Tempted by a Volvo C30 - good idea? | Ask Honest John

Tempted by a Volvo C30 - good idea?

I'm tempted by the Volvo C30 2.0D Powershift accepting that every few years I might have a big-ish bill with the DPF. Are the engine and transmission reasonably trouble-free otherwise?
Alternatively is there anything else like it that you'd recommend? I'm not that keen on the 1 Series and I'd have an A3 if it weren't for the DSG issue.

Asked on 28 December 2012 by Agog

Answered by Honest John

Ford/PSA's 2.0TDCI/HDI has been quite reliable. Certainly better than VAG's 2.0TDIs. Maybe a Honda Civic 1.8iES or SE with the 5-speed torque converter auto (not the i-shift).

Tags: buying

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

Similar questions

I'm tempted by a little Volvo

I'm tempted by a Volvo C30 or an S40 to do 8000-10,000 miles per year. But it has to be automatic. Pity they don't do a 1.8 or 2.0 petrol auto. The choice seems to narrow down to a 2.0D Powershitft or...

What economical car?

I have just moved house and we are using our cars differently. I need to replace out city runaround, an 03 plate fiesta with 150k on the clock with a decent motorway car. I need it to be economical, so...

Can we get a discount on a new model?

I am very tempted to buy a new Volvo 1.6l 150bhp V40 when they hit the showrooms in the near future. Is it feasible to ask for a discount on this new model and, if so, how much? I would be trading in...

Related models

Volvo C30 (2006 - 2009)

Really good looking coupe, on theme of 1800ES and 480. Best with 2.5 turbo engine and 17-inch wheels. Outstanding handling. 2.0D Powershift auto works well.