T5 R-Design 2dr Hatchback
2011 Volvo C30

The C30 is a premium compact that competes with the Audi A3 and Volkswagen GTI sporty hatchbacks. A two-door hatchback, the C30 shares most of its mechanicals with the Volvo S40 compact sedan. While similar in character, the C30 has less standard equipment, allowing Volvo to make it its lowest priced car.

The C30 continues to be offered in two models, the C30 T5 and the more upscale T5 R-Design, which comes with leather upholstery. Both come with a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine rated at 227 horsepower and a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic Geartronic with Auto-stick. The C30 uses front-wheel drive.

Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 21/30 mpg City/Highway with the automatic, 21/29 mpg with the manual gearbox.

The 2011 C30 T5 R-Design features a retuned suspension aimed at sharpening chassis dynamics and steering reflexes. Spring stiffness has been increased by 30 percent while the dampers feature a new mono-tube design that build-up pressure quicker for 20 percent increased low-speed damping. Steering is more precise with stiffer bushings and a 10 percent quicker steering ratio.

Youthful and fun to drive, the C30 is Volvo's best handling car. It has good steering feel, stays flat in corners, and is nimble enough to slice through traffic. The turbocharged five-cylinder engine provides plenty of punch to keep the fun coming. Ride quality is generally good, though it can become a little hard with the available 18-inch wheels.

Inside, the C30 offers a pleasant, fairly roomy cabin for four. The standard cloth upholstery is a unique fabric that resembles wetsuit material. Room up front is plentiful, and the controls are easy to spot and use. The two-door body style makes getting into the backseat a bit of a hassle, but the rear seat is comfortable for two passengers. Those rear seats fold down to create a large rear hatch area with lots of carrying capacity.

In addition to the revised The C30 was introduced for the 2007 model year.

Overall, the Volvo C30 is an attractive compact with premium equipment and trim that's practical and fun to drive. The C30 comes with Volvo's safety engineering and is loaded with safety features.
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