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2007 Volvo C30 2.4i Road Test

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Justin Pritchard
Volvo has always been about playing it safe. They're built like bunkers and pack more safety features than the average fighter jet, and most will agree they've never been about turning heads nearly as much as they've been about protecting them. The no-risk visual execution has been done away with in their entry-level model, the C30- and when you see one, the badge may surprise you.

With it's looks, the C30 stands out from the crowd.

A look all its own

It's not what you'd call a gorgeous machine, but one that deserves its attention solely for the sake of how off-the-wall it looks. Designed by a French-Canadian, the front is typical Volvo- with a distinctive European face set off by low-browed headlights. From this angle, it's scandalous and sexy. The side has a clean, lean and active look that's not broken up by excessive sculpting and lines.

Then, there's the rear-end.

It's a caboose that starts many debates and conversations wherever it goes. Some love it and appreciate its funky, different style, while others use words like hideous, asking "why?" with their lips curled up. Personally, I think it looks like the love child of a Honda CRX and R2D2 from Star wars. Or an escape-pod from Volvo's larger S80 sedan. It's different, and it's got some serious gawk-worthiness. That's more than many cars starting under $28,000 can say.

Safe and secure transportation for four
Volvo has chosen to make it a four seater- so there's adequate room for four, instead of not enough for five. The rear seats sit inwards slightly from the front perches, allowing rear passengers a good view. Backseat access is reasonably easy if you're reasonably small, and once in, most folks will be snug though not uncomfortable.

They'll be safe too- with standard front and curtain airbags, a "Side Impact Protection System", whiplash reducing seats, and standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) which keeps the C30 on its best behavior.

Materials and quality are top notch. The design isn't as passionate as some other European or Japanese brands, though the neat and tidy look satisfies. Instruments are easy to read, the dashboard is un-cluttered with trim-lines, and even the steering wheel is simple and concise, not overwhelmed with buttons. The entire thing is set off by an interesting waterfall console which is flanked by seats made of a material called T-Tec. Think of the stuff they make scuba-suits from and you're in the right ballpark.

At Volvo, safety is always a priority and that is why the C30 has been equipped with 6 airbags.
Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert
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