2008 Volvo C30: Road Test
2008 Volvo C30 ▼
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- MSRP: $22,950 - $25,700
- Invoice: $21,573 - $24,158
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Our road test for the 2008 Volvo C30 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Volvo C30 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Volvo C30, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Volvo C30 help you decide if a 2008 Volvo C30 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
With the manual transmission, C30 is eager to rev, with good throttle response and satisfying strength at mid-range speeds. With the automatic, C30 is similarly peppy in all situations, with smooth, crisp shifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a C30 with manual transmission averaged 25.9 mpg with slightly more highway driving than city use. With the automatic transmission, test models averaged 18.6 mpg in mostly city driving and 26.3 with more highway driving. C30 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
No opportunity to test a Version 1.0. Version 2.0's stiff sport suspension and 18-inch tires make for a ride that's borderline harsh, with abrupt vertical motions over sharp bumps.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Good grip and balance overall, though fast turns can induce minor noseplow. Some testers find the steering a bit vague on center, though it has positive turn-in feedback. Brakes are strong and responsive.
QUIETNESS
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.1 |
Engine is nicely subdued at cruise, though acceleration brings a gruff growl and minor turbo whistle, especially above 4000 rpm. Wind noise is noticeable, though it's hardly bothersome even at highway speeds. Road noise is plentiful at any speed.
CONTROLS
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
The gauges are large and legible. The controls are well marked, though some testers complain of too many look-alike buttons, which can be hard to locate at a glance.
DETAILS
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Cabin feels upscale, with well-assembled, high-quality materials and fine control movement. Shoppers in warm climates should probably avoid the optional metal trim for the steering wheel and shift knob, as they get quite hot on sunny days.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Ample headroom and legroom. Seats are firm yet comfortable and nicely bolstered for spirited cornering. A standard tilt and telescopic steering column helps tailor good driving position.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
Headroom is just adequate for those under 5-ft-6, and legroom is cramped if front seats are set far back. Entry and exit require contortions.
CARGO ROOM
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
Minimal, even by small hatchback standards. Rear seatbacks fold easily, though the load floor isn't flat and the rear hatch opening is tight and oddly shaped. Some testers disliked the C30's all-glass hatch, which leaves cargo plainly visible from the outside--and no cargo cover is available. Small-items storage space is also subpar.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6.2 |
Volvo's entry-level hatchback is easy to live with and feels "Euro premium." The Version 2.0 models' taut ride will likely turn off some shoppers, and bargain pricing isn't part of the equation. Sticker prices can quickly spiral past the $30K mark as options are tacked on.
Total Score
| Version 2.0, manual | Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | 60 | 65.4 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
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