2009-2010 Volvo C30 FWD 2.4L

Overview

The Volvo C30 represents a distinct chapter in the brand’s history, serving as a premium compact hatchback that prioritized design and safety. Introduced to the North American market for the 2008 model year, the C30 was heavily influenced by the Volvo Safety Concept Car and the classic P1800 ES, most notably through its signature glass tailgate. Built on the Ford C1 platform, which it shared with the S40 sedan and V50 wagon, the C30 was engineered to provide a more agile and youthful driving experience than the larger vehicles in the Volvo lineup.

The 2009-2010 model years featured the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-five engine, a powerplant known for its characteristic exhaust note and smooth power delivery. Positioned as a lifestyle vehicle, the C30 targeted buyers who desired the safety and build quality associated with Volvo but sought a more compact, urban-friendly footprint. Production took place in Ghent, Belgium, where the vehicle was assembled alongside its platform siblings. While the C30 was eventually discontinued in 2013, it remains recognized for its unconventional aesthetic and its role in diversifying the Volvo brand identity during the late 2000s.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	C30 FWD
Model Year	2009-2010
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	2.4i
Body Style	3-door Hatchback
Vehicle Segment	C-Segment
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Ford C1
Assembly Plant	Ghent, Belgium
Country of Origin	Belgium
Production Start	2006
Production End	2013
VIN Identifier	–
Base MSRP	$24,100
Destination Charge	$850
Total MSRP	$24,950
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name	B5244S4
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-5
Displacement	2.4 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-port Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.1 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	168 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque	170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	4.00:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	20
EPA Highway MPG	28
EPA Combined MPG	23
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	10.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	15.9
Estimated Driving Range	365 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,100
CO₂ Emissions	385 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	3.1 s
0-60 mph	7.8 s
0-100 mph	21.5 s
Quarter Mile	16.1 s
Top Speed	135 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.84 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	17.8 lbs/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	167.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	70.2
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	57.0
Wheelbase (in)	103.9
Front Track (in)	60.7
Rear Track (in)	60.8
Ground Clearance (in)	5.3
Curb Weight (lbs)	2990
GVWR (lbs)	4010
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1020
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	81.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	12.9
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	27.4
Turning Circle	34.8 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	–
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	8-speaker High Performance
Speaker Count	8
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / unlimited
Roadside Assistance	4 years / unlimited
Complimentary Maintenance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Skövde, Sweden
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	7.4 qts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volvo C30 is widely regarded in the used car market as a stylish, safe, and relatively reliable entry-level luxury hatchback. Its 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine is known for longevity if maintained with regular oil changes and timing belt service intervals, which are critical for this specific engine family. Prospective buyers should inspect the vehicle for common issues such as premature suspension bushing wear, potential sunroof drain clogs leading to interior moisture, and the functionality of the complex door latch mechanisms. While the cargo space is limited due to the unique glass tailgate design, the C30 remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value its distinct Scandinavian aesthetic and solid road manners, offering a characterful alternative to more common compact hatchbacks of the era.