Overview & Reviews

In Volvo nomenclature, "V" stands for "versatile." Versatility is great, but as the departed V40 wagon proved, it says nothing about excitement -- not when the other elements in the mix are drab sheet metal and mediocre performance. The Volvo V50 was conceived to replace this less-than-memorable small wagon, and it improves on the formula by offering more style and the opportunity for greater performance.

The compact V50 has been dubbed a "sport wagon" by Volvo. With its bulging fenders and grooved hood, this Volvo looks, dare we say, ripped. And it lives up to the "sport" part through its sharp handling and sprightly acceleration -- as long as you opt for the turbocharged engine, that is. With that turbo under its hood, the Volvo V50 feels nimble and brisk. Alas, the V50's normally aspirated base engine is far less impressive.

Still, with either power plant, this upscale small wagon is enjoyable on the inside, offering a design that's as ergonomically correct as it is distinctive. There are also plenty of safety features, with a lineup that includes side-impact and head curtain airbags, active head restraints and optional built-in booster seats for children. Combine all this with the utility offered by the available all-wheel drive, and Volvo's V50 distinguishes itself as providing plenty of "V" without being boring to drive or own.

Current Volvo V50
The Volvo V50 compact sport wagon shares its basic platform with the S40 sedan and C30 hatchback. V50 buyers have their choice of two trim levels -- base T5 and sportier T5 R-Design. Both V50s boast a turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine that sends a healthy 227 horsepower to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic with manual-shift capability.

The T5's standard equipment includes alloy wheels, a power driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a six-CD changer and an iPod interface. The T5 R-Design adds sporty exterior and interior styling cues, a sport-tuned suspension, a power sunroof, heated front seats and partial leather upholstery. The options list includes active bi-xenon headlights, a navigation system, heated seats and a blind-spot warning system.

Volvo's Scandinavian roots are elegantly reflected in the V50's cabin. The feel is open and clean, highlighted by an unusually thin center stack. In true Scandinavian fashion, function goes hand in hand with form -- for the most part. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat helps the car easily digest oversize items; cargo capacity is competitive with that of others in this class, and controls are easily navigable. Materials quality is also quite good. The one negative here is that the wagon's minimalist aesthetic also results in a minimal number of storage areas within its cabin.

Used Volvo V50 Models
The Volvo V50 debuted for the 2005 model year, and there have been just a few changes along the way. Initially, it was available in base 2.4i (168 hp) and turbocharged T5 (218 hp) trims. Both were front-wheel drive, with the T5 also available with all-wheel drive. The T5's power output was boosted to 227 hp for 2008. A six-speed manual transmission for the T5 was sporadically available, depending on model year and drive configuration.

Other changes include standard stability control on all V50s for 2007, and upgraded audio components and the optional blind-spot monitor for '08. Also, prior to 2009, V50s had considerably less standard equipment and commensurately lower base prices. For 2011, the base 2.4i was dropped, as were the availability of a manual transmission and all-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

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  Why is this car so uncommon? - 2007 Volvo V50
  By Barbarella - December 21 - 8:56 am

  Simply put, I love this car. I live in the mountains of colorado, and this car is tons of fun to drive on twisty mountain roads. I am of the belief that you do not need a SUV just to live in the mountains (unlike everyone that lives around me). The AWD is all you need to survive up here. The interior design is simple and intuitive, the performance is great, the mileage is decent (considering the way I like to zoom around), the cargo space is great, and it looks awesome. I seriously dont understand why this car isnt more popular, but then again, I dont understand why everyone around me drives these monstrous SUVs. Arent they driving on the same roads I am?

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  Review of Volvo V50 T5 AWD automatic - 2005 Volvo V50
  By firsttimevolvoowner - October 2 - 8:40 am

  Overall, I am pleased with this car and would recommend it to others. However, there are both pros and cons. Let me list them and you can decide for yourself. 1) The sports-tuned suspension on the T5 AWD is a bit harsh/jarring over bumps. I test drove the FWD version and did not notice this. 2) mild vibration from passenger side seat over bumps. Not noticed when someone is sitting in the seat. 3) narrow/deep glove box and small door pockets.

