2010 Volvo C30: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Volvo C30 received a light equipment update rather than a redesign, led by standard Bluetooth hands-free phone capability on both trims. The engine, front-wheel-drive layout, and exterior design carried over.
About the 2010 Volvo C30
Single C30 generation (US model years 2008-2013), third US model year and final year before the 2011 mid-cycle exterior refresh.
Volvo positioned the C30 as its smallest, design-focused premium hatchback: a two-door, four-seat car pairing a distinctive glass tailgate and Scandinavian-style cabin with strong turbocharged performance and Volvo’s safety emphasis. Its appeal centered on nimble dimensions, daily comfort, supportive seating, and stable road manners rather than the hardest-edged hot-hatch experience. The unusual shape and smooth 227-hp five-cylinder engine were its clearest differences from rivals.
The T5 served as the luxury-oriented core model, with a 227-hp turbo five-cylinder engine, cruise control, an upgraded audio system, and a four-seat cabin with split-folding rear seats. The R-Design emphasized a sportier look through its body kit, spoilers, distinctive gauges, aluminum cabin trim, and leather-and-Flextech upholstery. Both trims retained the C30's glass tailgate and front-wheel-drive layout.
What changed, by category
2010 Volvo C30 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 5-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 20.2 cu-ft | 20.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.2 in | 34.2 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What was the biggest change to the 2010 Volvo C30?
The biggest change was standard Bluetooth hands-free phone capability on both 2010 C30 trims. Volvo also made several other convenience and cabin features standard.
Was the 2010 Volvo C30 redesigned?
No, the 2010 Volvo C30 was not redesigned. Its exterior, body structure, and basic mechanical setup carried over, with the exterior refresh arriving for 2011.
Did the 2010 Volvo C30 get a different engine?
No, the 2010 C30 kept the 227-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Both trims remained front-wheel drive, with manual and automatic transmissions represented in the lineup.
What equipment became standard on every 2010 Volvo C30?
Every 2010 Volvo C30 gained standard Bluetooth, a trip computer, an upgraded audio system, and two-position adjustable front head restraints. These were equipment upgrades rather than mechanical changes.
How did the 2010 C30 T5 and R-Design differ?
The T5 was the luxury-oriented core trim, while the R-Design used a sportier body kit, spoilers, distinctive gauges, aluminum cabin trim, and leather-and-Flextech upholstery. Both had the same 227-hp turbo engine and front-wheel drive.