Volvo C30 unveiled in Paris

(Photo: Volvo)

It might be the smallest car in Volvo's portfolio, but the new C30 does some very big things. Size doesn't matter in this market nearly as much as features, excitement, performance and value. The C30 goes above and beyond in all of these measures, as well as being exceptionally safe, too.

Håkan Abrahamsson, The C30 Project Director says "Even the smallest Volvo should provide the right premium feel, in all respects. This applies not only to the appearance and the impression of quality, but to how it is to drive and use. The Volvo C30 should attract people who love driving."

How?

(Photo: Volvo)

Electro hydraulic steering directs the optional 18 inch wheels attached to a MacPherson strut suspension up front and multi-link suspension in the back. The end result is very nimble handling and a controlled steering feel.

What's under the hood is important too. Volvo is offering C30 buyers two transverse-mounted five-cylinder engines. The first is a 2.4 litre with 168 horsepower while the T5 model adds a turbocharger, a small boost in displacement and bumps power up to nearly 220. Manual or automatic transmissions are available in each.

All of this choice is important to today's younger buyer, and it doesn't stop with powertrain options. Owners can customize their C30 with various interior elements including a choice between two high-end stereo systems.

Unveiled Thursday in Paris, the C30 will arrive at dealers in February. Pricing details are not yet available.