Volvo's most imaginative car in years, the C30 gives buyers seeking an upmarket compact hatchback a viable alternative to the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. It's just a shame that it's so cramped in the back.
The C30's design is meant to combine the virtues of hatchback and coupe - and it certainly looks sleek and sporty thanks to the narrow windows and tightly sculpted back end. It's an idea that Volvo tried before in the 1980s 480 Coupe. The C30 is a vastly better car, but the back end bears an unmistakable resemblance to that of its unmourned predecessor.
Inside the cabin feels very Volvo, sharing trim and switchgear with the S40 and V50 that the C30 is based on. That means the clever "floating" central control panel and an excellent driving position. The downside is limited space for rear seat occupants, with access to the back feeling very awkward. No five door option will be available, but the boot is a reasonable enough size by segment standards.
It drives well, too, sharing the well-mannered driving dynamics of the S40 and V50. Slightly vague-feeling steering limits all-out confidence, but grip levels are high and the C30 stays predictable as the limits approach. Ride quality is quite firm though, which creates some choppy motion on rougher road surfaces.
C30 buyers certainly won't be short of engine choice, with 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 litre four-cylinder motors, a 2.4 litre five-cylinder and a turbocharged 2.5 litre "T5" at the top of the range. The basic engines lack much in the way of urge, but the five-pots are fast. Three diesels are also available, although the most powerful "D5" is loud and crude.