VOLVO'S TRIO OF HIGH-MILEAGE DIESELS - DRIVe

Volvo customers in thirteen European markets will be able to claim financial incentives because of the low emissions exhaled by the new Volvo C30 DRIVe, Volvo S40 DRIVe, and Volvo V50 DRIVe. 

For those of us in North America who put fuel efficiency way in front of emissions, the 115 (C30) or 118 g/km(S40/V50) ratings achieved by these Volvos isn't striking. Their fuel economy, measured in US miles per gallon, would enthuse many who are tired of both frequent and expensive fill-ups.

Due to extensive work on aerodynamics, where new wheels and a lowered stance help; as well as low-rolling resistance tires and an altered transmission, the C30 DRIVe should average about 53mpg with the S40 and V50 at about 52mpg. (Most, if not all, of the changes are mentioned at the bottom of this post.) Regular versions of the Volvo small cars equipped with the 1.6L diesel (108 horsepower, 178 lb-ft of torque) are rated at the equivalent of 48 miles per gallon. If you're concerned that a jump of "just" five miles per gallon from any already efficient car isn't good enough, remember the emissions.

Dropping the CO2 below 120g/km saves European customers major coin. Volvo expects 20,000 customers across Europe to choose one of these DRIVe models next year. They'll need between €150 to €450 extra to choose the ultra-efficient cars. Keep in mind the obvious nature of these cars. It looks like Volvo is doing somehting about the environment, efficiency, emissions, and economy. That'll help in the future.

Chassis height reduced by about 10 mm. Same comfort setting as the standard car. Spoiler at the front, the same as on the T5 (S40 and V50). Covered radiator grille. Behind the characteristic Volvo grille there is a wind-deflecting panel that provides better aerodynamics inside the engine compartment. Wind deflectors in front of the front wheels. Aerodynamically optimised wheels of special design. Available in 15 and 16 inch sizes. Underbody panels for more efficient airflow under the car as well (C30). Unique rear spoiler (C30). The Volvo S40 DRIVe has the same spoiler as the T5 and D5 models. New rear bumper (C30). All the cars are equipped as standard with a new generation of Michelin tyres with low rolling resistance. Available for 15 and 16 inch wheels. Gearbox with altered ratios for third, fourth and fifth gears. Optimised engine cooling, engine management and power steering. New transmission oil with lower friction. Gearchange indicator in the information display.