Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2008 Volvo C30 Full Review
Date Published: 6/12/08
Also in the 2008 Volvo C30 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo C30 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Volvo C30 Review
The 2008 Volvo C30 is a new 2-door hatchback from this Swedish automaker. The C30 is Volvo's smallest car, and it shares its basic design with the company's S40 sedan and V50 wagon. C30 is 8.5 inches shorter and 320 pounds lighter than the S40. Available trim levels include Version 1.0, Version 2.0, and top-line R-Design. All use a 227-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. All have four bucket-style seats. Version 2.0 adds an upgraded sound system, satellite radio, rear spoiler, sport suspension, and 18-inch wheels and tires that replace Version 1.0's 17s. Many options for Version 1.0 and 2.0 are only available as part of the "Volvo C30 Custom Build" program that requires an additional fee. R-Design versions don't require this charge.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.
Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A3 and Saab 9-3.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Volvo C30.
Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A3 and Saab 9-3.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Volvo C30.
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Volvo C30 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Instruments/controls | Rear-seat entry/exit |
| Front-seat comfort | Rear-seat room |
| Acceleration | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
No manual-transmission C30s have been made available for testing. With automatic, C30 is peppy in all situations, with smooth, crisp shifts and little turbo lag.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.5 |
No manual-transmission C30s have been made available for testing. With automatic, C30 is peppy in all situations, with smooth, crisp shifts and little turbo lag.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, C30s with automatic transmission averaged 18.6 mpg in mostly city driving, 26.3 in mostly highway use. C30 uses regular-grade gas.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, C30s with automatic transmission averaged 18.6 mpg in mostly city driving, 26.3 in mostly highway use. C30 uses regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality
No opportunity to test a Version 1.0. Version 2.0's stiff sport suspension and 18-inch tires make for an always-firm ride, with abrupt vertical motions over sharp bumps.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 4 | 5.5 |
No opportunity to test a Version 1.0. Version 2.0's stiff sport suspension and 18-inch tires make for an always-firm ride, with abrupt vertical motions over sharp bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Good grip and balance overall, though fast turns can induce minor noseplow. Precise steering, though some testers find it a bit too light for best control. Brakes are strong and responsive.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 7 | 7.3 |
Good grip and balance overall, though fast turns can induce minor noseplow. Precise steering, though some testers find it a bit too light for best control. Brakes are strong and responsive.
Quietness
Engine is nicely subdued at cruise, though acceleration brings a gruff growl and minor turbo whistle. Wind noise intrudes at highway speeds. Plenty of road/suspension noise at any speed.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 5 | 6.1 |
Engine is nicely subdued at cruise, though acceleration brings a gruff growl and minor turbo whistle. Wind noise intrudes at highway speeds. Plenty of road/suspension noise at any speed.
Controls
The gauges are large and legible. Controls are simple and well-marked.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.2 |
The gauges are large and legible. Controls are simple and well-marked.
Details
Cabin feels upscale, with well-assembled, high-quality materials and fine control movement.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 7 | 7.3 |
Cabin feels upscale, with well-assembled, high-quality materials and fine control movement.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
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.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.9 |
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)
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.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 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
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.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 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
Volvo's sporty, fun-to-drive hatchback offers head-turning styling with a modicum of hatchback practicality. The Version 2.0 models' taut ride may 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.
| Version 2.0, automatic | Class Average |
| 5 | 6.2 |
Volvo's sporty, fun-to-drive hatchback offers head-turning styling with a modicum of hatchback practicality. The Version 2.0 models' taut ride may 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, automatic | Class Average |
| 61 | 65.4 |
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
| Low Score | 59 | |
| Average Score | 65 | |
| High Score | 72 |
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Volvo C30 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/10/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| Version 1.0 2-door hatchback | $22,950 | $21,573 | $745 |
|
|
|||
| Version 2.0 2-door hatchback | $25,700 | $24,158 | $745 |
|
|
|||
| R-Design 2-door hatchback | $25,700 | $24,158 | $745 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Version 1.0
Powertrain
2.5-liter 5-cylinder turbocharged engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel, cloth upholstery, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, outside temperature indicator, intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear fog light, 205/50R17 tires, alloy wheels.
