11 Jan 08
Unfortunately, the downside of this punchy engine is its thirst. Regular visits to the Super Unleaded tanks at our local supermarket mean that any budding Spielberg could make a decent-length film from footage of our visits recorded on their CCTV. I'm still getting just over 24mpg, but I'm determined to get that figure up: it may involve some slipstreaming.
Oddly, I've found myself more aware of the car's width recently, especially driving around some impossibly narrow Devonshire lanes. The locals are all used to the pipe cleaner-like widths down there and come belting around the corners, with chickens and collie dogs hanging out of the sides for ballast. They're greeted by me wondering at what angle to tackle the 7ft high hedge.
However, the dark, winding lanes proved to be a good test for the Volvo's headlights, which are truly excellent. I think I can safely say I've never been in possession of a car that has lights with such projection and clarity. Even the thick West Country fog was no match for them.
I'm also still a fan of the C30's superb ride quality: there's enough firmness for it to feel lively, yet it's refined enough to iron out most road surfaces and provide a high degree of comfort. Drivers of Volvo estates might think it too firm, but I think it's an indication that the time is ripe for the Swedish company to become a producer of sporty cars and not just the safe family wagons it has built its reputation on over recent years.
