2012 Volvo C30

Other brands have caught up, but Volvo maintains its deserved reputation for safety innovation and quality fit and finish. Volvos also stand out for its attractive exterior styling and for having some of the nicest interiors in the industry, with especially comfortable seats. The brand’s XC line of SUVs range from compact and two-row to midsized and three-row. Volvo also sells sedans and station wagons, along with several EVs, ranging from small to large. Most of Volvo’s new cars scored average or below-average in our reliability rankings, and the infotainment systems on many models are less intuitive than what you’ll find in competitors’ cars. Our testers have also found that Volvos aren’t great at absorbing bumps, and have average fuel economy. Among used Volvos, some models have proven to be reliable enough to earn our recommendation.

The Volvo C30 is a pleasant two-door, four-seat hatchback, but it isn't really engaging to drive. Power comes from a hardworking turbocharged 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that delivered a reasonable 25 mpg overall. The manual transmission shifts easily and smoothly. The ride is compliant, and the cabin is relatively quiet. We found the C30 to be neither as agile nor as exciting as competitors. However, passengers will find a relatively comfortable interior that works well even on the longest trips. It also came equipped with standard curtain airbags, but Volvo's blind-spot warning system was optional. Model year 2013 was the final outing for the C30.