First Look : 2008 Volvo C30

The new Volvo C30 is the smallest and most expressive car in Volvo's model range. With a compact and solid body, sporty chassis, and powerful engines, it offers a very dynamic driving experience. The interior, which is functionally designed with a number of smart refinements, offers an unexpectedly high level of comfort and flexibility, not least in the rear seat. And like all of the other Volvo models, the C30 has been developed to be a very safe car.

Thanks to its small size and well thought out design, the Volvo C30 is very nimble to handle, even in limited space. Otherwise, it is built according to the same principles as other Volvo cars. A compact and solid body, a generous track width, and a relatively long wheelbase contribute to giving it inspiring and stable driving characteristics. The chassis, with MacPherson front wheel suspension and a Multilink rear axle, is optimized to enhance fun to drive. High level of body control and precise response are key properties. A lowered sport chassis is available as an option.

DSTC, Dynamic Stability and Traction Control, is standard in most markets. Steering is electro-hydraulic, with a distinct and controlled steering feel. The range of options for the Volvo C30 includes a number of alloy wheels in sizes from 15 to 18 inches.

When it arrives in the Middle East region, the Volvo C30 will have a 220 hp five-cylinder T5 Turbo petrol engine. The T5 engine has a four-valve technology and double overhead camshafts, which contribute to the quick response and good high-speed characteristics. The engine is turbo charged, and has very high and even torque from low to high engine speeds (320 Nm from 1500 to 4800 rpm). This makes the Volvo C30 very responsive, with willing acceleration.

Despite its compact format, the Volvo C30 is capable of offering very comfortable and flexible interior space with a surprising big-car feel. The car offers place for four adults. The front seats are ergonomically designed and offer a correct and relaxing seating position. It is easy to move the seat forward and rearward, for convenient access to the rear seat. The tapered design of the B-pillar also contributes to the easy entrance.

The rear seat has two separate seats and a foldable armrest is available for enhanced comfort. The seats are positioned somewhat towards the centre of the car to provide space and a good forward view. This also provides space for storage in the side panels. Furthermore the centred position of the rear seats facilitates communication with the front seat occupants. The rear seat backrests are individually foldable. Folding can be easily done when standing behind the car as well as from the passenger compartment.

The glass tailgate is very convenient and easy to open and close. It offers good access to the cargo compartment. To keep items in the cargo compartment from view, two load covers are available: a soft and a hard version.

There are three audio system levels to choose from. On the two highest levels, High Performance and Premium Sound, it is possible to play CDs with music in MP3 and WMA formats. This means that the CD changer can store hundreds of music tracks. In addition, the High Performance and Premium Sound systems are fitted with an extra AUX connector for connecting auxiliary equipment such as a portable MP3 player. Starting in the spring of 2007, an adapter for connecting an iPod or a USB flash drive will also be available as an accessory.

In addition to the predictable driving characteristics, an unobstructed view is very important to preventive safety. The Volvo C30's special design, with the side windows at the right height, creates a panoramic view from all seats. The inwardly curving rear side windows and the unique glass tailgate provide a very good rear view, not least at an angle rearward. The tapered B-pillars also contribute, which offer a clear view between the side of the body and the head restraint. This also gives the rear seat passengers a good view through the front side windows.

To make it easier for the driver to detect other vehicles in the blind spot at the side of the car, the Volvo C30 can be fitted with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System). This system, which is an option, uses cameras mounted in the side door mirrors to register if another vehicle is in the blind spot. If this is the case, a lamp near the mirror illuminates to alert the driver in order to increase the possibility that correct decisions are taken.

To help reduce the risk of the driver being distracted by untimely information in critical situations, IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System) is standard on the Volvo C30. IDIS is an electronic information system that continuously monitors certain functions in the car such as steering wheel movements, accelerator pedal movement, the direction indicator controls, and braking.

For safety, the front's structure is divided into zones that are constructed of different grades of steel with different deformation characteristics, to distribute and absorb collision forces in a controlled and effective manner. Dual-stage airbags, safety belt tensioners in all four seating positions, force limiters on the front belts, and collapsible pedals help protect the occupants of the car in a frontal collision. SIPS (Side Impact Protection System), side impact airbags, and IC (Inflatable curtains) contribute to effective protection in side impacts. WHIPS (Volvo's Whiplash Protection System) is standard on the front seats, and contributes to reducing the risk of neck injuries. The gently rounded front and the deep spoiler are designed to reduce the risk of injury to pedestrians and cyclists.