2008 Volvo C30 S review
June 11, 2008 by Karl Peskett
It’d be nice to think that there’ll be a few C30’s running around because at least they’re non-conformist and far from bland. Even so, as unique a looker as it is, the base model, (S), feels a little out of place in the C30 lineup. The D5 has the torque and the T5 has the headkicking power and handling.
But in this car, the 2.4 engine just isn’t inspiring enough, and the interior lacks ambience. The C30 S, therefore feels a little underwhelming. It’s not a bad car, just not a great one.
There’s that whole style versus substance argument again…
CarAdvice Overall Rating: 
How does it Drive:
How does it Look:
How does it Go:
Specifications:
- Engine: 2435cc 5-cylinder petrol
- Power: 125kW
- Torque: 230Nm
- Transmission: Five-speed Geartronic Automatic
- Top Speed: 215km/h
- 0-100km/h: 8.8 seconds
- 0-400m: N/A
- Fuel Consumption: 9.0 litres / 100km (Combined)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 62 litres
- Fuel Type: 91RON Unleaded
- ANCAP Rating: Five Star
- Safety: TCS; Front, Side & Curtain Airbags
- Turning Circle: 10.6 metres
- Weight: 1437kg (Tare)
- Wheels: 16-inch
Love the c30, my favourite hot hatch. would def go the T5 tho
Love the styling of this thing. The base model was always a puzzling item. The diesel has pull and the T5 has grunt, the base model is the definite orphan.
One thing I have never liked is the textured black plastic trim. Always seems to fade to gray.
Wrong engine in this one…def need CRD or the T5.
Of course it’s the worst engine of them, it’s the cheapest and the only naturally aspirated one
Not really a fan of the rear, myself.
I saw the T5 reviewed on Fifth Gear today. They said it was quite good. The guy that reviewed it said that this car proves centre consoles can be practical and not boring, and that its a premium drive not a sporty one. So its not really in the hot hatch segment having little less power than the Focus XR5, which shares the same engine.
hmm.. quite a heavy car for its size, no wonder it sips 9.0L/100km.. not bad but still.. can’t quite figure out why Volvos are always so heavy.
How can you say the interior is bland. Take a look at Volvos from 3+ years back then you will appreciate the ultimate in bland – or better yet a SAAB.
I own a red S40 with this 2.4 five pot, and the engine is great. It has more power and torque than any rival (base engines in the Audi A3/A4 or BMW 120i or 320i), and the extra cylinder makes the difference. 125KW is huge for a ‘base’ powerplant. It’s far from the ‘poverty’ engine it’s portrayed as here.
also it’s a……………….bland Volvo.