Used Volvo C30 Hatchback 2007-2013 review
The Volvo C30 mixes coupé and small hatchback elements, failing to truly succeed in either field but proving a intriguing compromise
- Used Volvo C30 2007-2013 front driving
- Used Volvo C30 2007-2013 rear driving
- Used Volvo C30 2007-2013 interior
What's the used Volvo C30 like?
A coupé might turn some heads, but for a lot of people, they're not versatile enough to work as an everyday vehicle. However, when the Volvo C30 arrived back in 2007, it aimed to change the status quo by draping some stylish coupé design elements over a small hatchback shape.
It may not have been a commercial or critical smash hit, but there's plenty of quirky goodness to like about it.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Good build quality
- Efficient diesels
Cons
- Not a lot of space
- A Ford Fiesta is more fun to drive
- Relatively sparse availability on used market
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Engines & Performance: The C30 was built front-wheel drive only, but it can be found in manual or automatic form. There's also a decent range of engines to choose from. On the more sensible end, you have a modest, fuel efficient 1.6-litre diesel, while the sillier end features a 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol – the same one used in the Ford Focus ST of the time.
Ride & Handling: The driving experience is good by small hatchback standards, with decent body control and composure. It can't touch the Ford Fiesta for agility or fun, though, nor can it match a BMW 1 Series Coupé for balance or driver engagement.
The ride is a little firm and that goes mostly for R-Design cars. In other words, there are cushier cars out there – the Skoda Fabia, for instance.
Interior & Practicality: Next to many small coupés, the C30 is a fairly practical machine. However, against the usual small car suspects (your Fiestas and Fabias), it's very limited. The C30 isn't available as a five-door model, the rear seats (of which there are just two) aren't especially spacious and the boot is small.
On the plus side, the interior feels sturdy and the driving position is comfortable.
Trims & Equipment: All models are well equipped, with the entry-level S trim getting climate control, alloy wheels and electric windows, while SE trim adds cruise control, better-quality upholstery and steering wheel-mounted stereo controls. SE Lux models have leather upholstery and heated front seats, while the R-Design versions get sporty trim options.
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Tips & Advice
Ownership cost
What used Volvo C30 will I get for my budget?
Used Volvo C30 prices currently range from around £2000 to around £9000, depending on the age, mileage, trim and engine in question.
Check the value of a used C30 with What Car? Valuations
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Our recommendations
Which used Volvo C30 should I buy?
Despite nine engines being on offer, only a few are worth serious consideration.
The 99bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine is acceptable, but can never be classed as fast, while the 123bhp 1.8-litre and a 143bhp 2.0-litre are swifter, but not exactly sporty. The turbocharged 2.5-litre petrol engine is full of character (hence it was also used in the Ford Focus ST), but is costly to run.
The majority of used C30s are diesels, and the 108bhp 1.6 is refined and punchy. A frugal DRIVe version was introduced 2008, and this was improved with the addition of an engine stop-start system. There's also a 134bhp 2.0-litre diesel and a 178bhp 2.4-litre.
All models are generously equipped, and the entry-level S trim gets climate control, alloy wheels and electric windows, while SE trim adds cruise control, better-quality upholstery and steering wheel-mounted stereo controls. SE Lux models have leather upholstery and heated front seats, while the R-Design versions get sporty trim options.
A comprehensive face-lift at the end of 2009 brought the C30 in line with newer members of the Volvo family.
Tips & Advice
Alternatives
What alternatives should I consider to a used Volvo C30?
Small hatchback rivals include the fun-to-drive Ford Fiesta, while coupé rivals include the also-fun-to-drive BMW 1 Series Coupé.
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