The Volvo C30 Is a Gentleman's Hot Hatch, That Bites! | 2013 Volvo C30 R Design Manual Review 

I’m 62 and have owned many cars, new and used, over my 45 year driving career. I bought a Volvo c30 (made Dec. 2006) for $5,000 CAD during Covid. I’m very happy with the car- iI’ve had to put money into it, front end stuff, suspension and new a.c. Components but I’m always pleasantly surprised with the cars dependability, smooth ride and stylish good looks.

This car has always given me the right feels. One of these days....

Hey, I'm a single guy living in the D.C. area. I guess I have to get one of these now.

I liked my first 2013 C30 so much that, when some moron in a GMC pickup T-boned me and totaled my baby in 2020, I searched for another 2013 C30 to buy, and I found one and bought it!

New Volvos are beautiful, but I think the ones from this era are the best drivers. You could ger a V8 in the S80 and XC90, the same C30 engine and manual in the S40 and V50 wagon, and the cars with the 300/325 hp 3.0 T6 were rockets. Being built like tanks doesn’t hurt their case either. Classy without being ostentatious. Thanks for the well done and funny review!

These T5's are really hard to find here in the UK at the moment, and when you do, they aren't cheap compared to a Focus ST MK2 which has the same engine. However, these C30's are just so uniquely good looking.

I have a 2011 C30 6MT which I got as my first car, and I love it. If you can find one, I'd highly recommend checking it out. So far it's been extremely reliable after about 2 years of owning it. Just beware of the horrible MPG - I get around 18/19 when driving normally in town, and in the low-mid 20s on the highway. Other than that, it's a very solid car. Perfect combo with the 5 cylinder and the manual!

I've been driving a 2011 C30 for many years now and I can honestly say that it has been by far my favorite car at 57 years of age.

Thanks to you Elliott, I was on my way to sell my 2012 C30 (regular one and automatic transmission.....so what!) and you made me change my mind. Some 150000 km later ( hey, I am Canadian!) and a perfect road trip to California in 2019, I think that this car deserves to stay in my parking space, along with my S60 2016. Thanks my new friend!

I have a D2 version of this car since it is expensive to drive T5 in Europe. After a great engine remap, I trully fell in love with this car. The fuel economy is absolutley mind blowing. I went to a road trip around the entire Estonian border and averaged arround 3.5l/100 km (68MPG). I literally spent only 25 Euros to buy enough fuel for the entire road trip! The fuel gauge was not moving for 2 straight hours! Despite being so economical, there is still lots and lots of torque. (310 Nm after a remap). It pulls from 0-62mph under 9 seconds. Unfortunately the engine becomes lackluster after 120Km/h, but speed limits doesn't allow you to drive faster anyway. Regarding the blindspots - that is a problem with this car. While the left mirror provides enough rear vision, the right one does not, no matter how you regulate that mirror... I have had a few sketchy moments in a traffic because of that. This is the reason why top models have BLIS function. Another thing is the version you buy. The non - R design models offer softer suspension, but worse turning radius. The R design is very rough on bumpy roads, but has greater turning radius. Basically R-desigh is strictly a city/highway car.

What an awesome car review. This is perfect, focusing on the driving experience (clutch feel, cornering, etc) and not getting distracted by all the gadgets (who cares?) Also a nice reference to the "appropriate" demographics for the car, ha ha. Great review! Keep going!

Rear fog lights is very nice to have in low visibility conditions (snowstorm/thick fog). They reduce the danger of being rear ended by traffic coming up behind you quite a lot actually...

No joke, I just graduated from GW university, I've always been into quirky cars, and I'm planning on staying in DC for the foreseeable future. This is exactly the car I need for DC's relatively narrow streets and restrictive parking while still having a high fun factor.

Just bought an 08 c30 t5 2.0 with 180k on it for 5k and it drives freaking amazing. I have a feeling with basic maintenance and upkeep this thing will go for a while.

If you’ve gotten your hands on the manual version it’s a completely different car. Such a rewarding car to drive.

