What Is It?
2005 Volvo V50
What's Special About It?
Interest in compact wagons continues to grow in the U.S. market. Most of the Japanese imports have something to offer in the under-$20,000 price bracket, while vehicles like the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Volkswagen Jetta are popular with consumers who can spend a bit more. Volvo's V40 wagon has always occupied a tough middle ground among small wagons — too expensive to appeal to most Jetta customers yet unable to match performance or luxury of the more elite Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series wagons. When engineering its successor, the V50, Volvo wisely put more emphasis on the driving experience and interior design while remaining true to its legendary reputation for safety.
A quick glance at the V50 tells you that this wagon has loads more style than its predecessor as well — sleek lines, a prominent nose and the availability of a very un-Volvo-like underbody kit and front and rear spoilers. A significant wheelbase stretch and a wider front and rear track give the wheels the "pushed to the corners" look, while increasing the car's appetite for enthusiastic driving around twists and turns. Said wheels can be up to 18 inches in diameter (and matched with low-profile performance tires), depending on the buyer's wishes. The standard suspension is designed to balance comfort and sport, according to Volvo, but more serious drivers can equip the wagon with a sport suspension that specifies firmer springs and a lowered stance. The steering uses an electrohydraulic setup.
Engine choices are identical to those of the S40 sedan introduced at last fall's Frankfurt International Motor Show. The base motor is a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline five-cylinder that produces a respectable 168 horsepower. Those looking for more juice underfoot can go with a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five that puts out 218 horsepower. Both engines make use of continuously variable valve timing to maximize power and efficiency. If you live in a snowy climate, you can opt for an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system with the bigger engine.
Inside, Volvo wanted the V50 to have a spacious, contemporary feel with user-friendly ergonomics and plenty of storage areas for passengers' belongings. Legible instrumentation and a space-saving center stack support that objective, as does subtle "theater-style" lighting that follows the driver's hands toward various controls to simplify nighttime adjustments. Both the front-passenger seat and the 60/40-split rear seats fold flat, yielding a continuous load floor for all manner of oddly sized cargo. Along with a carefully designed structure (that provides for optimal deformation according to crash severity), the V50 includes a full complement of side-impact and head curtain airbags. Among the available options are a Dolby Surround Pro Logic II stereo with a max output of 445 watts and built-in booster seats that make this compact wagon a practical choice for hauling around the kiddos.
What's Edmunds' Take?
Volvo only plans to sell 6,500 V50s annually in the U.S., but if everything comes together at the right price, this stylish and versatile wagon should be destined for a much more conspicuous existence than its predecessor. — Erin Riches
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