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Volvo C30

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Safety first, Mr Volvo

by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent

Three months is a long time in both economics – and in politics.

by Bro McFerran CBE, president of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce...read more

Safety first, for some reason that’s what always springs to mind when I hear the name Volvo. I suppose it’s down to the fact that Volvo has been leading safety technology for years and has been getting its message across very effectively. Volvo has built up a strong customer base of people who want large, reliable, strong and safe cars – and if you live in the country, own a pair of green wellies, and have a few dogs – well you just have to have a Volvo estate.More recently, Volvo has expanded its range of cars which now includes everything from the executive, sporty, and, of course, the famous and, I think, still hard to beat, estate models.The newest kid on the block from the Swedish company is the C30 which I think is probably the smallest of the cars it offers.The C30 I had for a test drive was the 2.0 diesel, 136 BHP engined, C30 R-DESIGN Sport. It comes with a slick changing six-speed gearbox and the car has a muscular look and feel to it. It also has that odd, some would say iconic, shaped rear tailgate.The car I tested had leather sports seats which fitted perfectly, and with both reach and rake adjustment on the steering column, finding a comfortable driving position was a piece of cake.The C30 shares the same chassis and platform as the latest Ford Focus – which is really good as the car handles exceptionally well, although it does feel a little heavier than the Focus. The C30 also shares the same 2.0 diesel engine as the Ford. Over the week I had the car, I found it was economical, using only a gallon of diesel every 46 miles or so, a little lower than the 60 mpg Volvo claims it can manage in perfect conditions.The main feature is inside car with an interesting and unique floating centre console. This very cleverly houses all the heater, audio, heated seat and phone controls. Interestingly, you can put your hand behind this thin console and there is no sign of any wiring. This also creates a more airy feel to the car.The design of the whole car is very attractive and very Swedish, especially on the inside where the attention to detail is extremely noticeable. The use of high grade materials throughout the cabin gives it a solid and quality feel.

The C30 R-DESIGN exterior incorporates an exclusive sports body kit, rear spoiler, R-DESIGN logo on the grille and alloy wheels. Inside, the unique interior is upholstered in off-black T-Tec fabric with contrasting cream leather embossed with the R-DESIGN logo and is complemented by eye-catching blue instrument dials, a leather sports steering wheel, (a bit on the big side), aluminium ridged sports pedals and gear knob with aluminium inserts.The C30 is designed to attract younger buyers into the Volvo family, and the way it drives and looks – and not forgetting that it's laced with every safety feature available – I think it will do well. It offers plenty of room and comfort in the front, but the back seat passenger’s legroom is not what would be described as generous. On the other hand, this is a good looking sports coupe and that diesel engine will take you to 127 mph, hitting 60mph in under 10 seconds while returning outstanding economy.I can tell you this car is definitely a head turner and if you appreciate and enjoy design, as well as a sporty drive, Volvo have it nailed for you!

The official magazine of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce

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