are available. More photos below.