Part of c30 club here, had from new in 2009 If I remember correctly Volvo was in twilight movies because character drove an old P1800 in the original bookings

Drove mine 2,200 miles from Alabama to Arizona in comfort.

Agreed on all points. I just scored my first C30 and the thing is such a blast. Definitely a more "adult" hot hatch than some of the competition. Also, after test driving used Minis, GTIs of similar vintage, and owning an Audi A4, the Volvo has clearly held up WAY better. Far superior build quality hands down.

I had a C30 R beat me in a drag race when I was in a 2008 impala SS. These things are so underrated, great review!

The C30 is not a Focus RS with a different body. The C30 is a Focus ST with a different body. The RS of that generation had 300bhp, not 230, using a lower compression ratio and a K16 turbocharger instead of a K04. However, the main difference is in handling. The RS had a completely different suspension setup in the front end called Revoknuckle. They weren’t the first to do it, but it’s a very trick suspension setup that essentially brings the wheel’s pivot point for steering in line with the hub face, which eliminates torque steer and improves handling. It also had bigger brakes, (obviously) much stiffer suspension rates and a Quaife limited slip differential. However the C30 being equivalent to an ST is still not a bad thing. They’re not a hardcore track focused hot hatch like a Megane RS but they are pretty well judged for comfort in the real world and whilst not feeling sporty, they have the actual pace you’d expect (although the stock brakes are poor). They’re best thought of as a mini GT, a comfortable 2+2 which is comfortable, but also capable.

Not gonna lie, I thought I was looking at a Daddy Doug video with a hint of a twilight fan lol without any quirks and features lol. But always love this Volvo!

I had a 2009 R-design C30. I had it going 129 and still pulling on the freeway up near Boise, Idaho. There are some very inexpensive mods that can perk up the great, strong mill; check with IPD who is the motorsports supplier for Volvo cars. Thanks for your review.

I had two of these over the years, your comparison with the Mini is on point. I should say the AC wasn't up to the challenge of California summers.

If you own , or buy , a Volvo with the 5 cyl engine & auto gearbox, make sure the gearbox oil is changed every 50k - 60k miles. The white block 5 cyl runs hot, and close to the breakdown temp of the box oil. I changed my friends gearbox oil at 70k and it looked like old engine oil , and smelled burnt. The valve bodies in the Asin Warner gearbox tend to clog up with deposits from the burnt oil, this leads to harsh gear shifts, and eventually gearbox failure.

I own a 2012 Volvo C70 T5 polestar with 250 hp from factory I did a couple modifications gaining an extra 100hp and I love it

You finally joined the C30 crowd, fast little car, good 2 or 3 person car, not 4

You have a face and voice for regular TV not just YT. Also like your charisma and how you don't take yourself too seriously (and are secure in your masculinity 😍). Keep it up, I'm sure you'll go far!

I have an se lux and the seats are definitely suitable for any long trip

I love my c30 so much. Gotta open the exhaust and hear that 5 cylinder purr!!

I have one and I love it !!!!

This probably my new dream first car, I’m still 13 tho so if I’ll get one it will have to wait. Great video btw!

I now watched this video 3 times because guess what, I have a red C30 T5 R-Design. I love it and drive it all the time. My 2014 XC70 doesn't make me smile while driving like the C30 does.

As a Volvo it does in-climate weather just fine in the State of Washington. Rain, Snow and, for icy roads (Even though doesn't have AWD like my S80) throw on a set of studded tires and sticks to the road like a fly to fly paper.

One of my friends in high school drove one of these. I don’t think hers was an R though and I’m pretty sure it was an automatic. But it was a cool car. My old Saab had rear fog lights as well just like this car

You just admitted that you like Twighlight on the internet... 😏

I currently have a 2013 Volvo C30 Polestar #48 of 250 in a manual . One of the most fun cars Volvo has made to date in my humble opinion. Volvo did a terrible job of marketing this car .

