Will my running costs increase if I trade in my 1.6-litre Volvo C30 for a 2-litre version?

I currently own a 2009 Volvo C30 Drive SE Sport 1.6-litre diesel on a three year plan with 9000 miles per annum, which finishes soon. I am considering replacing it with a new C30 SE Lux which has a 2-litre petrol engine with 17-inch wheels and a number of useful extras. I realise that fuel economy will not be as good and that road tax will be £215 a year, however I will be getting an uprated car with a 20 per cent discount and a good monthly finance saving. I would appreciate your comments.

Asked on 6 September 2012 by AP, Bristol

Answered by Honest John
The running costs of the 2.0-litre petrol against the 1.6-litre diesel will be about £840 more a year. But you should also consider a Volkswagen Scirocco, a Renault Megane Coupe, a Vauxhall Astra GTC and a Hyundai Veloster: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/hyundai/hyundai-ve.../
Similar questions
We have decided to purchase a year old Volvo V40. It's a second car that would have be mostly short journeys and twice weekly 40 mile commutes, doing about 10,000 miles per year. The debate we are currently...
I had a 2005 BMW 3 Series 2.0-litre automatic as my main car in 2010 and I remember it being tax bracket J (190g/km),150PS, and on paper showing 35mpg on the combined cycle. I'm looking to buy a used 2007...
I have a 4-year-old sports utility, a Nissan Murano, but running it is breaking the bank as it only does 20 miles to the gallon and road tax is a mind-boggling £445 a year. The size is perfect to the inch....
Related models
Fine riding and handling and stunning looking coupe just £400 more than the five-door hatch. Sporty 220GT launched February 2015 to sit below RenaultSport Megane.
Good to drive, with strong performance and keen handling, improved from 2014 with up-to-date equipment.
Really good looking coupe, on theme of 1800ES and 480. Best with 2.5 turbo engine and 17-inch wheels. Outstanding handling. 2.0D Powershift auto works well.
Stable and enjoyable handling. Good level of standard equipment. Distinctive styling.
Punchy Turbo version. Distinctive looks. Decent specification.
 

Ask Honest John

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 10% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ10 to save on an ALA policy

See offer