Volvo C30

What is the Volvo C30?

The Volvo C30 is a compact, sporty two-door hatchback with four individual seats. It sat at the smaller end of Volvo’s range, offering a distinctive alternative to the brand’s larger cars. Its broad glass tailgate, framed by tall rear lights, gives the car a distinctive rear and makes the tailgate part of its design.

Volvo sold the C30 in Europe and the UK from 2007 to 2013, and in the United States and Canada from 2008 to 2013. It had one generation, known by the internal codes P1 and 533. The production car’s glass tailgate also recalled the design of Volvo’s P1800 ES estate.

Engines and power

The C30 was offered with petrol and diesel engines, as well as flex-fuel E85 versions in some markets. The European Union range also included electric and other fuel types. European engines ran from 1.6 to 2.5 litres, with power from 74 kW (101 PS) to 169 kW (230 PS). The UK range covered the same engine-size span; its listed power figure is 125 kW (170 PS).

With four separate seats and a compact body, the C30 suited drivers who wanted a smaller car with a distinctive design.

Fuel consumption and emissions

In the UK, the lowest listed consumption is 3.6 L/100 km on the NEDC test. France’s ADEME figures for 2012 also give a lowest value of 3.6 L/100 km on NEDC.

For the United States, the EPA’s best combined rating is 24 MPG, or 9.8 L/100 km. Canada’s lowest listed figure is 9.9 L/100 km on NRCan’s 5-cycle test. These figures use different procedures: NEDC in Europe, EPA testing in the United States and the 5-cycle test in Canada.

Where was the Volvo C30 sold?

The C30 was sold in Europe, the UK, the United States and Canada. European Union registrations span 2010–2014 and total 98,256; the most registered listed configuration was a 1.6-litre diesel in 2010. US and Canadian versions used petrol engines from 2.4 to 2.5 litres, while European markets had a wider mix of fuels.