Volvo C30 | Reasons to Choose the New Volvo C30 (3)

Volvo C30 | The New Volvo C30

Reasons to Choose the New Volvo C30 (3)

A specialty coupe is a personal, somewhat sporty vehicle. European and American car manufacturers have a distinct advantage here. Volvo, the premium car maker from Sweden, also crafts an appealing two-door C30. Volvo Car Japan will launch a new C30 with updated styling and engine lineup on February 20, 2010.

Text by Fumio OgawaPhotos by Junki Kono

Abundant Power—The C30 T5 R-DESIGN

From the moment you grip the steering wheel and lightly touch the accelerator, the T5 R-DESIGN conveys a sporty impression. While not as hardcore as an Italian sports car, the engine, which delivers a substantial 35.6kgm of torque from as low as 1500rpm, provides a powerful surge of acceleration when you press down. The engine particularly comes alive with the turbo kicking in around 2500rpm, and if you consciously use the revs above that, you can experience an abundance of power for its 1.4-ton body.

The suspension is certainly sporty, but it doesn't feel overly stiff. The handling is precise; while not as sharp as an Audi, it shares a secure and mature feel, similar to Volkswagen's sport models. Mid-range acceleration is also brisk, making it a model that driving enthusiasts will actively enjoy. The tires are 18-inch with a 215/45 low-profile, which surely contributes to the sporty handling.

A Worthy Rival to the Volkswagen Scirocco

For those who appreciate its design and primarily use the front seats, the Volkswagen Scirocco now presents a new option. In terms of the T5 R-DESIGN, its price point, just ¥30,000 more than the 150ps 1.4-liter turbo TSI (¥3.93 million), and ¥680,000 less than the 211ps 2.0-liter Scirocco 2.0 TSI (¥4.57 million), becomes a significant advantage. While comparing horsepower figures alone is not entirely meaningful, the T5 R-DESIGN boasts 230ps, offering performance comparable to the Scirocco 2.0 TSI's 2.0-liter turbo. Furthermore, the richness of interior variations is a major appeal of Volvo.

With this model, Volvo Car Japan is launching a unique advertising campaign: "There are things more important than Volvo in life. That's why you choose Volvo." For the C30, it becomes: "Because you value design that expresses yourself and enjoy a lifestyle that is uniquely yours. That's why you choose the new Volvo C30." What do you think?