The 2013 Volvo C30 is a two-door hatchback available in two trim levels: T5 and T5 R-Design. Both are split into base, Premier, Premier Plus, and Platinum sub-trims. With these models, Volvo attempts to appeal to performance car enthusiasts and those desiring a stylish ride. It appears they have been successful on the latter of these, while falling short on power with underwhelming output. Based on the retired S40 sedan, the C30 remains one of the most stylish compact cars on the market. Even so, Volvo has vowed to discontinue production after this model year. This may be due to its large price tag, which puts it in direct completion with cars that outmatch it from a performance point of view.
New For 2013
Automatic windshield wipers and headlight washers are standard for 2013. A new Premier trim level includes a sunroof, a power driver’s seat with memory, a load cover, and an auto-dimming mirror. Premier Plus gains Keyless Drive and xenon headlights. The limited-edition Polestar bumps the turbo’s output to 250 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Only 250 will be produced.
Exterior
The 2013 Volvo C30 has approximately a 167-inch length, 70-inch width, 57-inch height, 104-inch wheelbase, and 3200 pound curb weight. It has a modern, distinctive design that makes it truly unmistakable wherever it travels. Its curvaceous front fascia is made up of a grille with a chain-link pattern and the Volvo logo in the middle, a pair of large halogen headlights, air intakes with the same look as the grille, and daytime running lights in the lower corners. A side view portrays a short body sitting on 17p or 18-inch wheels. In the rear, there is a glass hatch with a windshield wiper. There is also a spoiler on top. Down below is a chunky, body-colored bumper and dual chrome exhaust tips sticking out from under. Front fog lights and a roof spoiler are optional.10 exterior colors are available: black stone, black sapphire metallic, titanium grey metallic, electric silver metallic, cosmic white metallic, Caspian blue metallic, passion red, ice white, orange flame metallic, and flamenco red metallic.
Interior & Cargo
The interior of the 2013 Volvo C30 gets good ratings in terms of style and comfort. It is built to accommodate four passengers. T-TEC upholstery is standard, which may be upgraded to leather. In front, there are bucket seats that provide ample back support and good adjustability, divided by a console with a storage compartment. In the rear, there is a pair of bucket seats. In terms of comfort, passengers in the front and rear will be content with seating, but rear passengers may be a bit short on legroom. Cargo space is measured at 15.3 cubic feet, which may be expanded to 33.4 cubic feet by folding the rear seats down. In terms of available features, the C30 is definitely not lacking. All models come standard with a high performance sound system, a CD player, and high definition radio. Controls are conveniently placed on the steering wheel to adjust audio settings. Bluetooth connectivity is available, allowing for streaming of audio from Internet Radio onto compatible devices such as smartphones and iPods. A climate package adds heated front seats, electronic climate control, and an Interior Air Quality System (IAQS.)
Safety
The 2013 Volvo C30 received the best rating of good by the insurance Institute for Highway Safety for side-impact, frontal-offset, and roof strength crash tests. Every model has anti-lock brakes on all four wheels, along with electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist. Stability and traction control are present for improved handling. There are dual front side-mounted airbags, side-curtain airbags, and overhead airbags to protect occupants during a rollover or side collision. Driver and passenger seats have a head restraint whiplash protection system. Rear seats have child seat anchors that allow car seats to be carried more securely. Front and rear seatbelts have pretensioners that automatically tighten to help restrain passengers in the event of an accident. Additional safety features include tire pressure monitoring, an engine immobilizer, and a remote anti-theft alarm system.
Driving Experience
Every single 2013 Volvo C30 comes packed with a turbocharged, 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that pumps out 227-horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed, manual transmission that comes paired with front-wheel drive is standard. A five-speed, automatic transmission is optional. Whichever transmission is used, zero to 60 mph is accomplished in less than seven seconds, which is around average for a compact hatchback. Estimated fuel economy is 21/29 mpg city/highway driving and 24 mpg combined.
The C30 is a fun car to drive. Due to its independent strut front suspension teamed with a multi-link rear setup, it provides gentle ride. The smoothness is especially apparent on R-Design models, which are built with a sport-tuned suspension. On the highway, it cruises over smooth surfaces nicely, while handling road imperfections on country roads handily. Steering is accurate, allowing for precise moves in traffic and makes difficult parking maneuvers a cinch. In brake testing, stops were made from 60 mph in 130 feet, which is a tad below average performance.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Volvo C30
- Audi A3
- Mini Cooper S
- Volkswagen GTI