Overview & Reviews

The Volvo C30 may seem like a drastic departure for the Swedish automaker famous for sedans and wagons shaped like big blocks of cheddar, but in reality, it's not without significant family ties. Two-door hatchbacks are certainly not what people think of when Volvo enters a conversation, and true enough, the company hasn't sold one in North America since the 1800ES coupe of the 1970s. But there's a missing link in the C30's design evolution, a car intended for American roads but ultimately never brought over here: the Volvo 480. Sold in Europe from 1986-'95, this hatchback reveals a bit more of the family genes.

Like the 1800ES and 480, the Volvo C30 is a small two-door coupe with a large glass hatchback that provides a distinctive look and abundant rear visibility. Like the 480, the C30 features four bucket seats, front-wheel drive, a turbocharged engine and handling that's sporty but not quite at hot-hatch standards. We're glad that Volvo has once again deemed us worthy of its spunky entry-level coupe.

Current Volvo C30
The Volvo C30 is a compact four-seat, two-door hatchback that's offered in two trims: base T5 and sportier T5 R-Design.

Standard equipment highlights for the T5 include 17-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker CD audio system with an auxiliary audio jack and USB input. Stepping up to the T5 R-Design adds 18-inch wheels, a quicker steering ratio, a sport-tuned suspension, color-coordinated exterior trim, a unique grille, leather seating and blue-faced gauges. Each trim can be upgraded with the Premier Plus or Platinum option packages, which add features such as LED daytime lights, a power sunroof, power seats, driver seat memory, a navigation system and a premium 10-speaker audio system.

Mechanically, the Volvo C30 bears some relation to the recently discontinued S40 sedan and V50 wagon. Its suspension has been tuned to be firmer, but otherwise this is still a car designed with comfort and everyday drivability in mind. Think of it as a warm hatch, not a hot one. Nevertheless, the C30's standard turbocharged five-cylinder engine makes a healthy 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a five-speed automatic optional. With the manual gearbox, the sprint to 60 mph takes just 6.6 seconds.

In reviews, our editors have commented favorably on the C30's spunky yet refined nature. It's sporty enough to satisfy most drivers, yet it retains a comfortable ride. We like the nifty "floating" center stack, too. We think the C30's low base price and lengthy options list should enable it to meet the needs of a variety of different buyers. Whether you're looking for Volvo safety at a budget price or a hip hatch, the C30 fills the bill. However, the numerous luxury options can elevate the C30 above 30-grand territory, and we're not sure it warrants that price.

Used Volvo C30 Models
The Volvo C30 debuted for the 2008 model year with different trim levels than the current car -- Version 1.0 and Version 2.0 -- but much the same available equipment. Two years later, cruise control and Bluetooth became standard and the previously available customization program essentially lived on through numerous options. Notably, the first year's navigation system was not as advanced as the hard-drive-based unit that came thereafter. Visually, the C30 hasn't changed much since, with the most prominent change taking place for 2011 when the grille and headlights were revised and enlarged to resemble other models in the Volvo lineup. Other than lacking Bluetooth audio streaming, a standard security alarm and LED running lights, these later C30s are similar to the current car.

User Reviews:

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  First Small Hatchback Followup - 2008 Volvo C30
  By lgibsonjr - November 10 - 3:43 am

  I purchased my C30 in December and after 9 months I wanted to provide a followup to my first review. Im still impressed with its performance, handling, and overall feel. More than a few times Ive needed the quick acceleration and my C30 has delivered without fail. Almost all my miles are city and zip around with a fairly heavy foot so Ive been getting around 20 mpg. Im sure I could get better if I were more conservative but thats not my style. If I had it to do over again would I buy the Volvo C30? Yes indeed.

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  Awesome - 2008 Volvo C30
  By Anna - October 6 - 2:36 am

  I love this car. It flys on the highway and responds at the low speeds too. I had the sales guy hanging on for dear life while I ran through the gears! The kicker for this car is that it can pull 2000 lbs, so my jet ski will now tour the country with me!

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  Style and Substance - 2013 Volvo C30
  By djd123 - August 15 - 1:46 am

  Have owned for 3 weeks now, and the smiles keep coming. This car is very well put together, looks great, handles well, and has plenty of power on tap when you need it. It is very comfortable as a daily commuter, even with the stiffer R-Design suspension. As other reviews across the web have stated, the steering is a bit numb and the manual shift action a bit rubbery compared to other sport coupes/"hot hatches", but it makes up for it with how well the overall package fits together. This is a car that somehow seems greater than the sum of its parts. Hard to explain.