Just purchased one of these 3 weeks ago, doesn’t have the BLIS or the heated seats, but everything else. Goes like cat with it’s tail on fire. Manufacturers specs say 0-100kph in 6.5 seconds, yep does that! This is a car with much mumbo

BLIS is awesome . No more problems trying to see what's around you with the mirrors. Wouldn't own a Volvo without it now. Rear fog lights are to prevent you getting run over from the back in heavy fog. Very useful in Europe but not that needed stateside. I think the Twilight reference doesn't do anything for the C30's image.

I love the sound of Volvo 5 cyl engines

"spin control off" is for wheels spinning, to fully disable traction control in this car you have to disable the yaw sensor under the seat. Even with spin control off if the car detects a vehicle spin it'll try to correct it. no sliding in the snow :(

I own the c30 from 2008 (the 130ps 2.0 TD) bought it for 5000€ 4 years ago and never regret it. But time goes by and now the car is way over 200.000 km so it’s time for a new one... I might get the new S60. First Volvo build in US and since 2019 now also available in Germany 🙂 hope you guys done your job right 😉

Looking at one today and have never driven any Volvo of any type,.. but this is probably a good start ☺️

Great review 👍 Ive had my red 2007 C30 for 11 years and love it as much today as I did the day I bought it. In a very non-American European way mines is the 2.0 Turbo Diesel, meaning whilst being rapid enough, it does average 50mpg! For me, its the sculptural looks that make me love it most, which have always made it standout from the A3 and Golf 😀

Twilight made me want a Volvo

5:25 what do you mean by rear fog light don’t make sense to Americans? Come up here to the northwest, experience our never ending winter rain. And then you will know how much easier and safer if more cars have rear fog lights. I suppose that’s why Edward got a C30 X-D

The rear end is not new, its based on the Volvo 480.....

Yes actually I do live in the dc area in Crystal City which is literally right outside DC and I agree it is a practical car for DC. I do love those cars with a manual transmission but I gotta admit it is a pain to shift in traffic, especially in DC. But the car itself would be perfect

You can't turn off traction control in the C30. The DSTC/ spin control is the stability management that steps in to apply brakes to a rear wheel to prevent oversteer. Not so much fun in the snow when using the handbrake.

Awesome! I have the D3 - 5 cylinder diesel remapped to 200bhp and 450nm! love it! (just which the interior was abit more modern)

I have a 2013 R Design manual trans with the Polestar Tune (250hp vs 227). There were only 1350 or so C30's brought to USA in 2013.

It is also an homage to the Volvo P1800ES.

The back is an homage to the P1800 ES.

Great video. I own a 2012 C30 T5. It has been a great car. Lots of power and fun to drive. High quality interior. I have gone on long road trips and it is comfortable and feels like a bigger car on the highway.

I'm a sucker for any car with a *'tuxedo' interior.*

Mommy has one (it is her 3rd)..she has a 2012 6sp. manual polestar tuned version. Not the best BIG dog car, but a beautiful ride. It's the platinum version w. cream leather interior. Has some weird extra features, like the rear "fog" lights. The c30 is a refined vehicle, yet cool.

They are Really Good....I have one for 4 years....1.6 Diesel,109CV..........Is Economic and drives smooth.......190 kms Mspeed..Perfetc car

I always try to watch your videos. I’m shocked you’ve got as many subs as you do.

Those seats are so comfortable on a long trip.

Lol, I did spend 8 hours in the back seat VA to CT. In my own car (which is the commute I bought it for). Secondly, I'm always surprised to see what options are missing in the "well-optioned" examples. No Dynaudio, no NAV, no rear/center armrest. R-design package is just about useless to anyone who can replace shocks and struts. I don't think the strut brace is stock... wonder if there's a nice rear swaybar under there...

Love my 08 c30. This here is an awesome example of one.

I've driven the standard one and it's fun.

I love it! Really cool and uncommon/unconventional design and rear end...

Currently looking at buying one...

The rear hatch is an homage to the p1800es, an odd 2door station wagon sports car.

