2008 Volvo C30: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.