The Good
The 2011 Volvo C30 boasts a peppy turbocharged engine offering engaging performance. Its comfortable front seats and stylish design appeal emotionally. Practically, it provides decent fuel efficiency and Volvo's reputation for safety. While not the most spacious, its unique hatchback configuration offers versatility. A solid value for those seeking a distinctive and reliable compact.
The Bad
The 2011 Volvo C30's rear seats are cramped, limiting passenger comfort. Parts can be more expensive than those for mainstream brands. Some owners have reported electrical issues. Also, the limited cargo space might not suit everyone. Watch for oil leaks and ensure proper maintenance records are available before purchasing.
2011 Volvo C30: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5
- Horsepower: 227 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 21 mpg
- Highway: 29 mpg
- Combined: 24 mpg (estimated)
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or specified by Volvo for the C30.
- Trim-Level Features:
- T5:
- Standard features included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, and a premium sound system.
- Upholstery: Cloth seats standard, leather optional.
- T5 R-Design:
- Sport-tuned suspension.
- Unique exterior styling elements, including a body kit and rear spoiler.
- R-Design interior with unique seats, steering wheel, and trim.
- Alloy wheels (unique design).
- Optional Features (across trims):
- Leather upholstery.
- Power driver's seat.
- Sunroof.
- Heated front seats.
- Navigation system.
- SiriusXM satellite radio.
- Upgraded sound systems.
- T5:
2011 Volvo C30 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | C30 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Sweden |
| Manufacturing City | GENT PLANT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1456.48 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 144.78 cm |
| Overall Length | 425.2 cm |
| Overall Width | 178.31 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 263.91 cm |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L L-5 DOHC 20V Turbo |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $26,950 USD |
| Invoice Price | $25,333 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $875 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 Volvo C30 Have?
Recalls for the 2011 Volvo C30 are relatively infrequent, but it's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. These could include issues with fuel pumps or airbag systems.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the aging rubber components, such as hoses and seals, leading to potential leaks. The suspension components, especially the struts and bushings, may require replacement over time. Maintaining proper fluid changes (oil, transmission, coolant) is crucial to preventing more serious problems. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of a 2011 Volvo C30. Also, issues with the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system can lead to oil consumption, so this should be inspected.
How long will the 2011 Volvo C30 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety was a strong point, with standard features like front, side, and curtain airbags. Optional features like blind-spot monitoring were not available on this model. The 2011 Volvo C30 performed well in crash tests. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it "Good" ratings in most categories. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings varied, but generally reflected good overall crashworthiness.
The infotainment system is quite basic compared to contemporary offerings. Don't expect features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, the standard sound system was generally well-regarded for its time. Safety features were robust for its era, focusing on occupant protection in the event of a collision. Upgrading the sound system or adding navigation were the primary tech-related options.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2011 Volvo C30 Prices and Market Value
2011 Volvo C30 Cost of Ownership
2011 Volvo C30 Fuel Efficiency
2011 Volvo C30 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2011 Volvo C30 Recalls & Defects
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
2011 Volvo C30 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2011 Volvo C30 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Volvo C30 Compare to Other Hatchback?
In terms of reliability, the C30 is generally considered reliable, but parts and repairs can be more expensive than for the GTI or Mini Cooper. Features were comparable, though the C30's infotainment system was less advanced than the A3's, even for its time. Price-wise, the C30 was generally competitive.
Alternatives to the C30 include the Volkswagen GTI, which offers better performance and practicality. The Audi A3 provides a more luxurious experience. The Mazda3 is a more affordable and reliable option, albeit less distinctive. If performance and handling are priorities, the GTI is a better choice. If luxury is paramount, the A3 is preferable. For budget-conscious buyers, the Mazda3 is a solid alternative. The C30 stands out for its unique style, but it may not be the best choice in terms of overall value or practicality.
Ranks #17 Hatchback
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (1.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (4.0★) |
| 9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
| 17 | 2011 Volvo C30 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Volvo C30 a Good Hatchback?
