There was a time when you knew distinctively that you were looking at a Volvo. It used to be the sharp lines and squared off looks that let you know a Volvo had emerged from the production line. That is no longer the case, the 2010 Volvo C30 is full of smooth curves and rounded off edges. The more modern and sophisticated look gives this car the edge on all other small cars of its type. However, Volvo haven’t done much in the way of changes to the latest C30, there have been no significant improvements as far as performance goes. The interior and exterior has had a make-over, but is this enough to make the Volvo C30 worth buying? The T5 turbocharged inline with five cylinders engine should make this car a reasonably decent ride. Unfortunately, you would expect a lot more from the 227 bhp engine, and the drive proves not to be as much fun as you thought. The C30 is available with a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox. Opting for the manual does offer more excitement than the automatic, especially since the vehicle does 0-60 in 6.2 seconds with this option. The estimated 160 mph, is just that, an estimate, at best the Volvo puts out 149 mph. This vehicle doesn’t like to get pushed too far, driving the Volvo hard results in body roll and understeer that you just don’t want. Although the C30 has low profile tires and a sports suspension, at times you can still feel vibrations through the cabin from bumpy roads. As always Volvo has built the car with safety in mind, there are many safety features on the C30. Blind Spot Information System and rear parking assist are optional choices for the 2010 model. While other safety aspects include, seatbelt pretensioners for all four seats, side and front airbags, dynamic stability traction control, and even a whiplash protection system. Volvo have done it again with a whole list of other items that are aimed at keeping the driver safe. There are mixed reviews in regards to the interior, some say that it’s not trendy enough to appeal to the younger market. One problem seems to be the fact that the front seats do not return to their pre-set position, after moving them to give access to passengers who wish to sit in the rear of the vehicle. The space for people traveling in the back seems to be somewhat compromised, but that is an issue with the majority of small cars. The controls are of a simplistic nature, they are solid and seem to be of good quality. The 2010 Volvo C30 seems to be better to look at than it is to drive, it’s up to you whether you want to pay the $22, 562 for the standard model, or not. Category:Home › Home • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 2 • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 1 • Should the crew of the Sea Shepherd board whaling ships? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 13 • Grandparents: Can blogging chronicle your genealogy? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 12 • Are teachers unions the cause of public school problems today? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 11
