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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  It has served me well. - 2005 Volvo V50
  By PD - July 24 - 11:50 am

  I have driven the car 58,000 miles now. Initially, I did have a cold start issue when new. But since that problem was fixed in the 1st year (software update), the car has worked perfectly for me. I own the turbo (T5 AWD) and it is a blast to drive. Handling is superb. Great acceleration and pick-up. I opted for the upgraded stereo which is truly spectacular - great crisp highs and deep lows. Edmunds also rated it very highly. Car/road/wind noise suppression is good. But higher end luxury cars will do better.

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Volvo V50
  By Gryphon - June 18 - 11:13 pm

  Went to by a "SMART" car. Ended up with my Volvo. For the mileage I put on it was the vehicle for me. Lots of room for my clubs, skis, mountain bike and weimariner.

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  I love wagons - 2008 Volvo V50
  By volleygasm - April 23 - 10:53 am

  I am a wagon lover and living in the US severely limits your choices. I purchased this V50 as a certified preowned from a local dealer. The dealership is not my favorite but the price was pretty good and the certified warranty added extra safety. The ride in dry conditions is good, the cabin is very quite, the sound system is very good although my car lacks the bluetooth and ipod controls which would have been a nice add-on. I guess thats the price you pay for buying used. The one thing I do not like about this car is the winter handling. I did not purchase the AWD and coming from Subaru this is a HUGE disappointment.

• 

  near-volvo - 2005 Volvo V50
  By Tom Rasmussen - April 12 - 1:36 am

  Great car, and was a toss-up between this and XC70. (Other car in garage is XC90.) I like the size, drivability, powertrain, futuristic design. Haldex AWD is second to none. Although drive-feel and braking are excellent, they are not characteristically "Volvo-like". A/T does not shift as smooth as other Volvos with Aisin Warner unit, seats do no feel as good as 60, 70, 80 or 90 series. Wish SAT radio was available. Unique key system is over-engineered, and wish european keyless sys was available. Overall, I love this car, very unique, gets many looks and compliments. Next time when lease is up, Im hoping for and "R" version, either V50 or V70.

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  Mines Fine! - 2005 Volvo V50
  By PCB - March 29 - 5:30 am

  Ive had my car for 60,000 miles now. It has had one or two minor things go wrong with it (needed new brakes and rotors under warranty), but the dealer has taken care of them. It is a _gas_ to drive- lots of power, responds well. It is just so much fun. The wagon lets me take my dogs, go to the hardware store, etc. If you want a car with lots of room, then get a bigger one.. but this is fine for me. I am still in love with this car-- by far the best Ive ever owned.

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  Great Buy - 2005 Volvo V50
  By Jon M. - February 7 - 8:50 pm

  After months of research, I decided this sports wagon was the best value for me. Though I was originally in the market for an SUV, I concluded I would lose at the pump in the end. The direction of gas prices has only validated my decision. The Volvo is a perfect fit. Its sporty (I love the autostick), very comfortable (leather), sharp interior and exterior, and it has plenty of space for trips to the hardware store. I recommend it.

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  My First New Car - 2007 Volvo V50
  By jeff - January 28 - 8:00 am

  This is my first new car, but second Volvo. As you can see, i have put many miles in the comfortable drivers seat. I dread the end of the warranty period. I have traveled to Florida with my two children in car seats, Vermont with my three children in car seats. Plenty of room for a family with reasonable needs. Turbo is a must. I really wanted a sport wagon, having quit the SUV era before it even became popular. Familiar with Volvos saftey and reliability and overall this car has perfomed. Euro styling, roof rails, turbo, interior cargo space, all were items that I wanted and received in a vehicle.

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  Dont Purchase - Look at Competition - 2005 Volvo V50
  By PBW - January 27 - 7:43 pm

  Wifes car. Bought to replace V40. OK power. Expensive maintenance after warranty. Inside cramped for adults. Better cars out there unless you are looking for the Volvo brand and think it is still the safest - which it is not- good marketing campaign...

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  Fun Turbo Wagon - 2005 Volvo V50
  By grochef - January 20 - 10:03 am

  Volvo did a great job of designing this car. The front end gives the V50 an aggressive look and the large rear tail lights set it off from the crowd. Standard features are generous and the list of Options provide the ability to create a dream. I purchased the car using the Overseas Program. I would recommend that anyone opting for that program does not purchase any accessories from Sweden. The prices are twice what they are in the US - even though they tell you it is a "Special Price". Other than that, the trip to London, Sweden and Norway was great fun.

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  Volvo made it again! - 2005 Volvo V50
  By henrik - December 30 - 10:36 am

  A great car from Volco again! Now they have added some new things to their basket; fun and design now joins reliability and safety. Some minor flaws in the exterior design...otherwise; buy it!