The new 2008 Volvo C30 may just be the car to change the prejudice of the American public against hatchbacks. With an MSRP expected to come in between $22,700 and $25,700, this four-seater (buckets standard) will offer both speed and style in the highly functional form (already a staple in Europe) that is a much-needed departure from the now ubiquitous SUV.

The Volvo engineers gave the C30 an agressively sloping rear profile that is a departure from the conventional Volvo look. The result is nicely sports car-like, an image supported by the C 30's 2.5-liter Inline-5 engine producing 218 horsepower (with a six speed manual, five speed automatic available.) Expect to break zero to sixty in roughly 6.2 seconds with an estimated fuel economy of 22 around town and 30 out on the road.

The 2008 Volvo C30 is intended to go head-to-head with the enormously popular Mini Cooper, the targeted audience being young city dwellers who want a good looking ride but need some flexibility for hauling in a small, easily parkable package. Add to those attractive features the high Volvo standard for safety and the C30 is going to be a popular option for young families.