Volvo has added the Powershift auto gearbox to the C30 as a rival to VW‘s clever DSG system.
As we’ve already seen in the Ford Focus (sister car to the C30) the Powershift system works like an automatic by doing away with the clutch pedal, but without the power-sapping and fuel consuming downsides.
In full auto mode it’s nearly as good as the best autos, although at a constant 30mph it ‘hunts’ for the right gear, particularly if you’re going uphill, just as it does in the Focus.
The main difference is that Volvo charges £1400 over the manual, £200 more than Ford does in the Focus. The C30 Powershift’s fuel and CO2 figures are little affected with CO2 a BIK band higher at 22% and mpg 1.7 worse at an average of 47.9. Overall running costs come in at 46.8p per mile.
Verdict: Impressive gearbox, shame about the premium pricing
