Volvo C30 Expert Reviews

One area where the C30 scores well is in the safety department. Twin front and side airbags are standard across the range, as is Volvo's own flavour of dynamic stability control. It might not be a powerful car but the Drive variant's torquey diesel can still provoke wheelspin in the wet.

A little known fact is that Ford's Focus forms the basis of the C30, which makes it a great car to drive. In eco-minded Drive form, the little Volvo shares the same enthusiasm for the road as the other C30s. Ride quality and dynamics are impressive, while the 1.6-litre diesel engine is refined, smooth and willing in all circumstances.

There's no reason why the C30 can't be a suitable car for the first timer. It's an easy car to drive and, the flagship performance model aside, is unlikely to prove too powerful. Only the modest rear visibility could tax a novice when parking, making those parking sensors a worthwhile investment.

Volvo's traditional safety conscious image remains intact with the C30. It's a car that maintains the firm's solid track record, and is something many buyers still hold dear about the brand. Quality is a non issue here - the car is well built and feels like it will last a lifetime.