Vehicle Overview
Volvo brought a dose of style to the premium hatchback segment with the introduction of the C30 a few years ago. The four-seat C30 is based on Volvo’s S40 sedan, which has been discontinued — along with the related V50 wagon — for 2012. The C30 competes with other small, premium cars like the Volkswagen GTI and Mini Cooper S.
New for 2012
Model choices expand to six from two with the addition of Premier Plus and Platinum trim levels for both the base C30 T5 and the T5 R-Design. The Premier Plus includes a power sunroof, power driver’s and front passenger’s seats and LED daytime running lights. The Platinum trim level adds a premium stereo, navigation system and satellite radio. Bluetooth connectivity and a security system are now standard.
Exterior
The C30 received a larger grille for 2011 that resembles the one on Volvo’s XC60 crossover and imparts a contemporary look. One of the more interesting design elements of the two-door C30 is its glass hatch. Volvo says it lends an open feel to the interior; bystanders can see the center dashboard controls from behind. Exterior features include:
- Available headlight washers and rain-sensing wipers
- Available adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
- 17-inch wheels on T5
- 18-inch wheels on T5 R-Design
Interior
Volvo says four adults can fit inside the compact C30. Rear bucket seats are positioned slightly inward of the front seats, allowing more forward visibility. In front, the dashboard has an ultra-thin center panel that incorporates climate and audio controls. Interior features include:
- Cloth seats standard, leather seats optional
- Standard dual-zone climate control
- Standard CD stereo with an auxiliary jack
- Standard trip computer
- Upgraded stereo optional
- Optional navigation system with real-time traffic data
- Backseat folds forward
Under the Hood
The front-drive C30 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five-cylinder engine. Mechanical features include:
- 227 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque
- Six-speed manual standard
- Five-speed automatic optional
Safety
Safety features include:
- Standard four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
- Standard side-impact and side curtain airbags
- Standard traction control
- Standard electronic stability system
- Standard active front head restraints
- Optional blind spot warning system