Website says the car is sold! Dang, you are GOOD!

This guy is funny. Subscribed !

Wow, this car’s perfect for me

Have an 08 here, love it. When you do some exhaust work to open it up it sound amazing. Also rear swaybar upgrade and oem rear lowering springs make a MASSIVE difference. And good lord, most c30 owners hate twilight for having the car in it 😂

I think what really killed these cars was every option, as I recall, was a la carte. And they were pretty expensive to boot. Not a good combination. They sure were cool though!

Amazing car it was also featured in a game called real racing 2 with the gti

Beautiful Volvo, Elliott! I believe that the engine is Transversely mounted.

Great video, cool Twilight car

This video makes me miss my Volvo

#TEAMEDWARD !! It really is a 🔥 hatch!

Bro ... I've always liked this car I just found a 09 white one with 120k mi, clean title (which is very rare to find in south texas) for 6k. I plan on using it as my daily driver, do you think it's a good idea?

I've a C30 R design 2.0 petrol. My son has a Volvo 480 Turbo which is what the C30 is modelled on.

Cool vid. The rear glass is a nod to the 1800ES. I tried to get my son interested in a C30, but he wanted an Acura instead. For me, right now the choice is between a MINI Paceman S and a C30 with the AWD conversion, I've always been a Volvo fan, so that is the way that I am leaning.

Just sold my 2012 s60 t5 due to trans issues and now looking for a c30 or v50 😊

Car is missing the rdesign badge on the grille. Also, the styling is evocative of the P1800 wagon with similar large glass hatch. Maybe do more research? Lastly, Edward didn’t have an rdesign.

You are definitely right about the rear view

The U.S. version is very different from the European one. The back seats didn't have a gap but only sat 2 - an arn rest came down the middle. No "bliss" button. Mine was only a 1.6 so only a 5 speed gear box, the hand brake was over more to passenger side. Can't tell the difference from the outside though - mine did have black/silver alloys, it's my all time favourite car I've owned! The seats are just luxury man. It drives beautifuly and on the motor way it just flys! Also it's a Volvo so it seemed 'exclusive' with everyone driving Audi's or VW's etc.. It really is a tragedy they stopped makin them..

Howdy neighbor, just subscribed to the channel!🎉 You just sold me on the C30 T5 R-Design, I completely forgot about these, I’d take this over a fiesta ST or an Audi TT. Just my style. Now I just gotta find one and dodge inflation. 😅

Shoutout from TAT Express out of Hutchins, TX

I'm from Columbia Maryland..35miles from DC!(100% in agreement)...i have been in the market for this car in Polestar Blue for ever...

You know Elliott, if you had taken TC and Neil for a test drive in this review.... it would have been the cats pyjamas! Great review though :)

The only things that keeps me from getting one is the shape of the tail lights

The C30 is a modern take on the 1800es.

I am a single gal living in dc. Love my 2012 c30. No blis unfortunately. Only problem with DC is the potholes and even manhole covers... since the car sits so low, you feel even the slightest bump to a great degree. This car is great for highways

Its based on focus St

Love mine. Great review!

Boooo for ‘Twilight’! I swear that show single handedly killed the C30 rep.

If it weren’t for twilight I probably wouldn’t know this car exists

My XC90 has the same easily accessible BLIS button. It tends to malfunction in the rain - it thinks raindrops are cars in my blind spot, I guess? It's kind of distracting so I do sometimes turn off the feature when it's raining.

Perfect spec this one with the midirs

Nice video and everything, but not a single word about the car hifi system, how is it? Ty.

Lol I just bought a C30 almost identical to this, the last owner… a DC resident

0:25 "Horizontally mounted"...? Don't you mean "transversely"?

how come rear fog lights doesn't make sense in US?? they are perfect for anywhere with fog, more useful even than front fog lights I think

Love that Encom shirt

Hey Elliot, I’m sure a lot of your RU-vid buddies get this all the time as well but has anybody ever tried to convince EuroAsian Bob to start a RU-vid channel?