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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  Pretty good, but not great. - 2005 Volvo V50
  By misliss - June 13 - 12:16 am

  I am on my second V50. The first I had for a month, and it was in the shop 3 weeks of that month. After much complaining, I got Volvo to give me a new one, with more features. I have leased my car for 3 years and am about to buy it. It works pretty well for my life as a busy mom of one. But, the sunroof leaks, the interior lights sometimes work, and I have gone through more tires than I would like to admit. The car gets great gas mileage, drives nicely, has enough zip to keep me going, and is great on turns.

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  Beautiful Car...Improve Reliability - 2006 Volvo V50
  By Beautiful Car - June 8 - 1:16 am

  I have had the car about 1 year. It is a beautiful car in Passion Red and well equipped. It is fun to drive with plenty of power, excellent handling, comfortable ride and is quiet. The biggest issue is an intermittent electrical problem. It has been in for repair over 4 times for more than 20 days with issues with the airbag sensor, door locks, windows, A/C, etc. We have another Volvo (2006 S40 T5) that has been problem free. Weve also owned a Volvo XC90 (2004) that was very reliable. We will continue to own Volvos as we like the cars but this particular car (V50)has been a little disappointing. I will say, however, that the dealer has been very diligent in trying to find the problem.

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  V50 WOW! - 2005 Volvo V50
  By Bklyn38 - April 23 - 1:46 pm

  I am amazed at the quick & comfortable performance. This is my 5th Volvo and by far the best. Runs on regular gas with 23.5 City and 32 hway milage when driven hard. Exceptionally reliable. No problems. Catches stares and compliments even in Manhattan!

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  Electronics on this car is a nightmare! - 2005 Volvo V50
  By V 50 is a haeadache - April 1 - 1:46 am

  We are soccer parents so are on the road almost every weekend shuttling kids from event to another. We need a spacious and reliable car. The first 2 years were ok. The last 2 years have been a headache. The car is in the shop every month! The electronic system is always failing, with all kinds all scary warning signs: Engine Failure, Break Failure, Transmissions failure! This week was the worst. The immobilizer warning comes on and the key is stuck at position 1. Had to get it towed to the shop. Volvo has not been able to fix the problem after so many software upgrades. If you do not want to find yourself stranded 200 miles away from home, do not buy this car

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  Its a looker...for a wagon! - 2009 Volvo V50
  By Joel in Germany - March 23 - 3:23 am

  I drive it on the Autobahn in Europe, my normal speed...100 - 115 mph. It has plenty of power, comfortable seating, plenty of cargo room...it is what it is...a sportswagon. I purchased a few extras for it that you cant get in the states to include the color. Great experience with Volvo! Nice car! It replaced my 2002 Mini Cooper. I hope to have this Volvo for years to come!

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  We Love It! - 2005 Volvo V50
  By Natty Sargent - February 2 - 2:56 pm

  Looked at BMW 3-Series, Audi A4 and nobody could touch the Volvo value. The Audi dealership admitted that without Fords support, they just couldnt compete on price. The performance speaks for itself if you trust the reviews and specs. We bought the 2005 V50 T5 in lieu of the straight 2.4 only because of review comments. We drove both and really couldnt tell the difference when driving like a sane person. The additional options that we purchased were worth it. We got everything but the navigation pkg. and back up sensors.

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  Greatsporty compact wagon - 2007 Volvo V50
  By igioman - January 20 - 10:13 am

  This car, so far, has impressed us with the acceleration, comfort and overall good looks. We got rid of a SUV, and this is a great alternative. In Southern Italy where we live, it isnt uncommon for people to drive quite fast(80-100 MPH/130-160 KPH) yet this car keeps up with them all. The styling is top notch and is the best in its class. We bought the V50 2.4, Grey metallic with dark beige interior premium sound with 12 speakers. Wow!!. Awesome! We have 3 daughters ages 13, 6 and 1 year and they all fit well even with a car seat.We looked at several other Euro wagons and this Volvo tops them all.

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  pricey but nice - 2009 Volvo V50
  By crs - December 30 - 3:16 pm

  V50 R, is my 4th Volvo (still have XC90 and C30, recently traded xc70) First impression is the V5o isnt up t the high standard of the others. I really got the feeling that I was in a rebadged Focus. Funny thing is though this car can grow you on. The comforts are subtle. Performance is great, handling is top notch( unless you hit bumps then you feel the sport suspension) For city driving with the kids it is perfect, neither too small( C30, nor too big XC90) Volvo has switched to this clunky menu/ enter / select / exit audio and phone control system which stinks. Huge distraction which ought not be tried while driving. Odd development for a car that promotes safety. The previous was better

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  Love it! - 2005 Volvo V50
  By toytrader - December 12 - 6:26 am

  Ive had my V50 for 3 wks and I am thrilled. Previous car, a Taurus wagon. I wanted a wagon again, but a slightly smaller one, yet with top safety and luxury features. On Edmunds I found the V50. We live on a small street with a tight driveway, and needed a car that could fit and turn in small spaces, yet be large enough to feel safe and comfortable during family vacations [two of us plus one teenager]. Back seat is not super roomy, but fine for our needs. I am enjoying the pep of the T5 engine [auto/FWD], and it certainly is fun to drive. I do notice a slight lag [is this "Turbo lag"?] when accelerating from a stop. Still, minor problem with all the positives. A beautiful, substantial car.

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  Great Car, Great Value - 2005 Volvo V50
  By keiths66 - November 29 - 7:13 am

  I love this car. Roomier than you would think. With the Premium Package and Sports Package it is very nicely equipped. You can feel the quality and saftey features of the car. Its crisp handling and european ride were exactly what we were looking for. We replaced an SUV (Land Rover Discovery) and I dont miss it at all, especially the hefty weekly gas bill!