Volvo C30 to debut in the US before 2008 model year

Volvo gracefully joins the A3 mania with a worthy competitor hoping to attract younger buyers to its showrooms.

The C30's primary markets will be in Europe, with the largest markets being Italy, the U.K. Germany and Spain. Volvo Cars estimates global sales of the C30 at 65,000 units annually. Pricing and volume expectations for the U.S.-bound C30 have not yet been set.The C30 will represent a new segment entry for Volvo; one that will bring a younger buyer into Volvo retailers. "The Volvo C30 is a very exciting car with emotional appeal. We anticipate that the C30's youthfulness and dynamic design will catch the hearts and minds of people beyond Volvo's traditional customers." commented Anne Bélec, President and CEO of VCNA.

218 horsepower and 8.5-inches shorter than a Volvo S40

Putting 218 horsepower to the front wheels, the new C30 is powered by a turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine that produces 236 pound-feet of torque.
Measuring in at just 167 inches in length, the C30 is the smallest member of Volvo’s model range – an impressive 8.5 inches shorter than the Volvo S40 sport sedan while still retaining the 103.9 inch wheel base, which really pushes the wheels towards the end of the car. “A car that exudes muscular maneuverability must live up to the promise of its looks when you are behind the wheel," said C30 project leader Håkan Abrahamsson. "Therefore, the C30 has a chassis that offers sporty driving characteristics, nimble handling and responsive steering.
Right out of the box, audio enthusiasts will appreciate the Volvo C30's standard 160-watt stereo system. And true audiophiles can choose a Premium Sound system that closely matches the acclaimed system offered in the new C70, with a digital 5x130W ICE Power amplifier from Alpine®, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround, and 10 loudspeakers from Danish loudspeaker manufacturer Dynaudio®. Total output for the Premium Sound System is an astonishing 650 watts. Simply put, it rocks.