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  a good performance wagon - 2006 Volvo V50
  By Peter - September 22 - 12:26 am

  I have to replace a Volvo 240DL wagon and BMW328i. V50 has a nice combination of the virtues of both. It is big enough as a family wagon and is sporty enough to be fun to drive (the 240DL drives like a truck). It has all the electronic and computer gadgets of my 1999 328i, although its acceleration and handling are not as good. I have always driven a manual transmission so I was a bit skeptical about the Geartronics. It turns out to be quite acceptable. I can use it to slow down the car. When going up to Lake Tahoe I can down-shift to gain more power. The mileage after 6K miles is a decent 25 mpg, better than the BMW. I will be quite happy if it turns out to be more reliable than the BMW.

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  so glad i got rid of my toyota ! - 2006 Volvo V50
  By jj - September 7 - 11:00 am

  got rid of a 4runner 2005 the best day of my life. toyotas have great reputation on the engine reliability but someone forgot style and comfort. the v50 is amazing i want to drive. i want to take a hard turn and the geartronic is so much fun to drive. the back seat might be a little small for big passengers, but oh well that is the only bad thing and not really a problem.

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  Great Car - 2005 Volvo V50
  By J Patent - August 20 - 8:03 pm

  We have put just over 1500 miles on the car and it is great! We got all the options except the DSC (in hindsight, I would have purchased this) and navigation system. Used to have an Audi A4 and this car is much better. The seats are more comfortable, the stereo is better and easier to use, and it performs just as well if not better.

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  I love my Volvo - 2005 Volvo V50
  By oukieguy77 - July 19 - 10:00 am

  I love my Volvo V50. What more can I say? Its safe, fun to drive, and a great buy.

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  A good move - 2008 Volvo V50
  By Dusko - June 7 - 6:00 pm

  After 5 E-class Mercedes this was a big step but Im not disappointed. For 50% of the price I have as much fun driving this car and I dont have to fear being stranded because of quality problems with electronics. The ride is firm but not harsh, a lot like a 3 series BMW. Ergonomics are a bit quirky and I could use more storage space up front. Fuel economy is better than my E500, but not that much! I miss the Bluetooth for the phone. Overall, no regrets

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  Great Car ! - 2007 Volvo V50
  By Frank - May 28 - 1:46 pm

  Had the car for almost a year now and I love it more now than when I bought it. It has the ride of a Town Car and the fuel mileage is great (26-31). I bought the premium sound system and several upgrades and havent been disapointed one bit. Its a solid car and gives a lot of bang for the buck!

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  Rust Proofing - 2007 Volvo V50
  By Kathy - February 27 - 3:36 am

  My Second Volvo New , My Forth New Car ! Insurance Rep , Claims Safe , Safe, Safe That says It all ! Easy to get into and out of Traffic !

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  Quality Assurance Inspector 18 Yrs. - 2007 Volvo V50
  By Dan - February 20 - 8:46 pm

  The Is My Seventh Volvo, Most of My Volvo were Used , But always got Good Resale and Trade In. I bought My First One as a College Student on Easter Break in Fla. 122S Cream White with Red and White Interior 4 Sp ,144 , 244 , 245, 242 GL 4 sp-elec. OD - New ,Big Brakes 2001 V40 New , K&N , Cool Stat ,Drilled Rotors Speical Pads, NGK Iridiums 2007 V50 New, K&N, Still Breakin In Motor ! Seems Like It is Rally Sport Set Up ! The Aero-Dynmaics Could be a little Better - Didnt - get that Opt. Package 6 Spd is a Blast,Makes Smiles per Mile ! I Wish Volvo Would do Better Aero under Trunk Rear Aera , allowing a Spot Spoiler Lower Air Exit. All in all The Volvo is Great. Danny