The C30 is Volvo's first hatchback vehicle since the 480 of the 1980s, which followed the P1800 ES of the 1970s. The C30 was first introduced for the 2007 model year, following the successful unveiling of a concept by the same name in early 2006.

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The hatchback is the latest Volvo to be built on the company's P1 platform, which also underpins the S40, V50, and C70. It competes against the BMW 1-Series, Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Mini Cooper.

The C30 shares many interior elements with the S40 and V50. However, its rear passenger area is distinctly different -- offering two foldable bucket seats rather than a three-seat bench in the back.

The C30 is offered with only one engine in the U.S. market -- Volvo's popular T5 inline-five turbocharged motor deliver 227 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 236 pound-feet of torque, available from 1500 rpm to 5000 rpm. Buyers can chose between a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

The Volvo C30 is equipped with basically the same safety systems and chassis characteristics as the Volvo S40 and V50. Examples include the crash safety structure and suspension system. The C30 also comes with familiar Volvo safety features, such as side-impact protection (SIPS) and WHIPS (which helps to reduce the risk of whiplash injury in a rear-end collision). The car can also be equipped with Bi-Xenon headlamps.

The Volvo C30 also offers a number of systems for greater personal security, such as Keyless Drive (which enables the car to be started without a key).

Available for the 2008 model year is a newly developed R-design kit. This package features a number of options and design details giving the car a sportier look. These items include: satin matt-finish grille, color-coordinated bumpers, lower side mouldings, rear spoiler, five-spoke aluminum wheels, R-design badging, contrasting stitching, a leather-trim steering wheel with R-design logo, unique instrument cluster, aluminum pedals, gear selector with aluminium inlay, tufted dark sport floor mats, and embossed R-design logo on backrests.