It seems as if the C70 isn't the only two-door Volvo receiving a makeover for 2010. Designers also revamped the 2011 C30 hatchback, which debuts at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show.
The new front fascia, patterned after those used on the S60 concept and the new 2010 C70, is arguably the largest departure from the outgoing model. Although the new corporate snout is attractive on the C70, it seems to work much better on the C30 -- the compact hatchback finally receives a front fascia that is as dramatic as its posterior. A new accessory styling kit adds aluminum accents to the fog lamp surrounds, side skirts, and front and rear fascias.
Inside, the C30's interior is largely carryover from the previous model, but Volvo has reportedly refined the cabin's materials, along with increasing the possibility of personalization. While the last car was available with 15 different upholstery options, the new C30 offers 27 different choices, including a new "Espresso/Blonde" scheme with body-colored seat inserts. We've not heard if some of these choices will remain part of Volvo's Custom Build program, or if they, along with all 13 paint colors, will be standard production options.
We won't, however, have an option when it comes to powertrain. Although a host of gasoline and diesel engines are offered in Europe, North American models are equipped only with the 227-hp, 2.5-liter turbocharged I-5. As had previously been the case, a six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a five-speed automatic is available at extra cost. A "sport chassis" option remains available, but Volvo claims the package is nearly 30 percent stiffer than before.
Volvo won't discuss pricing, but we'd expect the new C30 to sticker approximately where the previous model did, at roughly $24,000. Expect to see the first examples roll into North American showrooms by the end of next year.