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  Volvo c30 - 2008 Volvo C30
  By steven - July 22 - 11:16 pm

  Great car to drive. Incredibly safe. Very good engine in it, it was fast, got good mileage, received many comments about the car. One of the best cars I have ever driven. This car can hold alot of things for a hatchback. The car drove like a sports car. This car is worth every penny. Recently crashed mine into a cement truck going over 40mph, walked out of the crash perfectly unharmed. Car held up in the crash. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  Great Driving Experience - 2011 Volvo C30
  By califas - June 6 - 7:42 am

  In evaluating a car, first you define the mission. No car can be all things. If you want a Corvette, you understand that it cant have the gas mileage of a Prius. This is the T5 C30 with 17 in wheels: A small, nimble car with an appealing and distinctive aesthetic that coddles the driver with excellent ride dynamics and great interior design. It is not trying to be a track car. It is 2+2 GT road car. It gets you through your driving day with a minimum of fatigue and a maximum of bliss. It has the quickness and agility to squeeze through traffic, yet still has a cabin that is quiet and comfortable. Plus, it feels like quality, it is nice to look at, and it is just fun to drive.

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  Just Right - 2010 Volvo C30
  By Hondo123 - May 25 - 10:03 am

  We test drove a Mazda 3, Nissan Altima, and Mini Cooper S with the C- 30 as the spoiler. We found the Mini to ride HARD, have severely limited visibility, weird pedal placement, cramped, found the center speedo and other quirks just too annoying, and we know someone who sold theirs because it was too scary in the snow. We found the C-30 to be in a class by itself - a highly refined vehicle for an amazingly reasonable price. Fast, fun, engaging, safe, this purchase ended up being a no-brainer. Only downside is that Volvo dealerships dont appear to be too willing to deal. (Same w/Mini.) A LOT of car for the money. This vehicle is a class leader. See for yourself. Were very happy.

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  A niche, but if you fit, this is the car - 2008 Volvo C30
  By CarDude - April 17 - 5:56 am

  I wanted something fun, but not one of the Racer Boy cars. I have kids, but Im more likely to be alone and take the wifes VW Passat with the family. This car just FIT. Excellent fuel economy, power when you want it, and space to take things. Can even tow or mount stuff on the roof if needed. Interior is very unique. Some buttons take some getting used to, but overall a really nice stylish design. I like the two rear seats as they didnt try to squeeze in 3. Access with manual seats is great. Comfort is good as long as you put the short people in back. Volvo seats just seem to fit really nice for the long haul. Even the carpet in the back doesnt seem to be a dog hair magnet.

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  Exactly what I wanted - 2008 Volvo C30
  By Mr. Morris - April 12 - 6:23 am

  I bought this after looking for 4 months for cars, using price, options, powertrains, looks and several other things. Minus not being AWD, I was able to get everything I wanted nothing I didnt need. I was able to steal mine for 22k after I put 32.5k in options on it. sometimes I hate the way it looks but its a love hate thing(its cause its a hatchback) and I love the drive. no matter how I feel my ride centers me. I have put a lot into since I bought, being 25 I couldnt help but want more power agility and style. Always still even now grabs eyes and the great feeling when someone take a shot of it with their cell phone. find buy love.

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  Get it for what it is: a premium hatch. - 2011 Volvo C30
  By Robert James G - March 10 - 11:20 pm

  Ive read plenty of reviews stating how this car doesnt measure up to the GTI and Cooper S. I disagree. I used to have a 2008 Cooper S, and it spent months at the shop, had to sell it at a loss. Used to have a MazdaSpeed 3 - great car, but uncomfortable on city streets. The Volvo is a car made for the real world - I dont go to tracks every Saturday; this car ROCKS 95% of the time. Its not the last word on performance and handling, but its the best mix of comfort and sporty driving I could find. And the exterior - its just a work of art. I never thought Id own a Volvo, but Im happy I do now!

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  Honda better look out - 2008 Volvo C30
  By Volvo C30PO - January 2 - 4:43 am

  Hello, The C30 is a marvelous little car. Those who currently own a Honda Civic and are interested in moving to the Accord would do good to test drive a C30. I have always preferred smaller cars and traded in my 1997 Civic EX Coupe with 197k on the odometer. Unfortunately Honda hasnt made any youth oriented (and purchased by youth) cars in over 10 years. Instead of waiting for the CRZ I purchased C30 instead. The build quality is far superior to the Honda Civic. You feel very safe as soon as you shut the door. The engine has great torque. You can drive around town in 4th gear from 15-50 mph without a problem. If the price is too high buy a used one and you will not regret it!