Volvo to Build Golf-Rivaling Hatchback

Like the European Ford Focus Mk.II, Mazda3, and Volvo's own S40/V50, the C30 will use Ford's C1 architecture, including the

Expect the production-ready C30 to make its debut at next year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Photo: Volvo Canada)

highly-responsive suspension and sharp electric power steering system. As for power, the lineup is expected to start with a 1.8-litre 125-hp I-4, moving to a 2.4-litre 170-hp turbocharged I-5, topping out with a 220-hp 'T5' performance model. A variety of manual and automatic gearboxes will be available.

As Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz prepare their compact executive cars for sale in North America for the 2006-2007 model year, it's very likely that Volvo will participate in this rapidly growing segment. Expect the production-ready version to make its debut at next year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Last year, Volvo sold 460,000 vehicles around the globe and the C30 will be instrumental in reaching the Company's goals of selling more than 600,000 units by 2007.