Volvo V50 Review
There are 3 petrol engines in the range - Starting with a 1.6, then to a 2.0 litre, and a firebreathing 2.5-litre turbo T5 (taken from the Focus ST) which produces 220bhp. There are also 3 different diesel units, a slightly underpowered but well priced 1.6, the mid range 2.0 unit taken from Peugeot, and Volvos evergreen 2.4 D5 unit, which feels very strong in the V50 due to the light weight compared to the larger applications. The new twin-clutch Powershift gearboxes are great additions, and similar to the Volkswagen DSG design, but are currently only available on the 2.0 diesel models. These engines are generally seen across the Volvo range, and are well proven, so there shouldn't be any reliability issues here.
The Volvo doesn't carry a budget price tag, but the solid build and quality materials along with decent standard equipment levels make up for it. The 'semi premium' Volvo badge also helps giving a little more exclusivity than more mainstream rivals, and meaning a better residual value come sale time. Special offers on the servicing are also well worth investigating.
The V50 is well equipped, starting with the Base 'S' variant which, although the entry into the range, still comes with electric windows, climate control, 16" alloys and central locking with deadlocks. Next up is the R Design Sport which adds a stylish and aggressive body kit, 1/2 leather sports seats, firmer sports suspension and 17" alloys with low profile tyres. SE and SE sport trims give full leather, auto headlights and wipers, an upgraded sound system, and electric memory seats.
Volvo based the V50 on the Focus platform, and this shows in the handling. body control is excellent in the corners, and the car remains composed at all speeds. suspension may seem a little firm compared to some of the larger Volvo offerings, so those trading down should try first. The Focus underpinnings also show in the wheelbase, as the V50 isn't that big a car, and while passenger head and legroom is more than comfortable, the boot size is acceptable rather than spacious, and those looking to lug larger loads would be better suited with the bigger V70.
Inside the car the seats are, like any Volvo - particularly comfy, and have plenty of shoulder and thigh support, and the steering wheel and driving position have a good deal of adjustment. The cabin shares the S40's design with the great looking 'floating' centre console, although some of the controls on this are a little fiddly compared to the usual large and chunky Volvo Fare.
Overall the Volvo V50 is a good ownership proposition, priced neatly between the mass market offerings, and the premium cars from Germany. Not the biggest inside or in the boot, but built to last, decent equipment levels and good handling.
