Volvo C30 DRIVe 2011 review

We turn the spotlight on automotive's newest and brightest stars. But ultimately, would we buy it with our own hard earned?

What is it?

This is Volvo's mainstream ultra economy car, not hybrid, not electric, not fuel cell or anything whacky - just smart engineering and technology designed to cut fuel use without compromising feel and performance. It's based on the cute three-door C30.

How much?

Priced at $36,990, DRIVe was upgraded recently with an extra cog in the gearbox - now six manual, park assist, quality audio and Bluetooth audio and phone among other goodies.

What are the competitors?

Lexus CT200h, Golf Bluemotion though it's larger, Honda Insight, Ford Fiesta ECOnetic perhaps

What's under the bonnet?

Runs a 1.6-litre, twin cam, turbodiesel delivering a useful 84kW/270Nm output. Has six-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels complete with auto stop/start for city driving fuel savings.

How does it go?

Really well, much better than expected though off the line seems torque restricted. Slip it into second and away she goes. That 270Nm is good to surf out on the freeway where the DRIVe can show a clean pair of rear tyres to plenty of other vehicles. Ride and handling have a sporty edge.

Is it economical?

Incredible. We saw better than the claimed 3.9-litres/100km on a steady highway run. Our average turned out to be 4.1-litres/100km which means a potential range of 1260km on one 52-litre tank.

Is it `Green?'

Yes, gets a 3.5 star rating

Is it safe?

Yes gets a five star rating.

Is it comfortable?

Very, offers well shaped seats and relatively quiet interior with plenty of kit for the money though there are numerous options. What you get standard is all you really need as it includes a decent audio, climate control, remote lock, auto dim rear view mirror, good trip computer and steering wheel controls.

What's it like to drive?

Enjoyed the experience because we weren't expecting it to be as competent, even the stop/start is easy to use once you get used to it. That little engine has plenty of kick despite being optimised for economy which usually dulls an engine right down.

Is it value for money?

Shapes up pretty well against a wide range of cars built around a similar philosophy if not engineering. The Ford Fiesta Ecoetic is a clear winner on price but the C30 is a better drive and has more prestige value. Would you really want a Prius or Insight...

Would we buy one?

Absolutely. We hate going to the servo and the DRIVe offers more than just fuel efficiency even if it does have naff alloys.

Volvo C30 DRIVe

Engine: Diesel, 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged, dohc; with stop-start
Power: 80kW @ 4000rpm.
Torque: 250Nm @ 1750rpm.
Transmission: Five-speed manual; front-wheel-drive.
Fuel consumption: 3.8 litres/100km.
CO2 emissions: 99g/km.
Dimensions: 4266mm long, 1782mm wide.