The 2010 Volvo C30 is compelling evidence that Ford's stewardship of Volvo has been beneficial to the small Swedish automaker. Ford wisely left the styling to Volvo, yielding a unique-looking two-door hatch that's half S40 sedan, half classic Volvo hatchback and all Swedish chic on the inside.
The 2010 Volvo C30 is a four-seat, two-door hatchback offered in two trim levels. The base T5 includes 17-inch alloy wheels, height-adjustable seats, a trip computer, cruise control, a 50/50-split-folding rear seat, 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. The T5 R-Design trim level adds 18-inch wheels, foglights, a sport-tuned suspension, sporty exterior trim, partial leather upholstery, blue-face gauges and metallic interior trim.
The Climate package includes heated front seats, headlamp washers, automatic climate control and rain-sensing wipers. The front-wheel-drive 2010 Volvo C30 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-5 that produces 227 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.
The 2010 Volvo C30 comes standard with antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front seats with whiplash protection. Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is optional.
The 2010 Volvo C30 possesses plenty of grip and accurate steering. The turbocharged five-cylinder matches up well to either the six-speed manual transmission or the five-speed auto
There, in a nutshell, lies the kernel of truth behind Volvo’s C30 R-Design.
To be a player, Volvo needed something a little different and, viewed from the rear, the C30 certainly nails that design parameter. And while the base model might look somewhat strange, the R-Design model, with its fully-painted body kit and rear wing is surprisingly appealing. Our test model was nicely outfitted with both the $900 Climate Package that includes things like heated seats and electronic climate control, as well as the $1,950 Preferred Package with power front seats, keyless drive, dual xenon headlights, aluminum trim and fog lights.
Definitely try the rear seats before buying one. It comes with the elimination of body length so we’re not faulting Volvo.
The blue-face R-Design gauges are a sporty touch.
Volvo rates the C30 at 6.5 seconds to 60 mph.
Volvo rates the car at an official 19/28 mpg.
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