Popular in Europe for perfectly logical reasons, hatchbacks have never really caught on in this country. Nonetheless, Volvo has decided to go where no manufacturer has really hit it big before by introducing the C30 hatchback for 2008 in the United States. The model is not entirely new; it shares a great deal with the S40 and V50 sedans and wagons, already in the Volvo lineup.
Two versions are offered: 1.0 and 2.0. The models sound like computer software issues to me, but on the showroom floor, the 1.0 is the base model, the 2.0 is the top-of-the-line offering.
Both use a 227-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. For this review, Volvo loaned us a C30 hatchback, version 1.0, with the six-speed manual gearbox. A five-speed automatic is a $1,250 option.
Regardless of the model selected, every C30 offers standard anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability enhancement, front air bags, side front air bags and a side curtain air bag.
All models also feature standard air conditioning with amazingly logical, if small, pushbutton controls for air direction, power windows, power mirrors and power remote control locks. Volvo also includes a CD-playing audio system in the base $22,700 price. Shipping and destination charges add $745 to that sum. Our review car was devoid of options, bringing its sticker price to an estimated $23,445.
Placing a basic version of the C30 in the press fleet demonstrates just how livable the entry level model is. Many manufacturers hand out only fully loaded versions of their cars and trucks to the press, hoping that we automotive scribes will never notice just how bleak the least costly model of the vehicle happens to be. Here, the basic version turns out to be very nice without adding a single option.
That is good news in a way, for Volvo has come up with a “Custom Build” charge that must be paid before many C30 options can be selected. Buyers can add a sunroof, a climate package with heated front seats, leather upholstery and the automatic transmission without paying a $300 fee that opens the door to other options. However, if you want an upgraded stereo, the sport suspension, cruise control, rear obstacle detection system, the blind spot information system, a navigation system or any of more than a dozen other options, you pay the $300 just to be able to buy more. So, if you want a $100 trip computer and only this option, the price will be $400.
This little idiosyncrasy aside, the Volvo C30 hatchback coupe, even in base form, turned out to be an amazingly pleasing and enjoyable package. The engine is smooth, refined and spirited, with nary a hint of turbo lag nor any of the five-cylinder “blat” that has marred some other vehicles with this engine configuration. Acceleration with just a jab of the gas pedal is smooth, fluid and ample for all situations.
The six speed manual transmission turns out to be an easy-shifting delight with an informative, low effort linkage and a light, linear clutch. In our sprint to 60 miles per hour, it was necessary to be judicious when first starting out, lest the front tires spin and invoke traction control. This done, it took 7.3 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour from a stop, which is definitely a lively performance, if not quite the best in class. Braking from 60 miles per hour took 135 feet, which is on the longer side of average. Control and brake pedal feel were excellent.
The ride is compliant and nicely controlled. The 2.0 version features a sport suspension and larger, 18-inch lower profile tires, so my comments may not apply to this model. In the base version, however, sharp pavement breaks are handled with competence and riding comfort is enhanced by a tight, solid body structure.
Handling in the Volvo C30 is good, though the power steering errs on the side of too much boost and a not quite enough road feel for my tastes. Still, the car handles sweeping turns with authority, changes direction willingly and tracks beautifully. Pressed through a slalom, the front-wheel drive C30 understeers, to no one’s surprise.
Inside, the front seats are roomy and comfortable, a finding enhanced, no doubt, by the absence of the optional sunroof on our review car. The seats are nicely cushioned and supportive, though one larger rider who is far from the classic Orson Wells physique, said he felt pinched by the side bolstering. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes, further extending the range of drivers that can be comfortably accommodated. One minor complaint: The shoulder belt uses Volvo’s passive height adjustment system and it may exert some uncomfortable downward pressure on taller drivers or front seat passengers.
The backseat is for children, yet even above average adults fit. At six-feet, two-inches, I found head room just adequate and enough leg room to tolerate a short jaunt with the front seats all the way back. Entry is challenging, with the need to move the shoulder portion of the seatbelt out of the way a necessary step before entering or leaving.
The cargo area is small and items stored there are on display through the frameless rear glass hatch. The rear seats are split and fold, expanding cargo capacity, though the backs do not form a flat load floor when folded. Interior storage is also tight. At least the glove box, which is deeper than it is wide or high, holds the owner’s manual. That is not the case in all cars today.
The interior is nicely designed and finished. Soft touch materials adorn the instrument panel but not the top of the door panels. The fabric upholstery is unique in its look and feel.
Regular fuel is recommended and with it, I managed 22.2 miles per gallon in a week of use that included some spirited driving. EPA ratings using the new, more stringent 2008 standards are 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 on the highway with the manual transmission; 19 and 27 with the automatic.
At just over $23,000, the Volvo C30 strikes me as being a bargain for its pleasant personality, rewarding performance and ample room for two. Go crazy with options, however, and you could quickly change the C30 into a $30,000 hatchback. At this price point, I would be less enthusiastic. Still, Volvo’s willingness to supply a basic, 1.0 version of the C30 hatchback with its sub-$24,000 list price, demonstrates that even without options, this is one car worthy of serious consideration. It may, in fact, be the version most worthy of serious review.
