Around The Web
Controls in the 2011 Volvo C30 are refreshingly straightforward.
Edmunds »
monochromatic LCD display for stereo information
CNET »
Ticking boxes for the handful of other options—special paint, a blind-spot warning system, and an upgraded stereo with a nav system—pushes the price past $36,000. Zoinks.
Car and Driver »
FEATURES | 9 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Controls in the 2011 Volvo C30 are refreshingly straightforward.
Edmunds
monochromatic LCD display for stereo information
CNET
Ticking boxes for the handful of other options—special paint, a blind-spot warning system, and an upgraded stereo with a nav system—pushes the price past $36,000. Zoinks.
Car and Driver
Part of what separates the C30 from other hot-hatch models is that there's no skimping on features; Volvo packs it with a great set of standard features, and adding one of several option packages will get you a luxury-vehicle level of equipment or, with the R-Design, an even more sophisticated, upscale look. Over the past several model years, Volvo has been adding many more options to the C30 without substantially raising the price, and it feels like there's bit more value for the money than when it was first introduced, with the base, well-equipped car costing about $25k. Be careful, though, as the R-Design can top out out toward $35k.
The highlight of the lineup, at least visually, remains the style-centric R-Design model, which includes different front and rear aerodynamic work; a sport suspension; Pirelli performance tires; special 'Midir' wheel design; xenon HID headlamps with Active Bending Light; and a hard-drive-based nav system with live traffic.
The base sound system is quite good, with 160 watts and HD Radio compatibility, but the high-end Dynaudio system is better than you'll find in any other small hatchback. Satellite radio remains a standalone option.
A trip computer, cruise control, and a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface are all currently included on the base C30 T5, in addition to things like power windows, air conditioning, and a tilt/telescopic steering wheel.
Other options on the C30 lineup include a moonroof, leather upholstery, a climate package, and a preferred package with rain-sensor wipers and headlight washers.
Conclusion
The 2011 Volvo C30 comes better equipped than any other hot hatch, and it's a good value at the base level.