Version 2.0 adds to Version 1.0:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Upgraded sound system, satellite radio.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, sport suspension, 215/45R18 tires.
R-Design adds to Version 2.0:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, leather/cloth upholstery, heated power mirrors, steering wheel radio controls.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: upgraded sound system.
Fog lights.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Climate Pkg.
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$1,025
|
$882
|
|
Heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers w/heated washer nozzles.
|
||
|
|
||
Powertrain |
||
|
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$1,250
|
$1,250
|
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$400
|
$344
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Blind Spot Information System
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$695
|
$598
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$2,205
|
$1,896
|
|
Version 1.0, Version 2.0 require custom build charge.
|
||
|
Automatic climate control
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$250
|
$215
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Interior air quality system
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$200
|
$172
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Cruise control
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$185
|
$159
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$1,200
|
$1,032
|
|
Leather upholstery
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$1,200
|
$1,032
|
|
Upgraded cloth upholstery
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$100
|
$86
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Heated front seats
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$450
|
$387
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Power driver seat
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$450
|
$387
|
|
Version 1.0, Version 2.0 require custom build charge.
|
||
|
Power front seats
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$900
|
$774
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Rear-seat armrest
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$40
|
$34
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD player
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$475
|
$409
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Upgraded sound system
|
||
|
1.0, R
|
$800
|
$688
|
|
Version 1.0 requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Satellite radio
|
||
|
1.0
|
$295
|
$254
|
|
Keyless access and starting
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$450
|
$387
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Power-folding mirrors
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$250
|
$215
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Universal garage door opener
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$225
|
$194
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Trip computer
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$100
|
$86
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Bottle holder
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$25
|
$22
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Automatic day/night rear view mirror
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$150
|
$129
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Automatic day/night rear view mirror w/compass
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$250
|
$215
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Rain-sensing wipers
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$175
|
$151
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Aluminum steering wheel trim
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$150
|
$129
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Leather/aluminum shift knob
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$100
|
$86
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Hard cargo cover
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$180
|
$155
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Soft cargo cover
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$80
|
$69
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Cargo net
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$145
|
$125
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Ash tray, lighter
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$25
|
$22
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Bi-xenon headlights
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$700
|
$602
|
|
Version 1.0, Version 2.0 require custom build charge.
|
||
|
Headlight washers
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$400
|
$344
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Front fog lights
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$295
|
$254
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Rear spoiler
|
||
|
1.0
|
$200
|
$172
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
R-Design, Version 1.0, Version 2.0
|
$475
|
$409
|
|
Version 1.0, Version 2.0 require custom build charge for some colors.
|
||
|
Premium paint
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$625
|
$538
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Laminated door glass
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$300
|
$258
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Alarm
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$200
|
$172
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Sport suspension
|
||
|
1.0
|
$275
|
$237
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Tire repair kit
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$150
|
$129
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
205/50R17 tires
|
||
|
2.0
|
$25
|
$22
|
|
R
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
2.0 requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Unique alloy wheels
|
||
|
1.0
|
$300
|
$258
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Chrome alloy wheels
|
||
|
1.0
|
$995
|
$856
|
|
Requires custom build charge.
|
||
|
Custom build charge
|
||
|
1.0, 2.0
|
$300
|
$258
|
|
Fee for car ordered with one or more options requiring custom order charge.
|
||
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Volvo C30 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Volvo C30 2-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 167.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3201 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 20.2 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.2 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.2 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| Turbocharged dohc I5 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.5 /154 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 227 @ 5000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 236 @ 1500 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 6-speed manual | 19/28 |
| 5-speed automatic | 19/27 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Volvo C30 2-door hatchback |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | --/7500 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Belgium
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Volvo C30 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo C30 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Locate a Dealer
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Acura
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Ford
GMC
Honda
Hummer
Hyundai
Infiniti
Isuzu
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pontiac
Porsche
Rolls-Royce
Roush
Saab
Saturn
Scion
Smart
Subaru
Suzuki
Toyota
Volkswagen