Volvo C30 Vs. Volvo C40: Price & Specs Comparison
Looking to the past can sometimes give a glimpse of the future, and when you compare the Volvo C30 vs. Volvo C40, that's as evident as ever. While these two vehicles couldn't be more different under the hood, there are plenty of shared aspects between them. The naming scheme is one thing; the essence of their development is another. But look deeper, and you'll find that their premium nature and innovative style make them closer relatives than you may think.
While the Volvo C40 leads the way for a new generation of pure-electric models, the Volvo C30 played a vital role. The attractive 2023 Volvo models owe several developments to this now-discontinued hatchback. So how do they compare? Let's find out.
Volvo C30 vs. Volvo C40: At a Glance
If you haven't heard of the Volvo C40 Recharge, we'll get you up to speed:
This futuristic SUV builds on the innovations brought to life by the pure-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge. Her looks place her directly into the future, with coupe-like styling that can't be mistaken for anything else on the road. The technology used strikes a similar proposition. Stunning headlights crafted from an array of "Pixel" LEDs thoughtfully avoid other drivers' eyes and intelligently light the road ahead.
Leather-free upholstery is another first, and with advanced connectivity integrated seamlessly, the Volvo C40 Recharge is a tech powerhouse that stands out.
That begs the question: What is the Volvo C30?
Recent fans may not know, but this hatchback offered a similar cutting-edge proposition back in 2008. She was discontinued in 2013, but before that, her sleek looks and unique frameless rear hatch stood out as a design well ahead of the times — just like the new Volvo C40. She built on the luxurious, innovative Volvo S40 sedan (sadly discontinued), but the real magic came from a special edition.
She wasn't just any special edition, as the Volvo C30 became a testbed for the future. That testbed was known as the Volvo C30 DRIVe Electric, with only 250 units produced for customers in Asia and Europe. Her all-electric innovations were stepping stones for the brand's electrification ambitions, and those ambitions are now playing out in real-time.
Without the Volvo C30, our eco-friendly new Volvo specials may not have been this special.
Volvo C40 vs. Volvo C30: Specs Comparison
Here's how their key specs stack up. Naturally, we've come a long way from 2013's offerings.
| Engine: | 87-kWh lithium-ion battery pack |
|---|---|
| Horsepower: | 402-hp @ 4,350 rpm |
| 0-60: | 4.7 seconds |
| Torque: | 486 lb-ft |
| Cargo Volume: | 17.3 cu. ft. + 0.7 cu. ft.(frunk). |
| Towing Capacity: | 2,000 lbs.2 |
| Payload: | 1,087 lbs. |
| Engine: | 2.5L I-5 Turbocharged (Electronic Fuel Injection) |
|---|---|
| Horsepower: | 227-hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| 0-60: | 6.2 seconds |
| Torque: | 236 lb-ft |
| Cargo Volume: | 15.3 cu. ft. |
| Towing Capacity: | 2,000 lbs.2 |
| Payload: | 851 lbs. |
The gas-powered specs are still impressive, but the Volvo C30 DRIVe Electric reveals just how remarkable the advancements are. Her battery pack was a 24 kWh unit that helped produce 111 horsepower, and the range was estimated to be around 93 miles. Looking at the Volvo C40 vs. Volvo C30 DRIVe Electric, those numbers have more than doubled in under a decade, as today, the Volvo C40 offers a WLTP-estimated range of 225 miles.1
Volvo C30 vs. Volvo C40: Dimensions Comparison
The Volvo C40 is a compact SUV, and the Volvo C30 is a compact hatchback. In the Volvo C30 vs. Volvo C40 comparison, the Volvo C40 is the larger of the two and offers five seats, whereas the Volvo C30 offers four seats. But both are larger inside than their dimensions suggest. With a focus on maximizing head and legroom, both vehicles combine great agility with all-encompassing roominess.
| # of Passengers: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length: | 174.2 inches |
| Width: | 72.9 inches |
| Height: | 62.2 inches |
| # of Passengers: | 4 |
|---|---|
| Length: | 167.4 inches |
| Width: | 70.2 inches |
| Height: | 57 inches |
Compare Volvo C40 and C30 Performance
In the Volvo C30 vs. Volvo C40 comparison, fun is standard with both vehicles. Starting with the Volvo C40, 402 all-electric horsepower is unleashed instantaneously. That output launches you from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.7 seconds, thanks in part to a standard dual-motor configuration. With intelligent engineering and an innovative chassis, the Volvo C40 handles beautifully to boot.
The Volvo C30 DRIVe Electric focused on proving the technology's potential rather than performance thrills, but the gas-powered Volvo C30 offered plenty of fun. You could have her with up to 227 horsepower, and 0-60 mph came in a still-impressive 6.2 seconds. Agility was rich, and this compact hatchback made for an entertaining city commuter.
Volvo C40 vs. C30: Trim Levels
In its final year of production, the Volvo C30 included Premier, Premier Plus, Platinum, and R-Design trim levels. The 2023 Volvo C40 is available in refreshing new trim levels that include the Core, Plus and Ultimate.
Reserve Your Volvo C40 Recharge
There is no winner in the Volvo C30 vs. Volvo C40 comparison; only insights into this latest model. If the Volvo C30 could speak, she'd tell you how proud she is of her modern descendant. Today, you can claim your ticket to the future by reserving a Volvo C40 of your own. Contact us to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Volvo C40 and C30?
The Volvo C30 is a compact hatchback that was discontinued in 2013, while the Volvo C40 is a compact all-electric SUV that's new to the market. The two vehicles couldn't be more different in most aspects but indeed do share similarities. Futuristic style is one similarity, and a focus on an agile size with spacious accommodations is another. With the Volvo C30 DRIVe Electric building the brand's electrified groundwork, the Volvo C40 may be vastly different, but she owes a lot to this discontinued hatchback.
Why was the Volvo C30 discontinued?
The Volvo C30 was a premium compact hatchback meant to offer a luxurious and spacious ride in an agile, fun-loving package. She was introduced in 2008, and her discontinuation in 2013 was mostly a matter of future plans. New models were on the horizon at the time, and the specialized Volvo C30 wasn't the right fit for this new lineup.
How much does a Volvo C40 cost?
The Volvo C40 Recharge is coming soon with an awe-inspiring amount of cutting-edge tech, thrilling performance, worry-free range, and luxurious appointments. While the model has not yet reached dealerships like ours, you can reserve yours today with a simple deposit. Get in touch today to discover the specific pricing of this new model.
1The figures are based on WLTP data obtained under specific testing conditions. The real-life driving range and energy consumption achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior and other external factors. Figures are preliminary, final vehicle certification pending.
2When properly equipped.
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