The new sporty Volvo C30 - the smallest in Volvo's model range - was launched during an outdoor event at the Valletta Waterfront on Wednesday.

"The compact format has not prevented Volvo from integrating much of what is best in the larger Volvo cars," said Gasan Enterprises managing director David Gasan.

The Volvo C30 is described as nimble, even in limited space. Otherwise, it is built according to the same principles as the other Volvo cars. It also offers comfortable and flexible interior space, with a big-car feel and place for four adults, the makers say.

Mr Gasan said that to make it easier for the driver to detect other vehicles in the blind spot at the side of the car, the Volvo C30 can be fitted with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), which uses cameras mounted in the side door mirrors.

In line with its duty as a car importer to contribute towards offsetting carbon emissions by cars, Mr Gasan said that Gasan Enterprises recently joined international car manufacturers to make motoring greener. The company has initiated a campaign, in association with 34U, whereby it is pledging to plant a tree for every car sold, planting trees being a popular way to offset carbon.