2010 Volvo V50
- 2009 Volvo V50
- Used Volvo V50
in Affordable Full Size Wagons
Based on analysis of 36 V50 reviews and test drives.
Volvo V50 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Volvo V50 ranks 5 out of 7 Affordable Full Size Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo V50, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Volvo V50 is stylish, inside and out, but reviews are mixed on if it represents a good value.
Volvo's reputation is largely built on safe, standard-issue automobiles. But with the V50, they've added a fun and dynamic wagon to their lineup. With its sleek exterior lines and Scandinavian minimalist interior design, the V50 is proof that safe can be sexy. Edmunds says, "If you don't mind settling for the base engine, the 2009 Volvo V50 is a stylish and relatively affordable alternative to German sport wagons." However, opting for the higher T5 trim knocks the price up considerably.
The V50 made its debut in 2004 for the 2005 model year. It was freshened in 2008 with changes including revised exterior and interior lines, additional storage space, and nine additional horses for the T5's turbocharged engine. The 2010 model only receives minor changes, including a standard six-speed manual transmission on the T5 trim and a small bump in gas mileage. The V50 shares a platform and many other components with the Volvo S40 sedan. In fact, the two cars are virtually identical from the nose to the second-row seat.
Although the V50 has first-class looks and good performance, other wagons offer more passenger and cargo space. A high price on the sporty T5 trim also calls into question on whether the V50 is a good value.
The V50 comes in two trim levels: the 2.4i, which uses a 2.4 liter inline five-cylinder engine, and the T5 AWD R-Design, which uses a turbocharged inline five-cylinder.
- "The 2010 Volvo V50 is a stylish, spacious and fuel-efficient alternative to compact luxury crossovers. However, it's expensive, so finding a great deal is a must."-- Edmunds
- "The Volvo V50 isn't quite as sporty as the BMW 3 Series Wagon, but it's nimble, stylish, safe, and considerably cheaper." -- Forbes
V50 Performance - 7.4 (Good)
The 2010 Volvo V50 is a fun drive in a class that doesn't put much of a premium on performance. The V50 handles well, though some feel the ride is a bit on the harsh side. Read More
V50 Exterior - 9.3 (Excellent)
Reviewers applaud the V50's looks, a noted departure from the boxy Volvos of yesteryear. Read More
V50 Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The interior of the V50 is a bit of a squeeze, but compensates with style and comfort. Edmunds says, "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." Read More
V50 Safety - NA
The Volvo V50 has yet to be crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry. However, it does feature a wide array of active and passive safety equipment -- including Dynamic Stability Control and side curtain air bags. Read More
V50 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 Volvo V50 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The V50 comes equipped with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Read More