CoachL on March 27, 2021
Great small car for a big guyI bought my 2011 C30 almost 6 years ago (2015). It has been everything I had hoped for, and then some. This is my second Volvo. (My second car, back in the day, was a 1964 Volvo 122S.) While the C30 is a "compact" car, the Swedes designed the interior with more than enough room for my 6' 3" frame. I love taking the car out on the winding roads through the coastal hills and letting it rip. My C30 has been extremely reliable, and problem-free. As a 10 year-old car, its styling more than holds up over time. I still get compliments from strangers, many who can't believe it's a Volvo. I expect to own this car for many years to come. After years of owning larger vehicles while we raised our family, this C30 has been an absolute joy to own and drive.
RoBehr on September 6, 2020
BEST of all my sporty cars..Love my C30 R-Design so much I turned a one day old Cayman back in because it just felt better.. Last month I decided to keep it over the new XC40. Of all my 18 new sports cars purchased over 40 years, this is the one car I like overall the best! 5 cylinder with turbo is good combo along with auto trans that I use in manual mode alot. I wouldn't let it go for less than $15K even at the 93K mark.
Historical-Blue on March 11, 2020
Best car I have ever owned, and I have had a few!Nice styling, very smooth engine, quite peppy, holds a lot for a hot hatch...I can even put 2 car seats in the back for the grandchildren. I would buy another similar Volvo coupe but they offer nothing in this segment and I like standard transmissions.
Trystan O. on October 27, 2019
This is the first newer car I've ever boughtI've driven little 4 cylinder compact cars like my mother owns before, I've also driven old trucks and a few SUV's, but this is probably my favorite car I've ever driven besides my buddies M Series BMW, It's comfortable and surprisingly large on the inside, I'm 6'2" and my girlfriend is 5'8" and we both have the drivers seat settings saved to where it's more than comfortable for either of us to drive. the small size makes the car a breeze to park and has a good turning radius. Also with 225-ish HP you can get up and go very quickly, the only problem I have is that the automatic transmission can be kind of lazy when you slam on the gas at first, after it downshifts it's perfectly fine though.
SeeMyC30 on August 3, 2019
Super stylish and problem-free! LOVEI bought my 2011 off lease in 2014 from Volvo. In the years since, I've not had a single day of trouble with it. That dependability means EVERYTHING to me. When the battery started to fail after five years, Volvo's Safe and Secure warranty covered it for FREE. They would even replace brake pads and rotors at no cost under that warranty. Seriously.(Alas, their warranties are no longer as generous.) The car is stylish and so fun to drive. I got a six-speed manual with a turbo and it is peppy!! I just hit 76,000 miles and it has never let me down. I'm sad that Volvo is no longer making them for the U.S. market.
BioBran on June 24, 2019
I love this carThis car is really fun to drive. It has more space than you would think, especially when you lay the back seats down. I always got compliments on the car, inside and out. I would recommend this car to anyone who wants a fun, sporty hatchback.
FastCars on June 14, 2019
New to Volvo, but very happy I made the choice.Short term, I have found only an adults comfortable, very easy to use and fun to drive car. Some small repairs, a few lights bulbs were out, but it appears to be a solid well made car.
spurs24 on February 15, 2019
great car!this car is very fun and is great in terms of space and how much it can store in the hatchback. Its pretty fast and good on gas.
Jho on October 18, 2018
Not your everyday vehicleGreat little ride that most will be hard to recognize. Sporty, super stylish, great interior, bold lines, and ya gotta love the mpg coming from those five angry little Vikings.
RobertC52 on August 26, 2018
Good looking car but expensive to maintain.I love how it handles and its looks, but, I have owned this car for 2 years , it had 70,000 mile when I bought it and since then, it has cost me thousands in repairs. Finally, the car became useless, when mice got into the timing belt compartment and dropped junk inside . Consequently, the timing belt malfunctioned and it ruined the valves- it left my engine useless. Volvo designers put a lot of attention to the exterior looks of the car, but when it came to designing parts to protect the engine, in my opinion, they failed.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.