Volvo has launched its most exciting car for years at this week's Paris motor show. Set to go on sale early 2007, the Swedish manufacturer has released full pricing and specification for a sporty hatch that's set to go head-to-head with Audi's A3 and the BMW 1-series.

Thankfully for the production C30, little has changed and the 3dr Volvo keeps its glass tailgate that would normally have been dropped for production.

Drivers will have the choice of five petrol and three diesel engines to choose from, from the tax-efficient 109PS 1.6 diesel, that attracts the lowest 18% BIK, to a powerful 220PS turbocharged 2.5 petrol that offers a sub-seven second dash to 60.

Driving dynamics should be near the top of the class, since it owes its underpinnings to the talented Focus.

Hoping to attract a young affluent driver, the four-seat Volvo will be available in four trims (S, SE, SE Sport and SE Lux), with prices beginning at £14,750 for the 1.6S stretching to £22,995 for the T5 in either SE Sport or SE Lux.

Those young blades won't be wanting for toys. Even base S models receive climate control, power mirrors, anti-skid and six airbags. Paying £1500 upgrades to the SE model, which adds bigger 17-inch alloys, aluminium inserts, audio controls on the steering wheel and cruise. A final £1500 over the SE gains the SE Sport or SE Lux packs. The 'Lux' brings all the leather you'd expect, while the 'Sport' tag brings the biggest 18-inch wheels, body kit and more aluminium.

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