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The C30 uses the same 1.6 diesel engine as both the V50 and S40. This has been modified to increase fuel efficiency with official combined cycle figures of 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions of 115g/km. These impressive figures are achieved due to clever new features such as a refined new gearbox and a battery self charge function that automatically charges the battery when the brakes are applied. As noted below the aerodynamic package has also been given an overhaul which really does improve the performance.

Several changes have been made to this model to improve the overall handling. These changes include enhancements made to improve aerodynamics with flat under body panels, new rear bumper and spoiler, partially closed front grill, libra alloy wheels and the suspension has also been lowered by 10mm. The changes made deliver a ride which is quite firm but never really feels too harsh. The car delivers 64.2 mpg and CO2 emissions are 115g/km. This car was never going to be a hot hatch but the performance does not disappoint especially on the motorway. The only niggle is that the pick up from low revs can feel slightly lethargic.

The build quality is excellent and the car has a chunky and solid feel throughout. Once inside the cabin it is clear to see that the interior has been finished with quality materials. The most notable of these is the striking centre console or floating console as it is known which is given a carbon fibre look. As for reliability you are sure to get the same excellent reliability as with all Volvo’s and there are no known common faults with existing versions of the C30.

Volvo’s reputation for safety is always a major selling point and the C30 is crammed with safety features. These include BLIS (Blind Spot Warning System) which detects and warns of vehicles in either blind spot, SIPS (Side Impact Protection System), Follow me home headlights and DSTC (Dynamic Stability & Traction Control). Braking is taken care of courtesy of ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) and EBA (Electronic Brake Assistance).

Space in the front cabin is plentiful and it really does feel more spacious that it looks from the outside. Unfortunately this is not replicated for the backseat passenger with both legroom and elbow movement limited. The car will accommodate 4 adults but as noted for anyone over 6 feet tall the movement in the rear will be restricted. Setting legroom aside all 4 seats are very comfortable and supportive. Boot space is average but this car is not aimed at the family market, more the young couple attracted for the first time to the Volvo Marque.

Across the C30 range residuals have held up extremely well and this economical model will no doubt improve on this. At the outset the mandate was to appeal to a new market and the C30 seems to have done this by attracting a younger audience. The beauty about this is that this has been done without alienating their current marketplace. With all the work that has gone into this package and the savings to be made on fuel etc it would be easy to think that this model would cost a hefty premium. Not so the 1.6D Drive only costs an extra £250 more than the current 1.6 litre model.

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The Volvo team have put a lot of effort into evolving the C30 into an economically efficient machine. The car has been optimised within four areas including reduced air resistance, lower rolling resistance, higher gear ratios and a more efficient driveline. Underbody panels have been added for more efficient airflow under the car, Chassis height reduced, wind deflectors in front of the front wheels to steer airflow, aerodynamically optimised unique Libra alloy wheels. All in which have a positive impact to the performance of the vehicle and the environment.

Surprisingly enough, although you are driving a Sports Coupe that has been tweaked to increase the average mpg to 64.2 and reduced CO2 emissions to 115g/km, it still has a sporty feel. Even driving at speeds of 80mph on the motorway, the rev counter stayed surprisingly low below 3000rpm and the car still has a substantial amount of torque. Overall quite a firm drive which you expect from a Sports Coupe.

Volvo are renowned to have a good reliability record and the C30 model has had great reviews since being introduced to the market and with the new and improved DRIVe model, quality is an understatement. With the additions to the car mentioned earlier, Volvo’s engineers have certainly achieved an environmentally reliable vehicle.

Has all the usual safety features you expect including six airbags and active anti-whiplash front head restraints. The car also has technology included called “BLIS” which means Blind Spot Info System. It is a camera-based system to detect the presence of vehicles in either rear blind spot. Once a vehicle occupies your blind spot position a light flashes on the A-Pillar. This is a very reliable feature but a quick glance over your shoulder is still recommended to be totally assured.

Comfortable in the front and back of the vehicle although boot space is minimal making this car not very practical for your average family although if you are in the market for a Sports Coupe than this isn’t usually an issue. The Volvo S40 DRIVe is also available which is more suited to a family driver.

This car will definitely give you value for money as Volvo usually have a good reputation when it comes to residual value and they are built to last as well. The C30 is a good example of that making this a quality car. The DRIVe range will save you money on fuel bills, I promise you that. As a long distance driver 5 times a week, I definitely noticed the difference on the fuel counter and will certainly consider a Volvo DRIVe for my next car.

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