Outstanding economy and low emissions from Volvo C30 (From Hereford Times)

Outstanding economy and low emissions from Volvo C30

7:00am Saturday 17th December 2011 in Road Tests

VOLVO has made huge strides in improving fuel consumption and lowering CO2 levels and has extended the latest state-of-the-art technology measures across its range.

The C30 sports coupe with its 1.6- litre turbo diesel engine was among the first economy DRIVe variants and the model has come in for further improvements to boast a combined fuel figure of 74.3mpg and a CO2 emissions level of 99 which means free road tax.

Volvo’s green achievements have not come through any single breakthrough but by applying small adaptations to the vehicles, such as low rolling resistance tyres, low viscosity transmission oil, greater drag reduction and longer gear ratios.

The latest C30 DRIVe cars now have a six-speed manual gearbox and a start/stop system that automatically switches off the engine when the car is at standstill, saving on fuel and emissions.

There is a regenerative battery charge facility and even a changeup gear indicator on the dash as an extra incentive to save fuel and cash.

The good news is that the long list of economy features doesn’t seem to dilute either the performance or the excellent driving experience of the 113bhp car.

But while the three-door C30 is tops for economy and low emissions, it remains a four-seater only and because of its sporty coupe styling has a smaller and less practical boot than a normal hatch which may not suit some families. But cargo space can by increased by folding the rear seats.

Although the car’s sloping rear lines do restrict space they are very stylish and add to the good looks of the car. Actually, the styling is reminiscent of Roger Moore’s “Saint” Volvo, the P1800, which had a lot of television admirers during the 1970s.

The C30 is also comfortable and quiet to drive. It’s perfectly suitable around town being able to nip in and out of the traffic with ease and during long journeys it is relaxing to drive.

The addition of a sixth gear ratio has undoubtedly improved motorway refinement and with the lowered suspension to cut aerodynamic drag, there is good road holding characteristics and composure though corners for the press-on driver.

The road-hugging C30 is very agile at all paces with accurate, communicative power steering.

As one might expect from Volvo, there are many safety features and these include dynamic stability and traction control, ABS with electronic brake force distribution, a whiplash seat protection system and side impact protection airbags. In fact, the C30 passed Euro NCAP crash tests with flying colours, obtaining a leading fivestar score.

The large doors make for easy access into a classy and modern interior made more appealing with aluminium-coloured detailing.

The lay-out is fairly straightforward and the quality of fittings throughout is top bracket. The cars are well equipped for modern needs and fitted with a particularly good quality audio system.

There are three DRIVe variants with prices from £13,495 to £21,245.

The C30 range itself starts at £14,995 for the 2.0-litre ES.

The DRIVe SE Lux version is a cracking car and the one to have if your budget will run to it. The wealth of kit includes a leather interior, keyless entry, rear parking sensors, park assist, electric folding door mirrors and a Blis system which warns the driver when a vehicle is overtaking.

AT-A-GLANCE

Volvo C30 hatchback 1.6-litre turbo-diesel DRIVe, six-speed manual SE Lux.

Price: £21,245 (on the road).

Top speed: 118mph.

0-60mph: 10.9 seconds.

Fuel: 74.3mpg.

C02 emissions (g/km): 99.

Verdict: Outstanding economy and low emissions, distinctive shape, safe, rides and performs well, quality build, classy interior, limited boot space.